Chinese and Thai Poets Engage in Cultural Exchange at Mid-Autumn Festival

The program began with a cultural performance by the ASEAN Cultural Promotion Council, followed by remarks from Zhang Ruoyu, Director of the China Cultural Center, and Juthamas Na Songkhla, Secretary-General of the Writers’ Association of Thailand. The official opening was conducted by Yang Xiaolong, Cultural Counsellor of the Chinese Embassy in Thailand.

Yang Xiaolong emphasized the high level of cooperation between China and Thailand, stating that the concept of these nations as "one family" is deeply ingrained. He noted that poetry serves as a gentle yet powerful means of expression in fostering this understanding. He expressed hope that the dialogue would enhance mutual translations and collaborative projects, revitalizing poetry in both cultures.

Juthamas Na Songkhla highlighted that the friendship between the two nations is not only based on diplomatic ties but also on a shared history of cultural and literary exchange. She asserted that poetry transcends languages and conveyed universal emotions, wishing for deeper cooperation among writers and scholars from both countries through such exchanges.

Zhang Ruoyu remarked on the significance of the Mid-Autumn Festival as a traditional Chinese celebration, stating that the gathering of poets from both nations represents a meeting of minds and ideas. He looked forward to further cooperation between the two literary communities.

The event featured nine poets and literary figures from both countries. The morning session explored the theme “When Poetry Meets: Thai–Chinese Poetic Voices Across the Frontiers of Language.” Thai representatives included Chamaiporn Bangkombang, Saksiri Meesomsueb, and Chiranan Pitpreecha, joined by Chinese poets Liu Liu, Cheng Yong, and Zhang Huijun. They shared insights about poetry development, unique creative processes, and performed selected works, highlighting the intersections of their poetic traditions.

In the afternoon, a panel discussion titled “Poetic Voices Across Mountains and Seas: Connecting China and Thailand” continued the dialogue. Various Thai speakers, including Assistant Professor Dr. Dhanate Vespada and Chokchai Bundit, joined again with Liu Liu, Cheng Yong, and Zhang Huijun to discuss poetry’s reach beyond literary spheres, preservation of traditions, the role of AI, and the future of literary exchanges between their cultures.

Chamaiporn Bangkombang expressed gratitude for the event, emphasizing the profound nature of poetry and the connections it creates. Dr. Dhanate Vespada underscored the importance of translation in enhancing cultural ties, mentioning notable works like Lilit Phra Lo that have been translated into Chinese.

Chinese poet Liu Liu, sharing his thoughts, emphasized the need for more collaborative opportunities between China and Thailand to learn from each other. He noted the extensive grassroots poetry initiatives in China and expressed hope for continued poetic exchanges.

Overall, the “Chinese–Thai Poets Dialogue” was a successful celebration of cultural connections, demonstrating how poetry can bridge gaps between languages and foster friendships across borders.