Dunhuang: More than 1,200 representatives from 97 countries and eight international organizations have gathered at the 8th Silk Road (Dunhuang) International Cultural Expo, which kicked off on Sunday in Dunhuang, a key hub on the ancient Silk Road in northwest China.

According to Namibia Press Agency, the expo will continue until Monday and features activities such as cultural dialogues and exhibitions, as well as artistic performances to promote global cultural cooperation. Speaking at the event, Prasop Riangngoen, permanent secretary of the Ministry of Culture of the Kingdom of Thailand, highlighted Dunhuang as a symbol of the Silk Road, a hub where civilizations converge and arts learn from each other.

As the guest of honor at the expo in Gansu Province, Thailand is showcasing its cultural heritage and ethnic customs. Riangngoen noted the similarities between the murals of the Mogao Caves and temple murals in Thailand, pointing to a historical connection between the two countries.

The Mogao Caves, inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1987, are seen as extraordinary cultural heritage. Murals inside these caves demonstrate dialogues in religion, art, and thought along the Silk Road. Qu Xing, deputy director-general of UNESCO, emphasized their significance at the expo.

Dunhuang has historically been a gateway for trade and cultural exchange, an aspect that continues today as it serves China's Belt and Road Initiative. The expo, first held in 2016, showcases achievements in Dunhuang studies, cultural arts, and creative products.

Countries participating in the Belt and Road Initiative are highlighting their tourist attractions, customs, and intangible cultural heritage achievements at the expo.