Original Source: www.ecns.cn
In the echoing halls of Deauville, where ancient narratives of China and France intertwine, the 6th China-France Cultural Forum unfolded like a tapestry of aspirations, weaving together respect and curiosity for each other’s legacies. Former French Prime Minister Jean-Pierre Raffarin illuminated that despite lingering cultural divides, the spirit of this gathering is to foster mutual understanding, reminding us of the shared beauty found in our differences.
Commemorating 60 years of diplomatic friendship, this year’s forum resonated with the urgency of our times—where change surges like a relentless tide yet allows the shores of cultural exchange to flourish. Against the backdrop of the forum, key figures like Christine Cayol and Philippe Augier echoed the call for open dialogues and artistic innovation, rendering the forum a beacon for cultural kinship.
Cayol’s vision of the forum blossomed from the collective passion of artists hoping to bridge divides. Mayor Augier emphasized the symbiotic relationship of cultural openness that fosters understanding across borders. The warm embrace of Deauville, with its rich history and cultural vibrancy, served as a fitting host, guiding attendees through the corridors of art and dialogue, and by doing so, illuminating the potential for future connections.
As discussions surged around the theme of “Inheritance and Innovation of Civilizations,” participants enthused about the importance of passing down the timeless bond of Sino-French friendship to future generations. Vice Chairman Mao Weitao poignantly highlighted the contrast between traditional arts and the pulse of modern technology, where the youth find themselves navigating identity through digital landscapes. This fusion of past and present, he suggested, heralds a renaissance, with emerging perspectives breathing new life into age-old traditions.
In an age marked by rapid evolution, Arnaud de Puyfontaine distilled the essence of cultural exchanges, portraying them as bridges connecting diverse shores. These rich conversations underscored that the shared legacies of both nations are not found in mere admiration, but in active, ongoing dialogues that inspire deeper connections among peoples through art and heritage.
The China-France Cultural Forum stems from a shared historical narrative between two of the world’s oldest civilizations. This annual event has become vital in promoting cultural appreciation, understanding, and cooperation at a time when the world faces escalating challenges and changes. With this year’s forum coinciding with the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations, the emphasis was placed on examining how both nations can continue to innovate culturally while honoring their deep-rooted traditions.
As the curtain falls on this year’s forum in Deauville, the lingering echoes of dialogue and artistic expression celebrate a vibrant cultural landscape where curiosity reigns. Bridging the cultural divide between China and France serves as an inspiring reminder of the power and potential of mutual respect, shared innovation, and the inherited legacies that continue to shape both civilizations. This narrative of connection will undoubtedly guide future generations in exploring the depth of cultural exchanges.
