Latest news with #GlobalCivilisationInitiative
The National
07-08-2025
- Entertainment
- The National
'Labubu' diplomacy: A Chinese doll that's bridging cultures
In recent days, I have repeatedly seen an endearing video on social media platforms and in local and international media outlets of a graduate from China's prestigious Tsinghua University. In the clip, the student is seen bringing her beloved 'Labubu' doll to the graduation ceremony stage and asking the university's vice president to share a cute moment with her by moving the doll's cap tassel. This clip has garnered millions of views and has been covered by international media organisations, including well-known UAE-based outlets. Thereby, Labubu has found itself to be in the global spotlight, reflecting the love that people around the world, including Arab audiences, have for this unique doll. Labubu's widespread popularity is not a coincidence; rather, it reflects the ability of Chinese culture to interact with global cultures through symbols that inspire shared emotions and express values such as innocence, joy, courage, kindness and friendship. The unique design and blend of Asian aesthetics with global folk art expressions have made Labubu a visual language understood by all. The doll's popularity reveals a deeper truth: there is a global thirst for cultural values that transcend isolation, celebrate difference and diversity, and seek moments of joy in a complex world. This is where the importance of China's Global Civilisation Initiative becomes clear. The initiative calls for promoting dialogue and understanding between cultures based on mutual respect and a shared future. Through this framework, China calls for respecting the diversity of civilisations, defending the common values of humanity, emphasising the importance of the inheritance and innovation of civilisations, and jointly promoting international cultural and humanitarian exchanges and co-operation. It makes a sincere call to the world to promote exchanges and dialogue between civilisations and advance human civilisation through inclusiveness and mutual learning, thus providing a moral driving force for building a community with a shared future for humanity. Labubu is not alone. Other Chinese cultural products are beginning to resonate globally, such as the game Black Legend: Wukong, inspired by ancient Chinese mythology and a great classic in Chinese literature, and the animated film Ne Zha, which reinterprets Chinese epics in a modern artistic language. Moreover, such phenomena as 'China Travel' and 'China Shopping' have attracted millions of foreign visitors, including citizens of Arab countries, to explore the country, from its urban landmarks to its popular culture, reflecting a growing cultural presence that transcends stereotypes. By visiting China, people have a better opportunity to understand the features of its culture more deeply, contributing to the promotion of cultural exchange and understanding among peoples. These phenomena demonstrate that the world is no longer merely searching for power, but rather for meaning and human warmth. A doll, a film, or a travel experience can open windows to understanding others and break down psychological and cultural barriers China today offers a renewed cultural model based on creativity, respect for diversity and honest exchanges between civilisations, rather than conflict. Labubu does not convey a political message, but by virtue of its cuteness and simplicity, it embodies the spirit of cross-cultural communication and human exchange. From this perspective, its concept aligns with the World Civilisation Initiative, which calls on all countries to respect the diversity of civilisations around the world, thus contributing to the promotion of understanding and mutual learning among different peoples and societies. At a time when talk about a clash of civilisations is rife, Labubu and other similar Chinese cultural products demonstrate that even the simplest forms of creativity can be a gateway to profound dialogue between peoples. A doll, a film, or a travel experience can open windows to understanding others and break down psychological and cultural barriers. These products, with their aesthetic and humane values, are no longer mere consumer goods; they have become effective vehicles for cultural rapprochement and exchange, reflecting the spirit of openness and pluralism advocated by the Global Civilisation Initiative. Through these creative mediums, Chinese culture not only presents itself to the world but also contributes to building bridges of understanding and trust, affirming that the path to dialogue begins with recognising the other and respecting their diversity. Thus, cultural products are transformed into a true soft power, enriching the global cultural landscape and practically embodying China's vision for a future based on pluralism, co-existence and openness, rather than hegemony and conflict.
The Star
16-06-2025
- Business
- The Star
Global civilisation initiative: The Asean multicultural model
In response to growing geopolitical tensions and cultural misunderstandings, the Global Civilisation Initiative (GCI) envisions a world where countries collaborate rather than compete and prioritise dialogue over division. While economic interdependence and technological advancements are reshaping societies, GCI seeks to create global harmony based on cultural diversity, shared human values, and sustainable progress. Billed as RM9.73 for the 1st month then RM13.90 thereafters. RM12.33/month RM8.63/month Billed as RM103.60 for the 1st year then RM148 thereafters. Free Trial For new subscribers only
Egypt Independent
15-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Egypt Independent
From the Nile to Yangtze: Ancient rhythms forge new bonds at National Museum of Egyptian Civilization concert
The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC) came alive with a vibrant celebration of harmony and cross-cultural exchange as Egyptian and Chinese musicians performed a special concert. Titled 'Conversation and Connection: Music Connects the World,' the event underscored music's profound ability to unite diverse cultures. Co-presented by the Chinese Cultural Centre in Cairo, the heartwarming event drew prominent figures, guests, and artists from both countries to honor a rich, shared cultural tapestry. The museum's CEO, Eltayeb Abbas, eloquently articulated the enduring bonds between Egypt and China, calling them two venerable civilizations whose rich histories spanning thousands of years 'Music is one of the most essential threads in the fabric of any civilization,' he said. 'Through music, we express both joy and sorrow, and it plays a vital role in our traditions, rituals, and day-to-day life. Across time, music has been a key channel for human connection, weaving us together even when separated by geography or language.' Abbas also stressed the museum's commitment to honoring both Egypt's rich physical heritage and its intangible cultural treasures, including music, which serve as powerful unifying forces. 