Chongqing - During the 2024 Belt and Road Journalists Forum, Bridging New sat down with Yophiandi Kurniawan, Deputy of International Relations for the Indonesian Cyber Media Network. Kurniawan, visiting Chongqing for the first time, was captivated by the city's historical and cultural significance, particularly its connection to the ancient Shu Kingdom from the Three Kingdoms period. He expressed his enthusiasm for sharing Chongqing's rich cultural heritage with global audiences. He emphasized the importance of the Belt and Road Initiative as a modern-day "magic spell" for fostering not just economic exchange but also vital communication between nations.

"This is my first time in Chongqing," Kurniawan said. "The city is very famous back home, especially thanks to TikTok videos showcasing Hongya Cave and the Liziba Station. But after coming here, I realize Chongqing is so much more than that."

As a fan of the Three Kingdoms, Kurniawan was thrilled to discover historical sites like the Zhang Fei Temple in Chongqing's Yunyang County. "I was surprised to see Zhang Fei on the screen during dinner. When I asked if it was the same Zhang Fei from Three Kingdoms, the answer was yes! This is the home of the Three Kingdoms," he exclaimed, noting that both the Shu Kingdom and figures from the Wu Kingdom, such as Gan Ning, had ties to the region.

Kurniawan also praised the role of the Western China International Communication Organization (WCICO) in highlighting the development of southwestern China, particularly Chongqing. "Western China, especially Chongqing, can be more proactive in connecting with the world. The WCICO is doing great work in showcasing how this region is developing."

Reflecting on the significance of the Belt and Road Initiative, Kurniawan likened it to a "magic spell" for new development, akin to a modern Silk Road. "It's not just about economic exchange, but about communication. Even if the economy struggles, communication will keep going. That's the real meaning of the Belt and Road Initiative," he said. "It's a communication forum that builds bridges for understanding, which is the first step towards friendship. And as friends, you become more tolerant and more empathetic. This is what the Belt and Road should enhance in the future."

(Huang Zhuoyue, as an intern, also contributed to the report.)