The 2025 International Forum on Mutual Learning Among Civilisations concluded at the Galaxy International Convention Centre in Cotai yesterday, with Cultural Affairs Bureau (IC) President Deland Leong Wai Man highlighting Macau’s ongoing role as a bridge for dialogue between Chinese and Western civilisations.
Addressing the closing ceremony, Leong thanked guests, scholars and supporting institutions, including the Ministry of Education, the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS) and the Chinese Academy of History for contributing to the successful organisation of the two-day, inaugural forum.
Leong said in her speech that the forum, themed “Mutual Learning Among Civilisations and Inheritance and Development,” featured keynote speeches, two parallel sub-forums and six academic salons, covering topics such as civilisational coexistence, cultural heritage protection, the practice of “One Country, Two Systems” and intercivilisational exchange.
She noted that the discussions during the forum demonstrated that Eastern and Western values may differ but remain capable of dialogue and mutual learning. “The key to civilisational dialogue lies in recognising differences and seeking common ground, rather than pursuing homogenisation,” she said, adding that respect for development paths shaped by each society’s history and culture was essential.
Leong also pointed out that Chinese civilisation’s long-standing values of “harmony without uniformity” and “peaceful coexistence among nations” offer useful reference frameworks for cross-cultural understanding.
“Hosting the forum in Macau was particularly meaningful,” she said, adding that 2025 also marks the 20th anniversary of the Historic Centre of Macau’s inscription on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Leong added that Macau’s mission in promoting civilisational dialogue “will continue unabated,” inviting scholars and visitors to return to the city to carry forward ongoing exchanges as Macau aims to strengthen its role as a window for mutual learning between civilisations.
Cultural Affairs Bureau (IC) President Deland Leong Wai Man addresses yesterday afternoon’s closing ceremony of the “2025 International Forum on Mutual Learning Among Civilisations” at the Galaxy International Convention Centre in Cotai. – Photo: Khalel Vallo
