The third Asia Cultural Forum took place in Fuzhou, Fujian province on Nov 9, with more than 100 cultural experts on hand to share insights on the theme of "The Belt and Road Initiative and Asian Culture".

The third Asia Cultural Forum opens in Fuzhou, Fujian province on Nov 9. [Photo by Hu Meidong/chinadaily.com.cn]

Chinese writer Mo Yan, the winner of the 2012 Nobel Prize in Literature, delivered a speech at the forum. He commented that "The Belt and Road Initiative raised by Chinese President Xi Jinping will surely exert great influence around the globe. The Silk Road is not only a route for trade, but also a platform for enhancing political and cultural exchanges and promoting friendship."

"Innovation is vital to all the industries, including the culture and art sectors. However, without serious thinking and analysis it will be an empty slogan," he added.

Nobel Prize laureate Mo Yan delivers a speech at the forum. [Photo by Hu Meidong/chinadaily.com.cn]

The forum also featured a speech by well-known Chinese writer Yu Qiuyu, who believes that cultural diversity makes the world more colorful.

The forum was also attended by representatives of Asia Cooperation Dialogue (ACD) member countries, including Japan, South Korea, Cambodia, Indonesia, Vietnam, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait.

As an important part of the 14th Asia Arts Festival, the third Asia Cultural Forum was aimed at strengthening cultural communication among Asian countries and promoting cultural diversity.

The Belt and Road Initiative proposed by President Xi Jinping during visits to Central and Southeast Asia in 2013 is expected to promote an orderly free flow of trade, a highly efficient allocation of resources, and a deep integration of markets by enhancing connectivity among Asia, Europe and Africa.