Photo: Shan Jie/GT

A seminar on cultural diplomacy took place on Saturday in Beijing, highlighting Asia’s practices and achievements in cultural exchanges globally over recent years.

The day-long event at the Echo Event Space in Beijing's 751 Design Park, was part of a global series on cultural diplomacy networks led by Dr Zhu Biyun, Lecturer in Cultural Policy and Governance and Postgraduate Studies Director, from the University of Manchester. It was aimed at shifting international focus towards the East. It explored the unique aspects of Asian cultural diplomacy, addressing the challenges of managing cultural relations.

This project is supported by the UK Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC), and this Beijing event was co-organized by the School of Government at the University of International Business and Economics.

During the first panel, Dr Lim Kok Wai Benny, director of MA in Cultural Management at the Chinese University of Hong Kong, discussed the challenge of balancing local cultural expressions with the need to align with national interests and diplomatic strategies, while mentioning the Hong Kong government’s efforts to move away from longstanding colonial narratives. This balance is crucial for defining Hong Kong's role within the larger geopolitical context.

Dr Venka Purushothaman, deputy president of LASALLE College of the Arts in Singapore, shared his view of Singapore's cultural landscape and its integration with economic and technological development. He noted that AI has become a critical component of Singapore's cultural policies, integrated into the arts, design, and media policies. This reflects a forward-looking approach to how technology can enhance cultural experiences and diplomacy.

"Cultural diplomacy is a multidimensional concept, which can be narrowly defined as government-led cultural exchanges or broadly encompassing cultural activities from non-governmental and corporate sectors," Xiang Yong, a professor from Peking University, told the Global Times during the event. 

He further explained, "In the bilateral agreements China signs with other countries, people-to-people exchanges have become an indispensable component. This not only deepens cultural exchanges with various countries but also strengthens lasting relationships on the basis of trade, economy, and other political dialogues."

Dai Juncheng, a professor from the Central University of Finance and Economics, emphasized during the second panel the evolving role of China in cultural diplomacy and global governance. He highlighted the need for a paradigm shift from a localized to a global perspective in how China presents itself to the world.

"We no longer shy away from talking about benefits. Cultural products going global and entering the international market are in themselves a demonstration of cultural soft power and also a reflection of economic interests," Xiang emphasized. When discussing specific practices of cultural diplomacy, Xiang noted that government-led exchange activities, such as the China-France Year of Culture and Tourism, have become comprehensive platforms for achieving dual goals of cultural exchange and trade.

For instance, events like 'Happy Chinese New Year' directly touch the daily lives of people abroad, allowing them to experience the charm of Chinese culture. This kind of sustained and in-depth cultural display has a more profound and long-lasting impact than temporary performances, according to Xiang.

Photo: Shan Jie/GT

Zhao Tongying, a distinguished professor and Peking Opera instrumentalist at the Chinese Academy of Chinese Opera, performed Peking Opera excerpts alongside other artists during the event. "Peking Opera is more than just an art form; it is a vital component of Chinese traditional culture. I feel extremely honored to perform with fellow artists today. Through such performances, we can showcase the depth and richness of Peking Opera to the audience. Whether it's domestic or international, Peking Opera has an irresistible appeal," Zhao told the Global Times.

"I hope we will have more opportunities to showcase Peking Opera on the international stage, allowing people from around the world to experience the unique charm of this ancient art. Today's performance is a great start; it not only enhances the audience's understanding of Peking Opera but also fosters cultural exchange and resonance," he noted.