On August 28th, over 20 leaders from journalist organizations and media outlets representing 13 countries visited the Dazu Rock Carvings, gaining a deeper understanding of the history and artistic value of Chongqing’s only World Cultural Heritage site.
They are one of the four media teams of the Belt and Road Journalists Network (BRIJN), participating in the 2024 Belt and Road Journalists Forum in Chongqing. During the visit to the Dazu Rock Carvings in Chongqing, Sudewa Hettiarachchi, President of the Sri Lanka-China Journalists’ Forum, suggested that increased collaboration between Sri Lankan and Chinese journalists could raise global awareness through joint projects like documentaries and videos, further enhancing the protection and appreciation of these historic sites.
The shared heritage of both countries as members of the 21st-Century Maritime Silk Road was also highlighted as a potential avenue for cultural promotion.
Sudewa admired the ancient sculptures’ intricate details and profound spiritual significance. He compared the Dazu Rock Carvings and similar Buddhist sites in Sri Lanka, noting that both sites share spiritual themes.
A journalist was photographing the Dazu Rock Carvings. (Photo/Huxin Luo)
Puy Kea, President of the Club of Cambodian Journalists, emphasized the importance of cultural exchange between Cambodia and China, particularly through media collaboration. He proposed using films and media to promote tourism and cultural understanding, noting the influence of Chinese cinema in Cambodia.
Puy Kea stressed the role of journalists as cultural ambassadors who can effectively convey messages and foster stronger ties between the two nations, advocating for continued exchanges and cooperation to promote mutual understanding and cultural heritage globally.
