The Conference on Zhu Xi's Philosophy and Dialogue of Global Civilization is held in Nanping. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

The fourth parallel forum of the Conference on Zhu Xi's Philosophy and Dialogue of Global Civilization, focusing on Zhu Xi's cultural heritage and cross-Strait integration, was held on Oct 17 in Nanping. It was the only session dedicated specifically to cross-Strait issues, drawing about 135 experts and scholars from both sides of the Taiwan Strait.

The forum examined how archaeological research, heritage conservation, and contemporary cultural practice can preserve Zhu Xi's legacy. "Since 2015, a survey in Fujian has registered 215 immovable cultural relics and sites related to Zhu Xi," said Fu Qisheng, director of the Fujian Provincial Bureau of Cultural Heritage.

Wen Mingzheng, head of Taiwan's Yangming Academy, explored ways to promote cross-Strait cultural integration through intangible cultural heritage, highlighting how academies can connect shared cultural roots with tourism and bring people on both sides closer together.

Zhu Xi's influence extends beyond philosophy into local customs and family life. Chen Fu, a professor at National Ilan University's College of Liberal Arts in Taiwan, pointed to his enduring imprint on Minnan (southern Fujian) family ethics and warned that younger generations risk losing touch with tradition, calling for more cross-Strait cultural exchanges and visits by young people.

Alongside these discussions, archaeological research and the conservation of Zhu Xi-related sites offer ways to preserve this shared cultural heritage. Participants said the challenge is to connect Zhu Xi's legacy to contemporary life rather than confine it to books and historic sites.