The Sino-Italian Dialogue on Urban Civilization 2025 convened in Rome on Sunday, bringing together government officials, scholars, think tank experts, and urban management professionals from both countries.
Held under the theme “Cultural Continuity and the Construction of Urban Civilization,” the forum explored how cultural heritage can inspire and shape future urban development.
“This dialogue between China and Italy represents not only a cross-temporal exchange of civilizations, but also an intellectual journey toward a shared future,” said Hu Kaihong, deputy director of the General Office of the Central Commission for Guiding Cultural and Ethical Progress.
A key outcome of the event was the official launch of the Italy–China Joint Center for City Civilization. The inauguration featured addresses by Chinese representative Han Xu, vice president of the China Academy of Art, and Italian representative Alberto Bradanini, former Italian Ambassador to China.
The official launch of the Italy–China Joint Center for City Civilization is held during the Sino-Italian Dialogue on Urban Civilization 2025 in Rome, Italy, September 28, 2025. /CGTN
Two thematic panels were also held. The first, “Integration of Civilizations: Cultural Inheritance and Development in Urban Spaces,” examined how cultural legacy influences urban spatial development. The second, “Urban Development: Sustainable Futures through Governance Innovation,” analyzed governance models and sustainable urban practices.
More than ten experts and scholars from both countries shared insights, exchanged perspectives, and explored collaborative pathways for future urban development.
The dialogue is seen as a concrete implementation of the China-proposed Global Civilization Initiative, underscoring both nations’ mutual commitment to advancing the evolution of urban civilization.
Organizers stressed that the initiative not only establishes a high-level platform for exchange among scholars, policymakers and practitioners, but also strengthens the China-Italy strategic partnership, injecting positive energy and stability into a rapidly changing world.
