‘Culture preservation key to national identity’
Tsaone Basimanebotlhe | Monday October 20, 2025 06:08
He said culture is the heart of every society and a key factor that defines national identity and unity. Speaking during the Seminar on Civilisation Exchange and Mutual Learning for Professionals from Belt and Road Countries this week, which is currently taking place here, Cunwen said he is deeply concerned by the growing erosion of culture in many countries around the world.
He noted that as nations modernise and integrate into the global system, cultural values are often neglected or replaced by foreign influences, leading to a loss of identity among communities and youth.
“We need to protect our culture and make sure that young children and youth are taught about it,” Cunwen said.
“As we have gathered here from different countries, we should find ways to partner on initiatives that can help preserve our cultural values. Culture defines every country, and in China, we are doing all we can, even in schools, to teach about its importance. Our children know that elders must be respected, and as a country, we value unity and togetherness.”
Cunwen explained that cultural preservation is not merely about maintaining traditional practices, but also about upholding moral values, respect, and a sense of belonging that bind people together.
He emphasised that China, like many other nations, also faces challenges in preserving its traditions due to modernisation and global influences, which is why the government has made deliberate efforts to integrate cultural education into the school curriculum and community programs.
Cunwen urged participants from various Belt and Road countries to take a proactive approach in protecting their heritage, arguing that culture and development can coexist.
“If countries can join hands and speak with one voice on cultural issues,” he said, “then our traditions and values will not be easily shaken. We must treat culture as a source of strength, not as something outdated.”
The seminar, which focuses on global civilisation initiatives, mutual learning, and exchange, brings together professionals, government representatives, and scholars from several Belt and Road nations to explore ways of enhancing cooperation in cultural, social, and economic development.
Cunwen said the gathering serves as an important platform to discuss not only cultural issues but also shared challenges facing developing countries.
In addition to cultural matters, he encouraged participants to engage in meaningful dialogue about poverty eradication, climate change, agricultural sustainability, industrialisation, and the digital economy. He said that by addressing these issues collaboratively, countries could strengthen their resilience and create more inclusive growth.
“Bilateral relationships are one of the best ways for countries to work together and support one another,” he added.
“Through these relationships, we can exchange ideas, share expertise, and implement projects that benefit our people. I encourage each of you to explore areas of mutual interest and cooperation with one another.”
He further highlighted that the choice of Xiamen as the seminar’s host city was deliberate, given the city’s reputation for openness, innovation, and international cooperation.
According to him, Xiamen provides an ideal environment for participants to engage in cross-cultural learning and explore various models of sustainable urban development.
Cunwen also emphasised that the seminar is not only about discussion but also about action-oriented partnerships that can yield tangible results.
He encouraged participants to form networks that would continue beyond the event, ensuring continuous collaboration in areas such as trade, education, tourism, and cultural promotion.
Turning his attention to agriculture, he said the importance of food security and community empowerment through self-sufficiency.
In addition, he noted that many societies, particularly in developing countries, rely heavily on imported food, which leaves them vulnerable to global market fluctuations.
“It is important for communities to learn how to plough and produce food for themselves rather than waiting to be fed,” he said.
“Agriculture is not just an economic activity; it is a cultural and social practice that teaches responsibility, patience, and appreciation for the land. In China, we are still working hard to reduce poverty, but we are beginning to see positive results as the government continues to support communities and encourage the spirit of cultivation.”
He said China’s achievements in poverty reduction were made possible by strong government support, community participation, and a focus on practical solutions such as agricultural modernization and small-scale entrepreneurship.
These efforts, he noted, have lifted millions of people out of poverty and improved living standards across rural areas.
He reaffirmed China’s commitment to working closely with countries that share similar development aspirations, saying the government is open to providing technical assistance, training opportunities, and knowledge sharing.
“China is willing to cooperate with any country that wants to improve the lives of its people,” he said.
Currently, some councillors and officials from Gaborone are in China to identify potential areas of cooperation, particularly in governance, infrastructure development, and community empowerment.
Similarly, representatives from the Hospitality and Tourism Association of Botswana (HATAB) are attending the seminar to explore ways of strengthening Botswana’s tourism sector through partnerships with other countries.
The seminar forms part of China’s broader Global Civilization Initiative, which promotes dialogue, understanding, and collaboration among nations through mutual respect for diverse cultures. It aims to encourage countries to learn from each other’s experiences and find shared solutions to global challenges while maintaining their unique cultural identities.
As the seminar continues, participants are expected to engage in field visits, discussions, and exchange sessions that will help deepen their understanding of China’s cultural and development model.
Cunwen expressed optimism that the dialogue will lead to long-term partnerships that enhance unity and cultural pride among Belt and Road countries.