Illustration: Chen Xia/GT

Cultural exchange has been a cornerstone of the enduring friendship and cooperation between China and the Arab states. This rich history of interaction, dating back to the Han Dynasty (206BC-AD220), has fostered mutual respect and understanding, strengthening the bonds between the great civilizations.

The origins of China-Arab relations can be traced back to the Emperor Wu of the Han Dynasty, when Chinese envoy Zhang Qian began his expedition to the Western Regions and opened a trade route that later became the Silk Road.

The establishment of the Silk Road facilitated significant trade and cultural exchanges between China and Arab countries. The impact of China's four great inventions - the compass, gunpowder, paper and printing - on Arab civilization was profound, while Chinese language and literature found their way into Arab lands. 

Conversely, Arab advancements in astronomy and calendar systems significantly influenced Chinese society, contributing to its progress and cultural development. Arab merchants who settled in China also played a role in promoting advancements in the natural and social sciences.

Over two millennia of cooperation has led to comprehensive partnerships across various fields. The China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has also provided significant opportunities for cultural exchange and mutual learning between China and the Arab world in the new era.

Chinese President Xi Jinping recently replied to letters from student representatives of the "Hundred Schools Project" for Chinese language education in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), encouraging them to master the language and get to know China, and contribute to promoting friendship between the two countries. To date, there are 171 schools in the UAE offering Chinese language courses, with 71,000 students learning Chinese. 

Both Chinese and Arab civilizations are treasures of human heritage, having made indelible contributions to social progress.

The Inter-Civilizational Communication and Global Development Forum held in Beijing in November 2023, including a sub-forum on China-Arab civilization exchange and modernization development, brought together dignitaries, scholars, and students from over 10 Arab countries and China. The sub-forum underscored the historical significance of China-Arab cooperation and explored ways to enhance cultural exchange, build a China-Arab community with a shared future, and contribute to global peace and development.

The translation and publication of classical and contemporary literary works between China and Arab countries have been effective in promoting cultural exchange and mutual understanding.

The Chinese Writers Association once noted that since the 21st century, the translation and publication of Arab literature in China has entered a new era. Nearly 100 contemporary Arab literary works, including those of Syrian poet Adonis and Egyptian Nobel laureate Naguib Mahfouz, have been published in China, gaining popularity among Chinese readers.

Similarly, the translation and publication of contemporary Chinese literature in Arab countries has progressed rapidly, especially over the past decade. Works by Lu Wenfu, Tie Ning and Liu Zhenyun have captivated Arab readers. Chinese writers and publishers have actively participated in international book fairs in Arab countries, hosting diverse literary events and increasing the visibility of Chinese literature. For example, the 33rd Abu Dhabi International Book Fair (ADIBF 2024) that ran from April 29 to May 5 witnessed a notable Chinese cultural presence. Across its 465-square-meter pavilion at the fair, China participated with 70 guests, including publishers, writers, translators, and officials representing 80 Chinese publishing houses. Officials from the Arab Publishers' Association emphasized the close cultural ties between China and the Arab world, expressing hope for further collaboration in the publishing industry.

At the 6th China-Arab States Broadcasting and Television Cooperation Forum held in Hangzhou, East China's Zhejiang Province, in December 2023, both sides explored joint production and promotion of co-produced works. Notable among these was In the Footsteps of Travelers (The Road to China), a documentary series co-produced by Zhejiang Television and Qatar Television that showcased a multifaceted China to Arab audiences.

Sports also serve as a bridge for cultural exchange. In January, the visit of Cristiano Ronaldo and his club Al Nassr of Saudi Arabia to Shenzhen as well as another potential trip to China this August highlight the growing sports collaboration between China and Saudi Arabia, serving as a model for broader Belt and Road cooperation in sports.

In conclusion, cultural exchange is the essence of emotional, intellectual, and wisdom-sharing among people from different countries, ethnicities, and regions. The cultural ties between China and the Arab world will significantly advance the building of a global community with a shared future in the new era.

The author is a reporter with the Global Times. life@globaltimes.com.cn