Various performances staged during the 6th Silk Road (Dunhuang) Cultural International Expo in 2023 [Photo provided to gogansu.com]

The 7th Silk Road (Dunhuang) International Cultural Expo is set to take place from Sept 20 to 22 in Dunhuang, Gansu province, with the opening ceremony scheduled for the morning of Sept 21.

Since its inception in 2016, the expo has been held six times, attracting over 6,000 guests from more than 120 countries and regions, including government leaders and heads of international organizations from over 20 countries. The Expo has become a significant platform for advancing the Belt and Road Initiative, enhancing the influence of Chinese culture, and building a community with a shared future for mankind.

This year's Expo is themed "Implementing the Global Civilization Initiative, Deepening Cultural Exchange and Mutual Learning." In line with this theme, the event will feature 18 activities across five key areas: the opening ceremony, the Dunhuang Forum, cultural exhibitions, artistic performances, and investment promotion.

Highlights include the China-Uruguay photography art exchange exhibition and the "Meet in Dunhuang" international cultural exchange performance.

In preparation for the event, Dunhuang has adorned Yangguan Avenue with lightbox logos and caisson elements of the Expo. Elements from the Dunhuang murals, such as caissons, mythical creatures, and musical instruments, have been painted on the walls, ground, and utility boxes along the city's main roads. This immersive display ensures that visitors can experience the unique charm of "Millennium in a Glance, A Glance at Dunhuang" at every turn.