Dunhuang in Gansu province once again captured global attention as it hosted the 8th Silk Road (Dunhuang) International Cultural Expo from Sept 20 to 22.

This year, the event saw participation from representatives of 97 countries and eight international organizations, making it the largest gathering in the expo's history.

Thailand, this year's guest country of honor, highlighted its deep cultural connections with Dunhuang, noting similarities between Dunhuang murals and Thai temple art.

Cultural performances highlighted the region's enduring influence, including an upgraded version of the classic dance drama Legend on the Silk Road featuring holographic technology and musical collaborations blending pipa — an instrument introduced via the Silk Road — with other ethnic instruments.

The expo also featured cultural displays from Pakistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan.

Dancers perform Legend on the Silk Road in Dunhuang, Gansu province, on Sept 20. [Photo/silkroadexpo.gogansu.com]

The event underscored Dunhuang's global cultural significance. Since the 1900 discovery of the Library Cave, or Cave 17 of the Mogao Caves, Dunhuang artifacts have gained worldwide attention from scholars.

The Dunhuang Academy, celebrating its 80th anniversary this year, now oversees six major grotto sites and shares conservation expertise with over 150 locations across China and countries involved in the Belt and Road Initiative.

Visitors learn about the Dunhuang Academy's cultural heritage conservation achievements in Dunhuang, Gansu province, on Sept 21. [Photo/silkroadexpo.gogansu.com]

Experts said that Dunhuang's legacy transcends national boundaries, offering a model for cultural preservation and international dialogue.

Future plans include expanding Dunhuang's global reach through digital media, film, and creative industries to better share its cultural stories with the world.