[Video/Hi New Horizon]

A dialogue on cultural exchange and mutual learning between Ningbo and Colombo was held in Sri Lanka's capital on July 4, bringing together officials, scholars, and business representatives from China and Sri Lanka to discuss cooperation between the two historic port cities.

The event, titled "Encounter & Enlighten" Ningbo and Colombo Dialogue, featured an academic forum on cultural development in port cities. Discussions covered topics such as the Maritime Silk Road, port-city integration, green port development, and cross-cultural communication.

Speakers highlighted the long history of exchanges between China and Sri Lanka, tracing connections through maritime trade, archaeology, and cultural interaction. Sri Lankan scholars pointed to discoveries of Chinese coins, ceramics, and shipwreck remains as evidence of centuries of contact between the two countries.

Chinese experts drew on Ningbo's maritime heritage and development experience to explore future cooperation opportunities. Topics included smart and low-carbon port development, integrated planning of ports and cities, and the growth of marine-related industries.

Beyond academic discussions, participants proposed practical areas for collaboration. Suggestions included exchanges between young artists, joint tourism initiatives, research into maritime culture, smart-port cooperation, and business forums aimed at strengthening economic ties.

Fatima Jerosha Iftikhar Ahmed, an assistant professor at the University of Nottingham Ningbo China, highlighted the role of the circular economy and sustainable urban development in helping coastal cities balance growth with environmental protection.

Participants also discussed the use of digital storytelling and social media to promote the shared maritime heritage of the two cities and strengthen people-to-people connections.