By Khalid Taimur Akram
Editor-in-Chief of Jang & Geo Media Group, Pakistan
The 2025 Belt and Road Journalists Forum held in Jiangxi Province, China, from July 14 to July 20, was organized by the All-China Journalists Association under the theme “Promoting Civilizational Dialogues and Global Modernization with the Power of Journalists.” During the forum, international guests had the opportunity to explore Jiangxi Province through a week-long trip, gaining firsthand insights into China’s latest achievements in the fields of science and technology, ecological conservation, environmental protection, art, glorious history and cultural heritage. Participants also engaged in meaningful discussions and exchanges on these topics.
The journey through Jiangxi offered a profound first impression of Chinese culture. Experiencing China in this way left a deep and lasting impact on my understanding of heritage, development, and the shared values of humanity. As one of the world’s oldest continuous civilizations, China presents a legacy that is timeless and vibrant, deeply philosophical yet practical, and ever-evolving while rooted in thousands of years of tradition. In Jiangxi particularly in the cities of Ganzhou and Nanchang we witnessed the beauty of Chinese innovation and the spirit of harmony that guides its people. China, known as one of the “Four Cradles” of human civilization alongside Mesopotamia, Egypt, and the Indus Valley, has maintained over 5,000 years of uninterrupted cultural continuity. This remarkable endurance is not only a testament to its resilience but also a source of strength, offering valuable ideas for modern development.
Chinese culture, rooted in philosophies like Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism, emphasizes benevolence, righteousness, harmony, and compassion values that have universal relevance. Whether seen in the calm demeanor of the locals, the elegance of classical architecture, or the respectful etiquette of daily life, the influence of ancient wisdom is unmistakable. What struck me most was how these values continue to shape governance, development, and international cooperation especially through initiatives like the Global Civilization Initiative, which promotes peace, equity, and cross-cultural understanding.
Jiangxi’s contribution to modern China extends beyond economic infrastructure; it is a living embodiment of Chinese philosophical traditions, skillfully balancing rapid development with cultural and ecological preservation. This approach is exactly what the world needs today: a model of progress that neither compromises the planet nor human dignity. What amazed me most was how China’s investment in science and technology is guided not solely by competition but by a commitment to serving humanity and safeguarding our shared future. In places like Ganzhou, Jiujiang, and Nanchang, we saw how ancient wisdom and modern science converge to foster sustainable and inclusive growth.
Nanchang: A Modern Metropolis with a Revolutionary Heart
Nanchang, the capital of Jiangxi Province, is a vibrant city rich in culture, innovation, and history. Strategically located near the Yangtze River and Poyang Lake, it functions as both an economic powerhouse and a cultural hub. With modern infrastructure and deep historical roots, Nanchang is not just a capital but also is a living narrative of China’s journey through time. Towering above the Gan River, the Tengwang Pavilion glows majestically at night, symbolizing introspection and grace. It stands as a powerful reminder of Jiangxi’s literary and philosophical legacy. But Nanchang is not bound by its past; it is a pioneer of modern history as well, being the birthplace of the 1927 Nanchang Uprising, which marked the beginning of the People’s Liberation Army.
Today, Nanchang is a dynamic center of industries such as aviation, electromechanics, pharmaceuticals, and traditional Chinese medicine. Its pivotal role in the Belt and Road Initiative and the Yangtze River Economic Belt underscores its importance in regional and global connectivity. What stood out most was how the city’s growth is harmoniously aligned with eco-friendly urban planning, cultural preservation, and social wellbeing.
Visiting the Jiangxi Provincial Museum was another highlight. It beautifully showcased the depth and richness of Chinese culture, with exhibits ranging from ancient ceramics to revolutionary relics. Experiencing this continuity of civilization firsthand left a lasting impression on me.
Jiujiang: Nature and Cultural Importance
Jiujiang city hailed as the “land of charm,” left an indelible mark on everyone. It is situated between majestic mountains and the flowing Yangtze River, the city radiates a quiet elegance that reflects both natural beauty and cultural depth. Landmarks like Xunyang Tower, Pipa Pavilion, and Suojiang Tower echo the stories of dynasties past and poetic wisdom handed down through generations.
The mystical Dragon Palace Cave and Lion Cave, along with the awe-inspiring Lushan Mountain a UNESCO World Heritage Site offered a deeply spiritual and ecological experience. Lushan’s cloud-capped peaks, rare botanical treasures, and historic significance make it the soul of Jiujiang. Strolling down Guling Street and visiting the Lushan Botanical Garden further deepened my appreciation for the harmony between nature and humanity.
Modern projects such as the Jiujiang Territorial Spatial Planning Exhibition Hall and the Shuangxi Park Urban Water Environment Project demonstrate how tradition and progress coexist. The Yangtze River National Cultural Park also highlighted China’s rural revitalization efforts and sustainable development goals.
Cultural highlights like the Jiujiang Tea Market, Songmo Homestay Industry, and a mesmerizing Intangible Cultural Heritage performance at Ruqin Lake showcased the rich lifestyle and creativity of the local people. From visiting Sinopec Jiujiang Company to exploring the lively “Jiujiang by Night” district, city deeply rooted in tradition yet confidently embracing the future. Jiujiang is more than a city and is a living museum of Chinese spirit, innovation, and natural grace.
The Chinese development model proves that a society can progress without abandoning its roots. On the contrary, it draws strength from them. This balance between innovation and tradition is what makes China’s path so unique and instructive for the world. The journey through Jiangxi is an encounter with a philosophy of life that values harmony without uniformity, respects all civilizations, and promotes peace through understanding.
China’s cultural diplomacy does not seek dominance but dialogue. It invites the world to engage, learn, and build a shared future for humanity. This approach grounded in compassion, wisdom, and mutual respect positions China as a strong advocate for global peace, equity, and inclusive development. In an era marked by uncertainty and division, China’s ability to harmonize past and present, and tradition with innovation, offers hope and valuable guidance. Jiangxi Province is full of beautiful landscapes and architecture, but also beauty of thought, balance in action, and wisdom in progress. Jiangxi is not just a cultural experience but also a hopeful vision of what humanity can achieve when it draws on its deepest roots to shape its brightest future.
*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.