This Tuesday in Macao SAR, over 50 experts from nearly 10 countries came together for the 2025 International Forum on Mutual Learning Among Civilizations 🌏. Hosted by the Cultural Affairs Bureau of the Macao SAR government and backed by the Chinese Academy of History of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, the two-day gathering set the stage for fresh cultural dialogue and cooperation.
Qian Chengdan, Boya chair professor at Peking University, kicked off the forum by highlighting diversity as the heartbeat of human progress. “Without diversity, mutual learning loses its spark,” he said, reminding everyone that civilizations have thrived through contact, comparison and adaptation since ancient times.
He also challenged outdated ideas of civilizational superiority, calling out Western-centric narratives rooted in colonial histories. Rather than a “clash of civilizations,” Qian sees today’s world as a “return of civilizations,” where non-Western societies regain confidence and reshape global conversations about humanity, nature and social order.
Li Guoqiang, vice president of the Chinese Academy of History, traced how China’s imperial examination system inspired civil service reforms in Britain and beyond, showing cross-civilizational learning in action. He pointed to Macao’s own multicultural story—from late Ming dynasty trade routes to its modern identity—as proof that openness breeds innovation and shared prosperity.
“No single wisdom can light the way for all,” Li said. “Only by learning from each other can we achieve lasting development and shared prosperity.”
Over the next two days, participants will dive into workshops on cultural innovation, creative industries and digital exchange, aiming to chart new paths for global cooperation. In a world of complex challenges, this forum reminds us that dialogue, respect and equal partnership remain our strongest tools ✨
Reference(s):
Experts call for deeper civilizational dialogue at forum in Macao SAR
cgtn.com
