Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: People's Republic of China in Russian – People's Republic of China in Russian –
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Source: People's Republic of China – State Council News
LANZHOU, Oct. 15 (Xinhua) — The World Mayors' Dialogue was held in Dunhuang, an ancient city on the Silk Road in northwest China's Gansu Province, from Oct. 11 to 13. Representatives from 10 countries, including mayors, their representatives, diplomats accredited in China, and young sinologists, attended the event.
Participants engaged in an in-depth exchange of views on topics such as providing cities with cultural resources, environmental protection, green development, and building smart cities, amid the drive for sustainable development of cities rich in cultural resources.
Chinese and foreign representatives agreed that, faced with multiple global challenges, it is increasingly urgent to achieve a balance between preserving history and promoting urban development, as well as strengthening international cooperation.
On Monday afternoon, Olga Pronkina, a professor at Gansu University of Political Science and Law, shared her personal story connected to Dunhuang. She recalled that her attachment to the place began in 2007. "Then I saw the Thousand-Armed Guanyin dance in my hometown of Penza. From that moment on, I was drawn to Dunhuang culture."
In 2015, Olga visited Dunhuang for the first time and saw the frescoes and colorful sculptures in the Mogao Grottoes with her own eyes. She was deeply moved by the artistic energy that transcended the boundaries of time and space. Since then, she has begun studying Dunhuang studies, translating works related to this field, and working to become a bridge for cultural exchange between China and Russia.
"Dunhuang's culture is rich in historical and humanistic values. It is the quintessence of exchanges between world civilizations. The Dialogue of World Mayors allowed mayors and representatives from different countries to gather in Dunhuang to deepen mutual understanding and trust," Olga noted, expressing hope that she will help more readers from Russian-speaking countries understand Dunhuang and appreciate the city's openness and inclusiveness.
"Dunhuang boasts unique natural landscapes, a rich cultural heritage, and an ancient history that left a profound impression on us. This city demonstrates to the world a harmonious symbiosis between modern development, respect for nature, and the protection of history, which aligns with our concept of protecting nature and preserving heritage," emphasized Tigran Poghosyan, an event participant from Armenia's Kotayk Province.
The international guests also enjoyed a captivating dance performance, "Ancient Sounds of Dunhuang." Set against the backdrop of a cave, the performance allowed viewers to experience the music and dance of the Silk Road civilization a thousand years ago, using restored ancient musical instruments, dance techniques, and frescoed scores.
Georgian Vaja Bukia, one of the actors in this production, attracted the attention of many viewers. The 28-year-old has lived in China for ten years. Last year, a friend recommended he come to Dunhuang, where he became an actor in the drama "Ancient Sounds of Dunhuang."
When Vaja Bukia first came to Dunhuang, he was deeply impressed by the intertwined deserts and oases. Now, a year later, he likes the city even more. In his free time, he also shares his understanding of Dunhuang culture with friends.
"Dunhuang culture is an ancient culture, passed down from generation to generation. The same can be said about Georgian culture. We have a great resonance," he concluded.
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