On June 20th this year, Astana hosted the "Civilizations Dialogue among SCO Countries - 2024," attended by over 130 representatives from various SCO member states.
The event was organized by the Broadcasting Center for Europe and Asia (published by "People's Daily Overseas Edition") under the Administration of the State Council of China for Publication and Distribution of Foreign Language Literature (CICG), the Institute for Research of Modern China and the World, the Kazakhstan Center for China Studies, the Kazakhstan Center for Studies of Chinese Modernization, and the Committee for the Management of the China-SCO Regional Trade and Economic Cooperation Demonstration Zone.
The Uzbek side was represented by the leadership of the Information and Analytical Center for International Relations at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, experts from the International Institute of Central Asia, and the Institute of Strategic and Interregional Studies under the President.
The event was conducted under the auspices of the SCO Secretariat and the Press Office of the State Council of China, and was timed to precede the 24th meeting of the Council of Heads of SCO Member States, scheduled for July 3-4 this year in Astana. Special attention at the forum was given to the SCO's role in promoting humanitarian cooperation, strengthening mutual understanding among peoples, and creating conditions for cultural exchange and interaction between the member states. Organizers also prepared a series of unique exhibitions of the cultural heritage of Kazakhstan and China.
The Kazakhstan Center for China Studies presented household items, traditions, arts, and crafts of Kazakhstan, including "Tüskiіz" textiles, performances by national ensembles, as well as master classes on traditional musical instruments. Guests were introduced to outstanding works of Chinese calligraphy. Additionally, all guests participated in a Chinese tea ceremony.
The forum concluded with participants agreeing that the "SCO Countries' Civilizations Dialogue - 2024" created an important platform for cultural exchanges and mutual learning among the organization's countries, fostering good opportunities for cooperation and further implementation of the Global Civilization Initiative.
