Chongqing - "We look forward to engaging in diverse dialogues and collaborations with art colleges in Southeast Asian countries, integrating cultural heritage, artistic creation, and the development of cultural and tourism industries," said Jiao Xingtao, Vice President and Professor of Sichuan Fine Arts Institute (SCFAI).

He added that they hoped to explore new paths, experiences, and methods for communication and cooperation between universities in China and Southeast Asian countries.

The "Global Competence: China-Southeast Asia Forum on High-Level Education in Environment Design" was held at SCFAI in Southwest China's Chongqing on June 17. The forum invited esteemed leaders from renowned art institutions in China, Laos, Cambodia, and Thailand to come together to discuss the cultivation of high-level talent in environmental design in China and Southeast Asia.

On June 17, the "Global Competence: China-Southeast Asia Forum on High-Level Education in Environment Design" was held at Sichuan Fine Arts Institute in Southwest China's Chongqing. (Photo/Sichuan Fine Arts Institute)

The event also marked the launch ceremony of the International Workshop on Cultural Space Design of Stations Along the China-Laos Railway. Under the theme "The Beauty of Mutual Learning," the workshop delved into the design opportunities presented by cultural spaces along the China-Laos Railway. 

Chindavong Xaiyasin, Counsellor of Education and Culture of the Embassy of the Lao People's Democratic Republic, said, "The opening of the China-Laos Railway has brought numerous opportunities and challenges for both countries. As an important link between the two nations, the design of railway station spaces not only needs to meet practical requirements but also should reflect the cultural uniqueness and aesthetic value."

Chindavong Xaiyasin, Counsellor of Education and Culture of the Embassy of the Lao People's Democratic Republic, gave the speech. (Photo/Sichuan Fine Arts Institute)

"Through this workshop, we have the opportunity to collectively explore these spaces and transform them into hubs for cultural exchange, artistic creation, and spiritual connection," he added.

He also hopes to continue strengthening academic exchanges, promoting mutual visits and assistance between teachers and students, and jointly engaging in artistic research and project collaborations.

Daochinda Siharath, Chairman of the Lao National Railway, also said, "I believe that this international workshop will also have a glorious color in the long history of China and Lancang-Mekong cooperation and people-to-people exchanges."