A performance at the exhibition zone in Dunhuang, Gansu province. [Photo/Lanzhou Evening News]

The 8th Silk Road (Dunhuang) International Cultural Expo concluded on Sept 22 in Dunhuang, Gansu province, setting a new record in international participation.

The event attracted over 1,200 guests from 97 countries and eight international organizations, including UNESCO and the World Bank, marking its highest attendance yet.

The expo featured a series of cultural exhibitions and artistic performances. Key displays included the Dunhuang Academy's achievements in cultural conservation and digital reconstruction, with digital caves proving particularly popular.

Additional exhibitions highlighted over 10,000 cultural products from Gansu province and more than 2,000 traditional artifacts from 13 countries, facilitating international cultural dialogue.

Artistic highlights included the premiere of the upgraded Legend on the Silk Road dance drama and performances involving 13 art troupes from five countries, which celebrated the spirit of cultural exchange.

The expo also yielded significant economic outcomes, with promotion activities leading to the signing of 74 projects worth a total of 16.27 billion yuan ($2.28 billion) in sectors like tourism and cultural industries.

After being held successfully eight times, the expo continues to grow in global influence, actively supporting the Belt and Road Initiative through cultural diplomacy.