Classic Chinese dance drama Silk Road, Flower Rain is staged in Dunhuang, Northwest China's Gansu province, on Sept 19, 2016. [Photo/Xinhua]

Silk Road (Dunhuang) International Cultural Expo

The Silk Road (Dunhuang) International Cultural Expo (SRDICE) is an important platform organized by the Chinese government for cultural cooperation and communication among countries involved in the Belt and Road Initiative. It's held annually in Dunhuang in Gansu, most famous for the Mogao caves as an important stop on the ancient Silk Road.

The first SRDICE was opened in Dunhuang on Sept 20, 2016, attracting 95 delegations from 85 countries and five international organizations. It included a high-level conference, forums, cultural exhibitions and performances to display cultural products and promote cultural cooperation.

The expo's cultural exhibitions showcased some 8,500 exhibits from more than 60 countries, ranging from cultural relics, fine arts and photography, creative designs to intangible heritage.

The Dunhuang Declaration was launched at the expo. It plans paths and directions for cultural cooperation among countries along the Silk Road and lays a cultural foundation for development of the Belt and Road Initiative.

The 2nd SRDICE will be held in Dunhuang from Sept 20-21.