Chinese ‘One Belt, One Road’ initiative requires cultural, artistic integration: Official
Majid Shah-Hosseini, the head of the Iranian Academy of Arts, asserted that China’s strategic initiative “One Belt, One Road,” currently being pursued in West Asia, would be incomplete without a cultural and artistic framework.
He made these remarks during a meeting with Cong Peiwu, the Chinese ambassador to Iran, and his accompanying delegation, IRNA reported.
The gathering, attended by embassy secretaries and several officials from the Iranian academy, focused on reviewing the historical cultural and artistic ties between Iran and China. Participants exchanged ideas and proposed strategies for implementing a recently signed memorandum of understanding between the art academies of both nations.
During the meeting, Shah-Hosseini expressed his pleasure with the official visits that took place during the Iranian academy’s delegation trip to China, thanking the Chinese side for their hospitality.
He highlighted the vast intellectual and artistic potential of the academy’s members, whom he described as the “heartbeat” of the organization, particularly in areas like traditional and modern arts, artificial intelligence, future studies in art, and digital art.
He stated, “The Belt and Road initiative, without cultural and artistic attachments, is essentially an unfinished project.” In this context, the Iranian Academy of Arts is eager to engage in collaborative efforts within cinematic projects, including “Silk Road 2,” organizing biennial exhibitions for Belt and Road countries, translating art books, conducting webinars to showcase the cultural and historical identities of Iran and China, and hosting art exhibitions such as a painting show by artist Juan Zhou.
Shah-Hosseini emphasized that this strategic initiative serves the interests of both ancient civilizations and will only be realized through practical steps taken by both academies.
Shah-Hosseini also noted the need for a comprehensive understanding of ancient civilizations, stating, “Unlike the torrents from emerging countries lacking deep-rooted cultural foundations, ancient civilizations offer gentle and enduring rains that rejuvenate cultural climates.” He expressed hope for a future where culture and art become a common language in today’s world.
Ambassador Cong Peiwu agreed with the Iranian proposals, describing the discussed ideas as wise and insightful. He emphasized that cultural exchange and civilizational interaction play a crucial role in the relationship between the two countries, stating, “This dialogue and peaceful coexistence among civilizations remove distances and tensions.”
Cong highlighted the historical significance of the Silk Road as a conduit for cultural exchange, noting that instruments such as the Iranian Sorna (double-reed musical instrument) and Barbat (a string instrument) have traveled to China along this route.
He mentioned recent cultural cooperation, including the ongoing exhibition ‘The Glory of Ancient Iran’ taking place in three major Chinese cities. Plus, he pointed out advancements in Persian language education, stating that over ten universities are now nurturing future experts to enhance bilateral relations.
In closing, both sides exchanged gifts as a symbolic gesture and expressed hope that continued collaboration would foster further growth in cultural and artistic endeavors.
The “One Belt, One Road” initiative, introduced by Chinese President Xi Jinping in the fall of 2013 during his visits to Kazakhstan and Indonesia, encompasses the “Economic Belt” and the “21st Century Maritime Silk Road.” This project aims to connect four continents, and Beijing seeks to utilize its resources and those of various countries, including Iran, to advance the initiative.