The Xi'an leg of the Global Civilization Dialogue: "Rendezvous with the Orchid" international exchange event kicked off on Sept 7.

As a major international cultural award initiated by the China International Communications Group, the Orchid Awards honor foreign individuals and institutions dedicated to Chinese and international cultural exchanges. The event has brought together more than 20 final-round judges, nominees, and international social media influencers from various countries, including Cambodia, Germany, and Brazil to participate in the third Orchid Awards and embark on a four-day study tour.

The delegation first visited the Xi'an Museum, which integrates cultural relic collection, academic research, and public education, and traces Xi'an's urban development from the Zhou (c. 11th century–256 BC) to the Ming and Qing (1369–1911) dynasties, serving as a vital window for presenting the history of Chang'an and Silk Road civilizations to the world.

The delegation visits Xi'an Museum. [Photo/Xi'an news network]

Peter Ditmanson, a professor from the United States at Hunan University's Yuelu Academy, has long-standing ties with Xi'an. He first visited the city back in 1987 and has witnessed its transformation over decades. "My research focuses on the Ming and Qing dynasties. This time I came to Xi'an to learn about the history of the Han (206 BC–220) and Tang (618-907) dynasties. On each visit, I can see steady progress in cultural heritage conservation here."

The delegation proceeded to the Chang'an Twelve Hours themed block, where they watched live performances recreating Tang‑dynasty palace scenes. Many delegates said that, having visited numerous historic and cultural cities across the world, they found Xi'an's approach to cultural revitalization refreshing and innovative.

The delegates watch a live performance. [Photo/Xi'an news network]

The delegates will conduct in-depth visits to Xi'an's sci-tech enterprises and historic and cultural landmarks, and take part in high-end international dialogue salons. They will further explore Xi'an's achievements in cultural inheritance, scientific and technological innovation, and opening-up, and continue to advance exchanges and mutual learning between Chinese and foreign civilizations.