Chinese Civilization Thrives through Cultural Exchanges and Mutual Learning

Chinese civilization continues to flourish through cultural exchanges and mutual learning with other civilizations, as evidenced by recent events and initiatives. On May 3, 2024, over 100 scholars from China and France gathered in Paris for a symposium titled "Exchanges and Mutual Learning between the Chinese and French Civilizations: Review and Outlook." The event, jointly organized by the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS) and the National Institute of Oriental Languages and Civilizations (Inalco), aimed to deepen exchanges between different civilizations.

Why this matters: The promotion of cultural exchanges and mutual learning between civilizations can help foster greater understanding, trust, and cooperation, ultimately contributing to global peace and development. As the world faces complex challenges, such initiatives can play a crucial role in bridging cultural divides and promoting collective progress.

CASS President Gao Xiang emphasized the importance of strengthening mutual learning between Chinese and French civilizations, stating, "Strengthening mutual learning between Chinese and French civilizations and enriching cultural exchanges are intrinsic requirements for the two countries to promote mutual understanding, build a solid foundation of trust, and deepen partnership." Gao also highlighted the role of China and France in facilitating the implementation of the Global Civilization Initiative, which was proposed last year to promote the common progress of different civilizations and enhance the well-being of all mankind.

The symposium featured discussions on cross-cultural exchanges, the mutual enrichment of civilizations, scientific and technological innovation, and the future of civilization. China Social Sciences Press and the French publishing house You Feng jointly released a series of publications on "Understanding China" during the event, accompanied by a book exhibition on Chinese-French academic exchanges.

In addition to academic exchanges, educational collaboration between China and France has also flourished in recent years. According to China's Ministry of Education, 46,000 Chinese students are currently studying in France, while 1,500 French students are enrolled in Chinese institutions. Both countries have expanded language programs, with 148 undergraduate, 34 master's degree, and 10 doctoral teaching sites established in China, and 18 Confucius Institutes and a Confucius Classroom set up in France. The two countries have also launched 69 joint programs spanning levels above undergraduate, involving 54 Chinese and 67 French universities.

The thriving cultural exchangesbetween China and France are part of a broader trend of Chinese civilization learning from and engaging with other civilizations. This openness to mutual learning has been a hallmark of Chinese civilization throughout its long history. From the ancient Silk Road to the modern Belt and Road Initiative, China has consistently sought to foster connections and exchanges with other cultures, leading to the enrichment and advancement of its own civilization.

As the world faces complex challenges and the resurgence of the "clash of civilizations" theory, events like the Chinese-French symposium and the Global Civilization Initiative underscore the importance of cultural exchanges and mutual learning in promoting understanding, trust, and cooperation among different civilizations. Through deepening exchanges and strengthening mutual learning, China and France, along with other nations, can laya solid foundationfor the sustainable peace and development of the world.

Key Takeaways

• China and France held a symposium on cultural exchanges and mutual learning.
• 100 scholars from both countries attended, discussing cross-cultural exchanges and innovation.
• China and France have 69 joint education programs, with 46,000 Chinese students in France.
• The Global Civilization Initiative aims to promote collective progress and understanding.
• Cultural exchanges can foster trust, cooperation, and global peace and development.