Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: People's Republic of China in Russian – People's Republic of China in Russian –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Source: People's Republic of China – State Council News
On November 8, a forum on cultural exchange and development in cyberspace was held in Wuzhen, Zhejiang Province, as part of the 2025 World Internet Conference (WICC) summit. The event brought together officials and experts from China and other countries to discuss ways to promote cultural development in the digital environment.
The forum was organized by the China International Communication Group (CICG) and co-organized by China.org.cn, Tencent, and the Academy of Contemporary China and World Studies. Guided by the Global Civilization Initiative, it brought together government officials, heads of international organizations, scholars, internet company representatives, and opinion leaders to discuss the latest trends in online cultural development, exchange experiences, and explore new opportunities to advance cultural dialogue.
Under the theme of "Deepening Cultural Exchanges in Cyberspace to Promote the Co-Prosperity of World Civilizations," the forum sought to build a bridge for dialogue among civilizations in the digital environment and bring new dynamics to the formation of an open and inclusive cyber community.
At the plenary session, David Ferguson, Honorary Editor-in-Chief of the English Language Press at the CICG, emphasized the importance of language professionals as "natural-born storytellers." He noted that artificial intelligence is transforming the translation field, threatening the disappearance of traditional roles, but the internet is opening up new opportunities, combining China's technological prowess with its cultural and linguistic soft power. Ferguson proposed creating a new professional field—"new technologies and international communications"—to fully unlock the potential of these resources.
Li Wei, Counselor to the State Council of the People's Republic of China and Vice Dean of the School of New Media at Peking University, noted in her speech: "Culture is the soul of civilization, and communication is its lifeline. With the rise of the internet and new media, the content and form of culture have undergone profound changes. Online culture balances heritage and innovation and becomes a new bridge connecting different civilizations."
Wang Jiang, President of the China Academy of Cyberspace Research, emphasized that generative AI is rapidly transforming the world. He expressed hope for a new consensus to emerge for online cultural exchange by strengthening culture through technology, building interpersonal bridges with a focus on the younger generation, and expanding the space for dialogue between civilizations based on respect and inclusiveness. "The internet is becoming a new platform for cultural diversity to flourish and an arena for mutual learning between civilizations," he said.
Zhu Dianjun, editor-in-chief and vice president of public policy at Tencent, noted that the technological revolution, driven by artificial intelligence, is creating new opportunities for cultural heritage, innovation, and dialogue between civilizations. "Tencent has always adhered to the mission of 'Technology for Good.' We strive to use technology as a foundation and culture as a source of soft power to build a bridge in the digital space that connects the past, present, and future," he said.
At the forum, experts shared practical approaches to cultural exchange in cyberspace. Hong Tao, Assistant General Manager of Zhonghua Shuju Book Company, explained how AI and ancient text data are helping to revive China's cultural heritage and bring the wisdom of millennia into the modern era. Jia Yi, Chairman and CEO of tech company Crazy Maple Studio, spoke about the short drama platform ReelShort, created for a global audience, and emphasized the importance of using algorithms and content ecosystems to bridge cultural gaps and foster co-creation. Stuart Wiggin, video creator and recipient of the Friendship Ambassador Award at the Second Orchid Awards, demonstrated how authentic stories in short videos can break down barriers and foster intercultural resonance.
Dong Yuhui, a former English tutor and internet celebrity, shared his experience reaching millions of viewers through cultural content. "The power of culture is immense and enduring—it can touch, comfort, and inspire people. Today, we stand at a crossroads: on one side, a centuries-old cultural tradition, on the other, a rising tide of digital innovation. Promoting the prosperity of global civilizations requires internet professionals to demonstrate the value of creativity and innovation," he noted.
During the roundtable, participants from various countries—including Chen Gang, Mohamed Jihad Mohamed Mostafa, Ekaterina Kaligaeva, Nikki Johnson, and Varga Bonita—discussed various narratives and practices of cross-cultural learning and demonstrated how new media can help bridge cultural divides.
The forum concluded with the launch of three key initiatives: the "China and the World" joint online platform for cultural exchange, the "2025 Chinese Cultural Symbols International Communication Index (CSIC) Report," and a showcase of international communication projects as part of the "Online Chinese Festivals" program. These initiatives open up new opportunities for promoting Chinese culture in the global digital space.
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.