Brussels, November 18th, 2024
On November 17–18, 2024, the Europe-Asia Center hosted Venerable Shi Yongxin, Abbot of the Shaolin Temple, Vice-President of the Chinese Buddhist Association and Senior Cultural Advisor of the Center, as well as three of his disciples, in Brussels for a series of high-level engagements. The visit focused on strengthening EU-China cultural relations, advancing climate action, and promoting the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
A Celebration of Culture, Faith, and Diplomacy
Abbot Shi Yongxin began his visit with an inspiring meeting with world-renowned floral artist Daniel Ost. Their discussion explored how creativity and harmony with nature can serve as a foundation for sustainable development, emphasizing the power of art and spirituality in addressing global challenges.
The Abbot then met with the Lode Van Hecke, Bishop of Ghent, to discuss the pivotal role of interfaith dialogue in fostering global cooperation. Their exchange highlighted shared values and the potential for spiritual leadership to inspire climate action and societal resilience.
Engaging Policymakers and Diplomats
On November 18, Abbot Shi Yongxin visited the European Parliament, where he met with MEPs Ondřej Dostal, Danilo Della Valle, and Michael von der Schulenburg. Discussions focused on enhancing cultural collaboration between Europe and China and addressing climate challenges. The Abbot’s presence underscored the importance of integrating ancient wisdom with modern policymaking to tackle pressing global issues.
The visit continued with a trip to the China Pavilion, where the Abbot engaged with Ambassador Piet Steel and representatives from the Japanese and Vietnamese embassies. These meetings emphasized the importance of multilateral cooperation in promoting cultural understanding and achieving sustainable progress.
Fostering a Shared Future
The visit of Abbot Shi Yongxin exemplified the role of cultural diplomacy in uniting nations and addressing shared challenges. By bridging ancient traditions and contemporary policymaking, the Europe-Asia Center continues to champion meaningful dialogue and collaboration across continents.
For press enquiries:
Jonathan Schwestka, Deputy Director for Europe, Europe – Asia Center