“People are of vital importance,” said Zhou Yunliang, chargé d’affaires of the Chinese Embassy in Cyprus, speaking on Friday at the seminar Mirror of Culture – Enhancing Inter-Civilization Dialogue between China and Cyprus.

The event was jointly organised by the embassy and the Cyprus Mail.

Held to mark the 54th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries, the seminar featured speeches and lively discussions, bringing together artists, political figures and academics from both sides to reflect on shared cultural values and heritage.

Launched in 2023, the Mirror of Culture column has published more than 20 articles highlighting parallels between Cypriot and Chinese traditions, ranging from intangible cultural heritage and martial arts to ancient trade routes and traditional medicine.

Zhou underlined the column’s role in promoting mutual understanding and appreciation through thoughtful and engaging perspectives.

He identified four key areas of focus: classical philosophical thought and its contemporary relevance, leaders’ accountability to the public, harmony between humanity and nature and joint efforts to advance global security and development.

“When the foundation is strong, the state is at peace, as people are of vital importance,” Zhou said, calling for closer cooperation to safeguard international order and open a new chapter in bilateral relations.

Cyprus Mail CEO Freda Yannitsas described culture as a “reflection corridor” for exchange, one that honours wisdom and continuity in an increasingly fragmented world.

She emphasised the importance of sustained dialogue at the “crossroads of ideas” and proposed expanding the column to cover additional topics such as education, medicine and other fields.

Academic Ksenia Kozha, meanwhile, highlighted the need to engage younger generations in cultural and political dialogue. She stressed the importance of fostering a more people-centred approach in both countries.