The 3rd St Petersburg International Cultural Forum is being held Dec 6-9 in Russia. Chinese Cultural Minister Cai Wu, at the invitation of his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Medinsky, attended the opening ceremony and related activities.

For this occasion, UNESCO Director-General Irina Bokova, Russian officials and cultural ministers from nearly 40 countries attended the forum.

Cai, speaking at the opening ceremony, said different regions enjoy their unique cultures. And different cultures add color to this world. The Chinese have a common saying, “A man of dignity keeps harmony but seeks no oneness.” It shows that a dialogue between different cultures should be based on mutual respect. This forum, themed “People, Culture, World”, shows the importance of cultural diversity and presents a platform for different peoples to deepen understanding and friendship.

Cai and Medinsky held a talk on Sino-Russian cultural cooperation on Dec 7. Cai said both sides should strengthen cultural exchanges and cooperation under multilateral frames like BRICS countries, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and UNESCO. The two countries should constantly extend the areas of cooperation. Medinsky said Russia will take over the rotating presidency of the BRICS and SCO next year. It will provide more cooperative opportunities for the two countries to promote cultural exchanges.

During Cai’s visit in Russia, he was also invited to attend the 250th anniversary of the State Hermitage Museum.