A Blue and White Porcelain Art Journey of Young Leaders of the Silk Road

APAC Focus team Derek Cheung (Co-Program Director), Leonard Luk (Co-Program Director), Aaron H L Wong (Co-Program Director), and Bryan L. (Program Director), in collaboration with the Legislative Council Members' Office, Hong Kong SAR and the Hong Kong SAR Legislative Councilor, the Honorable Dr. Simon Hoey Lee, Medal of Honour and Justice of the Peace, organized a seminar on April 3, 2025, commemorating the 12th Anniversary of the Belt and Road Initiative. 

Titled "A Blue and White Porcelain Art Journey of Young Leaders of the Silk Road," the event highlighted Hong Kong's significant role in fostering cultural exchange and regional cooperation under the Belt and Road framework.

The seminar brought together young leaders from Hong Kong and law students from Kathmandu School of Law, Nepal, and National Law College, Tribhuvan University, Nepal, to explore the cultural legacy of Chinese Blue and White Porcelain through an interactive art-making session. The Nepalese students, who had been preparing for an international commercial arbitration moot competition in Hong Kong, were supported by sponsors to participate in this cross-cultural initiative. Their involvement underscored the importance of nurturing global connections through shared learning experiences.

Arts play a pivotal role in fostering regional dialogue and cultural appreciation by serving as a universal language that transcends barriers such as geography, language, and politics. Through creative expression, arts provide a platform for individuals and communities to share their unique cultural identities while finding common ground with others. In the context of initiatives like the Belt and Road, arts act as a bridge, connecting diverse regions and promoting mutual understanding.

The workshop extended to preserving intangible cultural heritage, with participants exchanging ideas on how traditional art forms like Blue and White Porcelain can inspire modern creative endeavors. The event exemplified the core values of the Belt and Road Initiative—mutual learning, cultural understanding, and respect—while celebrating the enduring legacy of artistic traditions in fostering international dialogue.

The event received support from MythicMint Capital, China United Oil Petroleum Group Co., Ltd., CR Enterprise Han+ Cultural Experience Center, and H.K.F.S. Fund. These organizations played a crucial role in ensuring the event's success.