Wang Hao, China Daily's deputy editor-in-chief, gives a speech during a culture lecture held on the cruise ship Majestic Princess on June 22, 2017. [Photo by Yang Feiyue/chinadaily.com.cn]

A culture workshop on Belt and Road drew the attention of Western passengers on the cruising trip of Majestic Princess on June 22.

On the maiden trip sailing along the ancient maritime Silk Road, some 7,000 passengers have enjoyed various events offered by Chinese artists, performers and scholars.

In his presentation, Wang Hao, China Daily’s deputy editor-in-chief, highlighted the significance of the Belt and Road Initiative from the perspective of cultural connectivity.

"The ancient Silk Road has always been a route of cultural exchange. China's initiative is the rejuvenation and update of Silk Road spirit," he said.

China Radio International’s deputy editor-in-chief Li Ping shared some traditional Chinese customs, including tea making, chopsticks and lucky numbers with the videos her colleagues produced.

“It’s very interesting to learn the Belt and Road history and I like all the interactions at the workshop," says David Ender from the US.

He has been helped to better understand China's Belt and Road ideas.

“It’s interesting to see that over the long period of time, China still wants to be culturally interactive, trade and increase the world’s wealth,” he said.

The Majestic Princess, departing from Rome on May 21, has sailed by key maritime countries, including Greece, the United Arab Emirates, India, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Thailand, and will end in China’s Xiamen on June 26.