The “Journey Through Civilizations” exhibit, organized by CCTV United Nations Bureau, is now open to the public at the United Nations. The display will continue through July 7. An official launch ceremony was held at the UN on June 29. 

The exhibit is an interactive trip into the power of art, history and innovation. Organizers hope it will encourage dialogue and appreciation in our interconnected world.

It's the first time the UN has incorporated a high-tech virtual game program into a traditional exhibition. Participants will get a deeper understanding of the cultural heritage of China and the World.  

CMG President Shen Haixiong delivered a video speech at the launch ceremony. “Chinese civilization promotes inclusiveness, flourishing through exchanges and mutual learning with others,” he said. He also stressed the China Media Group will uphold the mission of the media to strengthen international cultural exchanges and promote dialogue across the globe.  

“As Secretary-General Guterres said, diversity is a richness, not a threat. Both China and the UN have always been champions of the diversity of civilizations. By holding this exhibition at the UN, we are showing our strong support for such diversity and the UN’s work in relevant fields,” Ambassador Zhang Jun, the Permanent Representative of China to the UN, said during his address at the ceremony. 

He also said that through cultural exchanges, the Chinese civilization is constantly gaining new vitality, and at the same time, contributing to the progress and prosperity of world civilizations.

Miguel Ángel Moratinos, the High Representative for the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations, explained that civilization in Chinese combines meaning of two words - culture and enlightenment. He agreed with Chinese interpretation of civilization, stressing that enlightenment is an important part in civilization. "We want to be enlightening to address problems of our society," he added.

Lily Gray, Senior Liaison Officer at UNESCO’s New York Office highlighted the importance of cultural diversity at her speech at the ceremony, saying that cultural diversity is essential for healthy societies. She also called for global actions to safeguard cultural heritage and promote peaceful societies.  

The event brought together hundreds of guests including UN officials and ambassadors to promote dialogue and mutual learning among different cultures.

Renowned artists from China, the U.S. and Canada presented vivid performances to showcase China’s traditional techniques and arts, including an interactive ear acupuncture demonstration, a tea ceremony, calligraphy, a Guqin musical performance and poetry reading.  

High-tech video walls at the exhibit create a stunning experience, where beautiful images of UNESCO World Heritage Sites – Mount Huangshan and Dazu Rock Carvings - are on display.  

“Journey Through Civilizations” is sponsored by the Chinese permanent mission to the UN, Sino-American Friendship Association and UNSRC Chinese Book Club.

Through a blend of exhibits the event is an opportunity for member states to showcase the richness of their cultures, arts, traditions and historical narratives.  

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