On January 23, Ambassador Wang Xiaolong attended the Wellington Dunhuang Art Exhibition at the Whitireia&Weltec Te Auaha Campus and delivered a speech. About 60 guests were present, including Mayor Tory Whanau of Wellington, Chief Executive Mark Oldershaw of the Whitireia&Weltec, members of the diplomatic corps as well as representatives from New Zealand’s cultural and educational sectors.
Ambassador Wang said that Dunhuang means grand magnificence. Dunhuang culture is one of the world's largest, longest-lasting, richest, and best-preserved artistic treasures, a shining pearl in the long river of world civilization. Dunhuang not only integrated the local multi-ethnic art, but also drew inspirations from foreign lands, forming a Dunhuang Buddhist art system with clear development context and unique characteristics. The rich historical relics reflect not only the long history and depth of Chinese civilization, but also the splendid scene of intermingling diverse civilizations.
Ambassador Wang emphasized that in March 2023, President Xi Jinping proposed the Global Civilization Initiative, advocating respect for the diversity of civilizations, the common values of humanity, the importance of inheritance and innovation of civilizations, and robust international people-to-people and cultural exchanges and cooperation. Dunhuang is a symbol of the exchange and mutual learning between civilizations, and a representation of the openness and inclusiveness of Chinese civilization. Dunhuang belongs to China and also the world, and is a cultural heritage shared by all humanity.
Ambassador Wang introduced 13 exquisite murals and 4 stunning sculptures replicas from the Dunhuang Academy, emphasizing the aim of the "small but exquisite" exhibition to showcase the "big and broad" cultural significance of Dunhuang.
Ambassador Wang pointed out that this year's Spring Festival is the first after Chinese New Year was recognized as World Heritage by the United Nations. And January 23 is the traditional Chinese festival of "Xiaonian," an important occasion for family reunions, symbolizing warmth and friendship. The Chinese New Year is a time to celebrate together! On this special occasion, Ambassador Wang extended his New Year wishes to all guests and expressed gratitude for their joining and celebrating together.
Mayor Tory Whanau of Wellington, and Chief Executive Mark Oldershaw of Whitireia & Weltec spoke highly of Chinese culture and recognized the long-standing friendship and cooperation between New Zealand and China. They highlighted their commitment to strengthening cultural and educational exchanges.
During the event, guests appreciated the Dunhuang Art Exhibition. Chinese international students were invited to show Chinese tea culture, perform Chinese traditional instrumental music such as the “Orchid Pavilion Preface” and “Dancing on the Silk Road,” and present Dunhuang dance and costume shows.