Chinese and Italian Presidents Strengthen Cultural and Academic Ties at Beijing Conference

Beijing, The Gulf Observer: Chinese President Xi Jinping and Italian President Sergio Mattarella jointly attended the China-Italy Cultural Cooperation Mechanism Conference and Dialogue between Chinese and Italian University Presidents in Beijing on Friday. The two leaders engaged with representatives to discuss the enduring and expanding cultural and academic collaboration between China and Italy.

President Xi highlighted the rich history of Sino-Italian relations, which span over a thousand years, emphasizing that these deep-rooted ties have fostered extensive cultural and people-to-people exchanges, serving as an exemplary model of equal dialogue and shared progress across civilizations. Xi noted the success of recent initiatives under the China-Italy Cultural Cooperation Mechanism, including the reciprocal Year of Culture and Tourism and the innovative “twinning” model linking UNESCO World Heritage Sites in both nations. He praised the active academic collaboration between Chinese and Italian universities, which has yielded significant research advancements and expanded youth exchanges in emerging disciplines.

Xi also acknowledged the world’s current phase of disorder and transformation, urging both nations to continue promoting mutual understanding and fostering cultural exchanges. He called for a collaborative effort to build a community with a shared future, contributing positively to global peace and development.

President Mattarella commended the cultural cooperation mechanism and university dialogue for their pivotal role in advancing mutual understanding and friendship. He stressed the importance of these engagements in strengthening the comprehensive strategic partnership between Italy and China, stating that both countries, as ancient civilizations, appreciate each other’s rich heritage. Citing the legacy of Marco Polo, Mattarella underscored the mutual respect and historical learning between Eastern and Western cultures.

Mattarella called for strengthened people-to-people exchanges and unity, opposing divisive approaches, to solidify the foundation for continued strategic cooperation between Italy and China.