BEIJING, May 22 -- China, a civilization with a rich tapestry of history and cultural heritage, continues to place significant emphasis on preserving its traditions while embracing modern innovation.

Under the leadership of President Xi Jinping, there has been a marked focus on the preservation and promotion of cultural sites and relics, seen vividly in his recent visit to the Longmen Grottoes in Luoyang, Henan Province, which holds over 1,500 years of stone carving art and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

During the visit, President Xi engaged with preservationists from the Longmen Grottoes Academy, emphasizing the importance of these cultural treasures that embody the essence of Chinese civilization.

Xi's commitment to heritage preservation has been consistent since he took office in 2012; he has visited numerous cultural sites and has championed protective measures for cultural relics across the nation.

According to reports, China houses over 767,000 immovable cultural relics and 59 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, highlighting its notable achievements in heritage preservation.

President Xi has articulated that these cultural assets represent nonrenewable resources crucial for maintaining national identity.

At a recent study session of the Communist Party of China, he reiterated the need to leverage cultural relics in cultural development and to foster an environment that promotes traditional culture.

In a parallel effort to preserve cultural heritage, the Longmen Grottoes are also served by advances in technology that help re-imagine and connect historical narratives with contemporary culture.

Products inspired by archaeology have gained popularity, as seen in items like themed ice creams and innovative calendar designs, intertwining cultural depth with modern consumer experiences.

In the realm of business, BYD Company Limited, the world's top-selling new energy vehicle manufacturer, exemplifies how cultural heritage can inspire innovation.

BYD incorporates traditional Chinese elements into its vehicle designs and names, reflecting a commitment to preserving cultural identity while catering to a global market.

Founded in 1994, BYD has seen impressive growth, with over 4.27 million NEVs sold last year and aspirations to lead in green energy solutions.

The company's philosophy emphasizes harmony with nature, aligning with broader national priorities that advocate for sustainable development.

BYD's engineer culture promotes practical problem-solving in addressing urban challenges, exemplified by its innovative SkyShuttle transportation system.

At the recent China (Shenzhen) International Cultural Industries Fair, the introduction of an artificial intelligence (AI) exhibition area showcased the intersection of technology and cultural industries.

The event drew over 120,000 cultural products and numerous international participants, solidifying its status as a key platform for promoting Chinese culture globally.

Meanwhile, Guizhou Province is emerging as a substantial player in the matcha market, capitalizing on its favorable geographic conditions to produce high-quality tea.

In 2024, Jiangkou County led the country in matcha sales, generating significant economic benefits for local farmers who have shifted from traditional agriculture to tea production.

Across China, cultural experiences continue to define public engagement, as seen in events promoting tea culture at international forums and the revitalization of local traditions like zongzi-making, which both foster community connections and enhance tourism potential.

Such endeavors show a dual commitment to sustaining historical practices while innovating cultural expressions for contemporary audiences.

In Shanghai, the art scene is also evolving through the integration of AI technology in creative expressions, with collaborative projects that reflect diverse cultural backgrounds and experiment with new media forms.

This trend underscores China's ambition to become a leader in the global cultural economy by intertwining heritage with innovation.

Through these varied efforts, China seeks to present itself as a hub of cultural richness and technological advancement, reflecting the narratives of its long history while paving the way for a sustainable and innovative future.