The second edition of the World Conference on China Studies got underway in east China's Shanghai on Tuesday with the theme "Historical and Contemporary China: A Global Perspective."

Approximately 500 renowned experts and scholars from around the world will engage in in-depth discussions on this theme. The conference features various forums, activities and an exhibition focused on urban civilization.

Li Shulei, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and head of the Publicity Department of the CPC Central Committee, attended the conference and delivered a keynote speech.

Chen Jining, a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and secretary of the CPC Shanghai Municipal Committee, also attended the event.

Guests from home and abroad noted that Chinese studies must view Chinese civilization as an organically unified whole, examining the country's socio-economic-political landscape within a broader historical and cultural framework.

The participants emphasized the importance of elucidating the Chinese path to modernization to present the world a true, multidimensional and holistic narrative of China. They also pledged support for the Global Civilization Initiative, aiming to serve as envoys who bridge civilizations and drive greater mutual learning and exchange.

The sub-forums will address topics such as Chinese modernization, China studies in the era of digital intelligence, and the role of youth in the future of China studies, among other subjects.

The conference, organized by the State Council Information Office and the Shanghai municipal government, with co-sponsorship from other government agencies and academic institutions, will also announce an initiative on the development of world China studies and present a recommended bibliography for research in this field.

Source: Xinhua