China and Turkiye have mutually influenced each other's cultures over time, building a substantial heritage legacy and great potential for future cultural cooperation, a forum has heard.
Around 100 guests from China, Turkiye, and UNESCO held in-depth exchanges on literature and cultural heritage on Thursday at the Nanjing-Istanbul Urban Civilization Dialogue in Istanbul, Turkiye, to promote mutual learning between civilizations.
Hu Kaihong, deputy director of the General Office of the Central Commission for Guiding Cultural and Ethical Progress, said that as 2026 marks the 55th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Turkiye, the dialogue not only carries forward the spirit of the ancient Silk Road, but also acts as a tangible example of putting the Global Civilization Initiative into action, contributing to the harmonious coexistence and shared prosperity of human civilizations.
Frederique Aubert, head of the culture unit at the UNESCO Regional Bureau for Science and Culture in Europe, located in Venice, said China and Turkiye have established enduring cultural ties forged along the ancient Silk Road. This tradition of cultural exchange continues to this day and remains as relevant as ever, providing a platform for cities to share experiences, deepen mutual learning, and work together to address common challenges.
