Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for enhanced global dialogue and cooperation among civilizations, reaffirming China’s commitment to fostering mutual understanding and peaceful development across the world. In a congratulatory letter addressed to the Global Civilizations Dialogue Ministerial Meeting held in Beijing on Thursday, Xi emphasized the importance of intercultural exchange and collaboration in building a harmonious international community.
Xi, who is also General Secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, expressed China’s readiness to work with other countries to develop a global network dedicated to civilizational dialogue and cooperation. He pledged support for the Global Civilization Initiative (GCI), which seeks to promote values such as equality, mutual learning, and inclusiveness among different cultures.
“The world is, in nature, a place of diverse civilizations,” Xi stated. “History has shown us that exchanges and mutual learning among civilizations are essential for civilizations to flourish and human progress to be made.”
At a time of global uncertainty and transformation, Xi argued that humanity must overcome division through dialogue and avoid conflict by embracing cultural understanding. He urged all participants to engage deeply, build consensus, and contribute to global peace and development.
Speaking at the event, Cai Qi, a senior CPC official and member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau, highlighted the international momentum behind the GCI. Launched over two years ago, the initiative has been well-received by the global community. Cai noted that it reflects China’s traditional values while aligning with the cultural principles of many nations.
Held under the theme “Safeguarding Diversity of Human Civilizations for World Peace and Development,” the meeting was co-hosted by the CPC’s Publicity and International Departments. It brought together over 600 guests from around 140 countries and regions, including former heads of state from Indonesia, Namibia, Japan, and Belgium.
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres also sent a congratulatory message, underscoring the significance of cultural dialogue in today’s interconnected world.
The forum served as a platform to renew calls for unity, cultural respect, and global cooperation in the face of rising geopolitical tensions.