'It's every person's right, no matter where they are, to connect through the universal language of music,' he added, highlighting the museum's aim to enhance profound relations among all civilizations. Chinese Ambassador Liao Liqiang reinforced these sentiments, celebrating both countries as ancient beacons of civilization. He commended their enduring mutual respect and shared commitment to appreciating the rich diversity of global cultures. Uniting civilizations Liqiang pinpointed Chinese President Xi Jinping's 'Global Civilization Initiative,' a call to foster dialogue and learning between cultures – a stance strongly supported by President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, who recently stressed that 'Civilizations are meant to complement and benefit each other, not to create conflict or war.' The ambassador also referenced Egypt's significant contribution to initiating the International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations, alongside its engagement in regional cooperation via the China-Arab Center for the Global Civilisation Initiative, in collaboration with the Arab League. These collective efforts underscore the transformative promise of partnership in achieving global peace and understanding, he said. The concert was a symphonic journey, one where Egyptian and Chinese musicians enchanted the audience with a captivating repertoire of authentic tunes and contemporary compositions. Their performance vividly demonstrated how music constantly evolves, uniting new generations by blending timeless heritage with contemporary flair. On the periphery of the concert, the Chinese Cultural Center hosted an inviting exhibit, showcasing a diverse range of their initiatives and cultural offerings, thereby encouraging attendees to explore Chinese heritage. The vibrant atmosphere was further enhanced by an Egyptian tanoura performance, which earned enthusiastic acclaim from attendees spellbound by its dazzling visual spectacle and energetic rhythms. These standout performances vividly encapsulated the evening's essence: a vibrant tapestry of cultural exchange and collective appreciation.
Syyaha
13-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Syyaha
Egyptian, Chinese music shine at NMEC concert
The National Museum of Egyptian Civilisation (NMEC) was filled with a vibrant atmosphere of joy and unity as Egyptian and Chinese musicians graced the stage for a special concert entitled 'Conversation and Connection: Music Connects the World.'Organised in partnership with the Chinese Cultural Centre in Cairo, the event drew guests, dignitaries, and performers from both nations in a heartwarming celebration of shared cultural Eltaysb Abbas, CEO of the museum, spoke about the profound ties between Egypt and China, two ancient civilisations with histories stretching back millennia.'Music is one of the most essential threads in the fabric of any civilisation,' he said.'Through music, we express both joy and sorrow, and it plays a vital role in our traditions, rituals, and day-to-day life. Across time, music has been a key channel for human connection, weaving us together even when separated by geography or language.'Dr. Abbas also emphasised the museum's commitment to celebrating not just the physical artifacts of Egypt's grand past, but the intangible cultural treasures that continue to bring people together, including music.'It's every person's right, no matter where they are, to connect through the universal language of music,' he added, highlighting the museum's aim to foster understanding and friendship among all these sentiments, the Chinese Ambassador to Egypt, Liao Liqiang, lauded both nations as proud standard-bearers of civilisation, praising their mutual respect and commitment to appreciating the world's rich tapestry of cultures. He mentioned Chinese President Xi Jinping's 'Global Civilisation Initiative,' a call to strengthen dialogue and learning between cultures, a vision that has found a strong partner in President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, who recently affirmed that 'human civilizations are meant to complement and benefit each other, not to create conflict or war.' The Ambassador also pointed to the significant role Egypt played in supporting the creation of the International Day for Dialogue among Civilisations, as well as regional cooperation through the China-Arab Centre for the Global Civilisation Initiative, in partnership with the Arab League. These joint efforts, he said, showcase the promise of collaboration in building global peace and evening's performances swept the audience into a world of sound, with Egyptian and Chinese musicians enchanting listeners with both traditional melodies and modern arrangements, a reflection of how music continues to evolve and bring new generations together, blending the richness of the past with the vibrancy of the present. On the sidelines of the event, representatives from the Chinese Culture Centre warmly showcased a variety of their activities and products, inviting guests to learn more about Chinese traditions. Adding to the vibrant atmosphere, an Egyptian tannoura performance also took place and was met with enthusiastic praise from the attendees, who were captivated by its colourful display and lively rhythms. Both highlights beautifully reflected the evening's spirit of cultural exchange and shared appreciation.
Malaysiakini
12-06-2025
- Politics
- Malaysiakini
A critical view as M'sia-China relations enters new 'golden era'
COMMENT | After a long wait, Chinese President Xi Jinping completed his state visit to Malaysia from April 15 to 17. This was his first state visit to Malaysia in 13 years. The outcomes of the visit were formalised in a joint statement and the signing of 31 bilateral agreements and memoranda, covering a wide spectrum of issues from global security to a bilateral visa exemption policy. Malaysia's endorsement of China's Global Security Initiative, Global Development Initiative, and Global Civilisation Initiative, and the inclusion of Kuala Lumpur in the 2+2 vice-ministerial meeting framework, and the mutual agreement to build a high-level strategic China-Malaysia community with a shared future were among the key developments. Among these initiatives, the Global Security Initiative is particularly notable, as it has been framed as a flagship public good offered by China. During the signing ceremony, the Global Security Initiative was prioritised as the first agreement, a symbolic indication of its significance. Malaysia's extraordinary warm reception, coupled with Malaysian police's contentious pre-emptive detention of 76 Falun Gong practitioners before Xi's visit, signified that Malaysia-China relations were entering a 'new golden era', as hailed by both Malaysian and Chinese leaders.
