The International Department of the Communist Party of China, through Contemporary World Press, has launched a Silk Road pop-up book that integrates history with modern technology to promote global digital innovation and cultural exchange.

The launch took place in Dunhuang during a Parallel Forum on Civilisational Reconstruction and Renewal in the Age of Artificial Intelligence, with the book accompanied by an AI-powered narration device.

The Executive Director and Editor-in-Chief of Contemporary World Press, Li Shuangwu, described the book as more than a traditional publication.

“This is a project empowered by digital technologies,” he said, noting that it transformed flat pages into an immersive 3D experience and symbolised the innovative development of traditional culture. Available in six languages – Chinese, English, French, Russian, Arabic, and Spanish – the book highlights 15 representative post stations along the ancient Silk Road.’’

Mr Li emphasised that it was “a gift to the world,” designed to foster mutual understanding and encourage participation in the Belt and Road Initiative.

Quoting a Chinese proverb, “Read 10,000 books and travel 10,000 miles,” he encouraged cultural dialogue through the global release of the book.

Chairman of Fuzhou Hollo Cultural and Creative Co., Ltd., Lin Bingyang, a pioneer in Chinese pop-up books, highlighted Dunhuang’s symbolic importance as a site of civilisational fusion.

“This project is not merely about echoing the Silk Road but constructing a timeless dialogue between civilisations,” he said.

Mr Lin explained that the eight-metre-long 3D pop-up book brought to life the whispers of camel bells, monks, and artists from the ancient Silk Road.

“The book took nine years to create and features culturally distinct narratives in multiple languages, beyond direct translations.

“We are reinvigorating the Silk Road spirit and inviting the world to experience it in 3D,” Mr Lin added.

Secretary of the CPC Committee of Yangzhou University, Ding Jianning, noted that the Silk Road’s influence transcended time and space, continuing to connect East and West while leaving a profound mark on civilisation.

“The future of the Silk Road lies in innovation,” he said.

The Abuja Bureau Chief of The Guardian Newspaper, Bridget Onochie, described the enduring Silk Road spirit as a testament to human determination and resilience.

She said the modern Belt and Road Initiative launched in 2013, had fostered development across the Global South, including Nigeria.

“The initiative is redefining global trade and establishing a new international order based on cooperation rather than isolation,” Ms Onochie noted.

She added that with advancements in technology and AI, “no country would be left behind in this new world order.”

(NAN)