Patrick Ho Chi-ping, Deputy Chairman and Secretary-General of China Energy Fund Committee

Ho said this discussion and other efforts need to focus on how culture enriches our lives, history and civilization and the important role it plays in sustainable development.

Swedish diplomat Jan Eliasson, deputy secretary general of the UN, said the critical value of culture is obvious. It's one reason why "violent extremists are targeting cultural sites to rob a people of their history," he said.

Development can open the door to people-to-people diplomacy. "Cultural exchanges can help to overcome the 'us and them' syndrome," said Eliasson.

Nassir Abdulaziz Al-Nasser, the UN high representative for the Alliance of Civilizations, said culture was a unique reflection of daily life through the arts, literature, music, dance and theater.

He said many groups can play an effective role in shaping culture, including non-governmental organizations, government, nonprofits and business. By shaping culture, they are allowing societies and communities to remain connected as technology races forward.

In his concluding remarks, Ho said China has recognized that cultural awareness is vital. "Far from fearing what lies ahead, China looks forward to the future," he said, due in part to an appreciation of culture.

"Let us embrace a model of development based on mutual respect and avoid the winner-takes-all mentality," Ho said.

paulwelitzkin@chinadailyusa.com