By Mustafa Kuleli
President of Media Innovation Technology Association
Editor in Chief of Mediternews, TÜRKİYE
In a world increasingly shaped by division and misunderstanding, the idea of intercultural dialogue offers a path forward. As a journalist from Europe, I’ve spent many years studying different cultures, observing tensions, and searching for stories that bring people together. My recent journey to Jiangxi Province in China gave me not only new material to reflect on, but also a deep sense of hope.
It was my third visit to China, and perhaps the most meaningful one yet. Traveling through Nanchang, Jingdezhen, and Ganzhou, I was given the rare opportunity to observe both the beauty of the land and the spirit of its people. This trip brought one idea clearly into focus for me: porcelain is more than an object. It is a symbol of cultural dialogue. And through it, we can discover new tools for peaceful understanding and common development.
Nightfall in Nanchang
The journey began in Nanchang, where I was first struck by the breathtaking night scenery. The city, bathed in warm lights, felt alive yet calm. As we crossed the bridges, I sensed not only the rhythm of a modern city but also the heartbeat of a place deeply connected to its roots.
While lights reflected on the water and music played in the distance, I thought about how various cultures have always expressed themselves through art, architecture, and urban life. Nanchang felt like a living testament to China’s capacity to grow without forgetting its soul.
More Than Craftsmanship
From Nanchang, we traveled to Jingdezhen—the legendary “Porcelain Capital” of the world. This small city, with its long and proud history, became the highlight of our exploration.
At the Royal Kiln Museum and the Xujia Kiln, we were shown the complete journey of porcelain—from clay to finished art. I learned about the productive protection model used here. It blends tradition with innovation, craftsmanship with business, and heritage with sustainability. The handmade porcelain industry is being protected not only for tourism or nostalgia but as a living, evolving tradition that continues to generate value.
This model is something many countries can learn from. It proves that preserving the past does not mean resisting the future. In fact, the two can support each other.
As I walked among centuries-old kilns and held delicate cups painted with care, I understood something powerful. Porcelain, though fragile, survives for thousands of years. It has crossed continents, carried stories, and brought peoples together. In that way, it mirrors our hopes for global dialogue.
Artistic Expression
Next, we visited art fields and galleries dedicated to contemporary porcelain art. These spaces showcased works that are not only beautiful but carry meaning. We learned about national gift porcelain—the kind presented by state leaders to others during diplomatic meetings. These are not just gifts. They are statements of peace, friendship, and mutual respect.
I was deeply moved by this idea. A bowl or vase may seem small, but in the hands of an artist, it becomes a symbol of goodwill. Through porcelain, China is not just sharing its heritage—it is also inviting conversation. That is the heart of mutual understanding among peoples.
Sharing is Caring
In Mingfang Park’s North Factory, I had the chance to create my own piece of pottery. It was a simple, hands-on moment—but deeply symbolic. Sitting at the wheel, shaping the clay with my hands, I felt more than just the texture of earth. I felt connected—to the past, to the makers who came before me, and to the people beside me.
This experience reminded me of a truth we often forget: creating is an act of peace. When people make things, they are less likely to destroy. When people share what they make, they build bridges.
The Power of Trade
At Ceramic Expo City, I saw how far porcelain has come. From ancient art to international industry, the porcelain trade continues to connect China with the world. This kind of trade is not just economic—it’s cultural. Each product shipped overseas is an ambassador of Chinese heritage and innovation.
Standing there, I thought about Europe’s own traditions of ceramics and how our histories have intertwined for centuries. Cultural dialogue doesn’t always happen in conference rooms. It often happens silently—through trade, art, and curiosity.
A City of Renewal
Our journey ended in Ganzhou, a city that struck a balance between development and nature. Here, the integration of green spaces with modern infrastructure showed a commitment to sustainable growth. Ganzhou made it clear that modernization does not have to come at the cost of harmony. In fact, harmony can be its foundation.
This idea is also at the heart of cultural dialogue: we do not need to become the same to live in peace. We need to listen, learn, and respect our differences.
Peace and Mutual Growth
Throughout this trip, I kept asking myself: How can we promote peace in a time of global tension? How can nations speak to each other again?
Porcelain gave me the answer.
It is crafted with patience. It requires both fire and water. It is both strong and delicate. It is a powerful symbol for dialogue between cultures.
We need to shape our international relationships the same way. With patience, balance, and attention to detail. With mutual trust and shared values. With respect for our past and vision for our future.
A Shared Future
My time in Jiangxi taught me that culture is not just a thing we inherit. It is a living bridge. Through art, tradition, and shared experiences, we can connect across borders.
Europe and China have so much to learn from one another. Our differences are not barriers—they are gifts. Through platforms like the Belt and Road Journalists Forum, we can continue to learn, grow, and work together.
Let us take inspiration from porcelain. Let us become storytellers of peace and makers of dialogue. And let us commit to a future where cultures do not compete—but collaborate for the good of all humanity.
*The views and opinions expressed in the articles are solely those of the individual authors and do not reflect the position of the Secretariat of the Belt and Road Journalist Network.