On June 10, 2025, the world observed a historic milestone: the inaugural United Nations International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations.

At a time marked by escalating geopolitical tensions, technological disruption, and cultural misunderstanding, this day arrived not as a symbolic formality, but as a timely call for solidarity, mutual respect, and shared development.

In a video address to the global commemorative event, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi – representing a country long committed to intercultural exchange – reaffirmed the urgency of dialogue.

Quoting President Xi Jinping’s vision, he emphasized that: “civilizations are the bond of peace, the driver of development, and the bridge of friendship.”

His remarks encapsulated the essence of the Global Civilization Initiative, which President Xi proposed in 2023, calling for the promotion of common human values and mutual learning among civilizations.

The Value of Civilizations in a Changing World

As Minister Wang noted, the world is undergoing profound transformation. The “changes unseen in a century” are reshaping global dynamics and societal structures. In this context, civilizations are not just cultural relics; they are reservoirs of wisdom offering insights to address global challenges.

During a commemorative event held at the Chinese Embassy in Pretoria on June 12, South African leaders shared their perspectives on the relevance of civilizational dialogue in today’s world.

Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, Member of the ANC National Executive Committee and former Chairperson of the African Union Commission, emphasized that dialogue builds respect, friendship, and understanding – particularly among diverse civilizations.

“We learn from each other’s civilizations and from present challenges alike. We thank China for proposing this day at the UN, and we hope to learn more from their experience in lifting millions out of poverty.”

She stressed that peace is especially important for vulnerable populations: “Where there is peace, women are safe. Where there is war, it is women and children who suffer the most. So, peace through dialogue is critical – especially for women.”

Ambassador Gert Grobler, former senior South African diplomat and Honorary Professor at Zhejiang Normal University’s Institute of African Studies, praised the long-term vision behind President Xi’s initiative.

“This is a constructive move, an initiative by President Xi two years ago at the UN,” he said.  “Everything in this world revolves around dialogue. We need to talk more. We need to have more dialogue.”

Grobler added that the International Day serves as proof of China’s deep commitment to promoting global peace, development, and stability.“Equality, development, and people-to-people exchange – these are happening already and will continue under this important and constructive initiative.”

Professor Busani Ngcaweni, Director-General of South Africa’s National School of Government, highlighted shared values between China and South Africa, including the principle of resolving conflicts through diplomacy.

“A dialogue among civilizations means a dialogue among equals,” he noted. “It is based on mutual respect—something our two nations have always emphasized.”

Ngcaweni drew on his recent experience leading a governance training delegation to China, saying, “We are learning from China’s strategies for tackling poverty, inequality, and unemployment. But most importantly, we are learning how to govern more effectively.”

From Vision to Action

The adoption of the International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations by the 78th session of the UN General Assembly in June 2024 – jointly proposed by China and 82 other countries – reflects a growing global consensus. It institutionalizes a truth that has long been intuitive: understanding one another is the first step toward peaceful coexistence.

China’s support for hosting global platforms, along with its domestic efforts to enhance cultural exchange, including language learning and academic partnerships, underscores its commitment to building bridges, not walls.

A Shared Garden of Civilizations

As President Xi has said, “diversity spurs interaction among civilizations, which in turn promotes mutual learning and further development.” His metaphor of a “garden of world civilizations” reflects an inclusive vision, where different cultures flourish side by side, each adding their own unique beauty to the global landscape.

At a time when narrow nationalism and ideological polarization threaten global cohesion, initiatives like the Global Civilization Initiative offer much-needed hope. They challenge us to choose connection over confrontation and cooperation over conflict.

As a journalist based in Africa, I have witnessed how these ideas resonate deeply on the continent. From the Ubuntu philosophy of human interconnectedness to vibrant innovation ecosystems, Africa – like China – understands that civilizations thrive not in isolation but through dialogue.

On this first International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations, let us recommit to the principles of equality, respect, and cooperation. Let us build a world where diversity is not feared but celebrated, and where every voice adds meaning to our shared story.

⦁ Joyce-Yinan Zhao currently serves as the Acting Bureau Chief and Chief Correspondent of the CMG Johannesburg Bureau. With extensive experience working and reporting across the African continent, she has developed deep insights into the economic, cultural, and social cooperation between China and Africa. Drawing on her profound understanding of local cultures and her professional journalistic expertise, Joyce-Yinan Zhao is committed to presenting Africa’s authentic voices and remarkable stories to a global audience, while contributing to a broader media platform for China-Africa engagement.

* Yinan Zhao is Acting Bureau Chief and Chief Correspondent of China Media Group, Johannesburg Bureau

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