On May 18, to mark the 50th anniversary of China-Thailand diplomatic relations and coincide with International Museum Day, the "3rd China-ASEAN Cultural Exchange Event" was launched simultaneously in Bangkok, Thailand, at the Reignwood East-West Cultural Exchange Center (ASEAN), and in Beijing, China, at the Reignwood Eco Park. The event was hosted by the Reignwood Cultural Foundation and co-organized by China News Service International Communication Group.

With the theme "Mutual Learning of Civilizations, Building a Bright China-Thailand Future," the event aligned with this year's International Museum Day focus - exploring how museums, as vital connectors, innovators, and guardians of cultural identity, resonate with a rapidly changing society. Serving as a bridge for China-Thailand cultural exchange, the event featured a "Twin-City Dialogue on Heritage Protection Under Natural Disasters," a "Central Axis in Light and Shadow: Ancient Chinese Architectural Splendor" thematic exhibition, and cultural performances -together forming the "Three Ones" cultural initiative.

Strengthening platform for China-Thailand cultural exchange

At the opening ceremony, Shi Guangsheng, former president of the China-Thailand Friendship Association, officially inaugurated the event. Liang Yixiang, Minister-Counselor of the Royal Thai Embassy in China, remarked in his speech: "As we celebrate the 50th anniversary of Thailand-China diplomatic relations, the socio-economic bonds built over half a century—particularly the profound cultural ties—perfectly embody the spirit of 'China and Thailand as one family.'"

Phonpimon Wiphatphumiprat, Deputy Minister of Culture of Thailand, noted that the event, held at this pivotal moment of the 50th anniversary, represents the lasting and strong relationship between the two nations, especially their deep cultural integration, which has long served as a bridge connecting their peoples. The event aims to promote cooperation in culture, arts, and architectural heritage preservation, showcasing the rich cultural roots of ASEAN. These achievements, as invaluable heritage for future generations, deserve to be cherished and celebrated.

Lu Zhan, Secretary-General of the Reignwood Cultural Foundation, said on behalf of the organizers: "We hope this series of initiatives will advance cultural exchange from concept to practice, from dialogue to co-creation, infusing deeper and enduring cultural momentum into China-Thailand friendship. This platform will also bring together diverse cultural and professional forces to explore culture's profound role in sustainable development, disaster response, and educational enlightenment."

Jing Feng, Cultural Program Specialist at UNESCO Bangkok, emphasized that "the goal of this event is to build a better future and foster mutual learning among civilizations. Such efforts are crucial not only for Asia but for the entire world. We must uphold the fundamental value of cross-cultural exchange and dialogue in shaping a just, sustainable, and prosperous future."

Promoting cultural exchange through co-creation and sharing



Following the opening ceremony, Professor Lü Zhou from Tsinghua University presented a keynote speech titled "History and World Heritage Nomination of Beijing's Central Axis," systematically explaining the 12-year journey of Beijing's Central Axis—now recognized as a World Heritage site—as the "Axis of Eastern Civilization."

Thai heritage expert Hatthaya Siriphatthanakun discussed Thailand's innovative approaches to ancient site restoration and sustainable development, focusing on Ayutthaya's conservation practices, traditional water management, and disaster resilience building.

A notable feature of the event was the "Central Axis in Light and Shadow: Ancient Chinese Architectural Splendor" photo and model exhibition, displayed simultaneously in Beijing and Bangkok. Featuring works by renowned artists - Yuan Yiping (Lifetime Achievement Award winner of China Photography Golden Statue), Mei Sheng (World Heritage visual scholar), and Lin Mingshu (cross-disciplinary architectural photographer)- the exhibition chronicled the cultural evolution and historical imprints of Beijing's Central Axis over a century, reflecting the resilience and continuity of urban civilization.

Deepening China-ASEAN cultural exchange

In 2023, China and 10 Asian nations established the Asian Cultural Heritage Protection Alliance. That same year, the Reignwood East-West Cultural Exchange Center (ASEAN), initiated by Mr. Yan Bin (founder and honorary chairman of the Reignwood Cultural Foundation) and supported by the foundation, was completed after 1,000 days of construction. Replicating Beijing's Summer Palace's Renshou Hall at a 1:1 scale and built jointly by Chinese and Thai craftsmen, it stands as the largest traditional Chinese wooden structure ever constructed overseas using ancient techniques.

To better tell China's stories and amplify its voice, the China-ASEAN Cultural Exchange Event has been held annually on International Museum Day (May 18) for three consecutive years. From 2023's "Silk Road Splendor: Crafting Dreams with Ingenuity" to 2024's "Embracing the Future Through Heritage" and this year's "Mutual Learning of Civilizations, Building a Bright China-Thailand Future," the event has evolved from a platform for new-era international cultural exchange to a catalyst for youth education and deeper collaboration.this "Heritage Protection + Cultural Exchange + Platform" model is poised to become a new benchmark for narrating China's stories to the world.