(MENAFN) China held the second Orchid Awards ceremony in Beijing on Thursday to honor individuals and organizations from around the world who have contributed to advancing cultural exchange and mutual understanding between China and the international community.

The awards were presented to nine foreign nationals, including Irina Bokova from Bulgaria, Rashid Alimov from Tajikistan, and Maxime Vivas from France. The Philadelphia Orchestra from the United States was also among the recipients.

The ceremony celebrated efforts to promote shared human values and support global cooperation, with awardees emphasizing the critical role of cultural dialogue amid rising global uncertainty. They called for finding common ground, encouraging mutual understanding, and working collectively toward peace and collaboration.

Organized by the China International Communication Group, the event brought together more than 300 attendees, including officials from central government bodies, representatives of international organizations, foreign diplomats, and members of both Chinese and international think tanks and media outlets.

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