Shenzhen, China – [03 May 2025] — In a significant gesture of cultural diplomacy and appreciation, Mr. Qaiser Nawab, Chairman of the Belt and Road Initiative for Sustainable Development (BRISD), has appointed Mr. Wang Xiangrong, also known by his pen name Yilong, as an Honorary Member of the BRISD Silk Road Culture and Innovation Hub for Shenzhen.
During his recent visit to Shenzhen, Chairman Nawab toured Mr. Wang’s art gallery and deeply appreciated his artistic contribution to sustainable development, rural revitalization, and the promotion of Silk Road heritage through his distinctive style of Philosophic Ink Painting.
Speaking on the occasion, Chairman Nawab remarked, “Art has the unique power to bridge cultures, inspire peace, and advance global understanding. Mr. Wang Xiangrong’s visionary work exemplifies the spirit of the Silk Road—fostering human connection, wisdom, and sustainable progress through creativity.”
Wang Xiangrong, born in Qujiang, Shaoguan, Guangdong Province, is a leading figure in Chinese contemporary art and calligraphy. He holds numerous prestigious positions, including member of the Chinese Calligraphers Association, Director of Guangdong Calligraphers Association, and Vice President of the Outstanding Chinese Culture Promotion Association. With more than a dozen individual exhibitions across China and recognition from institutions like China Post and the Chinese Academy of Management Science, Mr. Wang has championed traditional culture through edutainment, public benefit, and international dialogue.
Accepting the honorary membership, Mr. Wang thanked Chairman Nawab for the recognition and expressed his commitment to further promote the Silk Road values of dialogue, harmony, and cultural cooperation. “BRISD’s mission resonates with my life’s work,” Mr. Wang said. “I look forward to contributing to cultural exchanges and using art as a tool for sustainable transformation and mutual understanding.”
This appointment highlights BRISD’s commitment to integrating culture and innovation in the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative, leveraging soft power and creative diplomacy to advance the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
