Dunhuang holds launch ceremony for biographical book

A new book titled "Dunhuang: The Biography" was unveiled at a launch event in Dunhuang, northwestern China's Gansu province, on Sunday.

The ceremony brought together representatives from government agencies, academia, and the literary and arts fields. The book, published by New Star Press under China International Communications Group (CICG), is part of a series on cities along the Belt and Road route.

Lu Cairong, vice president of China International Communications Group (CICG), speaks at a book launch in Dunhuang, Gansu province, on Sept. 17, 2023. [Photo/CICG]

Lu Cairong, vice president of CICG, said Dunhuang boasts profound history and culture, and has made remarkable contributions to cultural exchange between China and the rest of the world.

Lu noted that the book encapsulates the history of Dunhuang and demonstrates the significance of the city in the Chinese civilization. He said that the book will enhance both Chinese and foreign readers' understanding of the city.

Lian Ji, former president of the Chinese National Academy of Arts, spoke highly of the collection of biographies on cities along the Belt and Road route. Lian said he believes the series will facilitate mutual learning among different civilizations and promote people-to-people exchange.

The book launch of "Dunhuang: The Biography" is held in Dunhuang, Gansu province, on Sept. 17, 2023. [Photo/CICG]

With over 60 city biographies now, the collection is the world's first book series that explores the distinctive culture and history of cities along the Belt and Road route.