Xi'an, Chinese mainland – Under the glow of lanterns and set against the ancient Yongning Gate, international media leaders time-traveled to the height of the Tang Dynasty with a spectacular welcome ceremony. 🎉
Called "Dream of Chang'an – The Grand Tang Welcoming Ceremony," the show transformed the south gate of Xi'an’s ancient city wall into a royal palace. Performers in colorful Tang Dynasty costumes recreated the imperial rituals that once greeted honored guests in Chang'an, the city’s ancient name.
"The performance was amazing. It's actually a warm welcoming to the palace. We felt like the emperor was here alone to welcome us," raved Linda Bauma, advisor to the DRC's Minister of Communication. "We love the costumes, the presence, and the performance of everybody."
Juan Carlos Isaza, managing director of the Latin American Information Alliance, was equally impressed: "I feel like I was a thousand years ago in China. The colors, the makeup, the dresses—it was really beautiful."
This dazzling cultural display set the stage for two major gatherings: the Global South Media Partnership Mechanism Inauguration Meeting and the 13th VMF, both aimed at building stronger media ties among Global South nations. Against the backdrop of Xi'an—the historic starting point of the Silk Road—delegates are sharing insights on content sharing, professional training, and joint productions.
Since its launch by CCTV+ in 2011, the VMF has become a key platform for video communication trends, connecting media professionals worldwide. This year’s immersive ceremony reminded everyone why Xi'an remains a symbol of cross-cultural exchange, thousands of years after the Tang Dynasty.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
