Young scholars and media professionals attend a reading salon in Shaoxing on Sept 18. [Photo provided to ezhejiang.gov.cn]

Young scholars and media professionals from China, Pakistan, India, Russia, and other countries gathered on Sept 18 in Shaoxing, Zhejiang province — the hometown of literary icon Lu Xun — for a reading salon titled "Reading Across Borders: From Baicao Garden to the World".

Lu Xun (1881–1936), one of modern China's most influential writers, spent his childhood in Shaoxing, where the now-famous Baicao Garden featured prominently in his early essays and later became a symbol of his intellectual roots.

The event explored how literature can foster cross-cultural understanding and promote global cooperation.

Chaired by Li Shuangwu, executive director and editor-in-chief of the Contemporary World Press, the salon welcomed more than 20 young delegates from political parties and media organizations.

Zhuo Guangping, professor at Shaoxing University, delivered a keynote lecture, Lu Xun: A Bridge Between Chinese and World Literature, examining the international reach and lasting influence of Lu Xun's work.

Young scholars and media professionals attend a reading salon in Shaoxing on Sept 18. [Photo provided to ezhejiang.gov.cn]

Following the discussion, participants toured local landmarks, including sites related to cultural heritage and grassroots governance.

Organizers expressed hope that the initiative will lead to new collaborations in literary translation, youth exchange, and joint publishing, strengthening people-to-people ties and contributing to a shared global future.