The forum—a key component of the Second Golden Panda Awards that honored outstanding film and television works—brought together guests from home and abroad, who shared their insights.  

 

More than just a celebration of excellence, the event represents a profound dialogue among the world’s civilizations and opens a window to an open, inclusive and innovative China in the era of globalization. 

 

Wang Xiaohui, Secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Sichuan Provincial Committee, addressed the cultural forum, emphasizing Sichuan’s role as a cradle of Chinese civilization. From the ancient wonders of Sanxingdui (a Bronze Age archaeological site in Sichuan) to today’s creative screen productions, Sichuan continues to connect cultures, he told the forum.  

 

Shen Haixiong, Vice Minister of the Publicity Department of the CPC Central Committee and President of China Media Group, highlighted film’s unique power to transcend borders. He cited Ne Zha, a global box-office hit inspired by traditional Chinese culture, as an example of how Chinese stories can resonate worldwide. Another example he mentioned is the recently premiered The Moon and Beyond, which explores humanity’s shared dream of cosmic exploration and planetary protection.   

 

Drawing upon the wisdom of the ancient Chinese sage Confucius, former Greek Prime Minister George Papandreou emphasized that true harmony arises from respect for differences, not uniformity. He stressed that in an age of rapid advances in AI, biotechnology and nuclear energy, empathy and cooperation are more essential than ever to building a just and prosperous future for all. 

 

Acclaimed Chinese director Chen Kaige called for breaking down cognitive barriers: “Only when we open ourselves to other cultures, lives and values can the flow of civilization truly begin.” 

 

Swiss actor and director Vincent Perez, drawing from his own multicultural background, added: “True collaboration begins when we sit together and listen.” 

 

Together, their voices reinforced the mission of the Golden Panda Awards: To foster mutual understanding through the universal language of cinema, and to illuminate Chengdu’s role as a hub of global cultural dialogue.