The Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) National Committee, China's top political advisory body, held a press conference at 3pm on Monday, one day before the opening of its annual session.
Liu Jieyi, the spokesperson for the 14th CPPCC National Committee's third session, provided the media with an overview of the political advisory body's efforts in promoting fine traditional Chinese culture over the past year.
He pointed out that the CPPCC is deeply rooted in China's fine traditional culture and has been actively engaged in promoting its creative transformation and innovative development. The CPPCC has gathered a wide range of suggestions to contribute to the construction of a culturally strong country.
“China's fine traditional culture embodies the profound spiritual yearnings of its people. This cultural legacy serves as a precious wellspring, nurturing the continual advancement and transformation of the country,” he said.
Liu noted that last year, CPPCC members visited Shandong province, Shanxi province, Henan province, and some other place to conduct in-depth research at museums, cultural heritage sites, ancient city districts, research institutions and universities. They held discussions with frontline cultural and museum workers to gain a detailed understanding of the progress of such key cultural projects as the project to trace the origins of Chinese civilization. Based on their findings, they proposed suggestions to rejuvenate cultural heritage with a modern essence.
To foster the prosperity of cultural initiatives and industries, CPPCC members engaged in extensive interactions with officials from relevant departments. Building on a solid understanding of current policies, they reached consensus on promoting systematic protection of cultural heritage and improving the modern cultural industry system. Their proposals have been highly valued and adopted by relevant authorities.
In addition, to guide the public in establishing a correct historical perspective on the country, the CPPCC organized experts to compile the book 100 Facts on History and Culture of the Community for the Chinese Nation.
This book vividly elucidates the profound meanings behind the unity and diversity of the Chinese country, and it has been acknowledged as a notable accomplishment in the examination and portrayal of Chinese civilization by the national historical community, Liu added.
After the Spring Festival was included in UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage in December, China now leads the world with 44 entries in UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage projects.
"That shows the immense charm of traditional Chinese culture," Liu said.
Over the course of this year's Spring Festival, there has been a 150% increase in inbound tourists compared to the previous year, marking a record high. Embracing Chinese New Year traditions has evolved into a fashionable trend, with foreign visitors choosing to stay in local accommodations, don traditional hanfu, explore temple fairs, savor dumplings, and fully engage in an immersive experience of Chinese culture, he added.
