Buddhism and the "Belt and Road": An Expedition from the Origin

This conference in Hong Kong explores the historical and contemporary dimensions of Buddhism's spread along the ancient Silk Road and its resonances with China's Belt and Road Initiative, bringing together scholars from Buddhist studies, art history, Chinese studies, and international relations. Topics include the role of Buddhist institutions and art in shaping trans-regional cultural exchange along ancient trade routes, the use of Buddhist heritage in contemporary diplomacy, and the intersection of religion, culture, and geopolitics in the modern Belt and Road discourse. Hong Kong's unique position as a meeting point of Chinese and global intellectual traditions makes it an ideal setting for this interdisciplinary dialogue.

arts silk road buddhism chinese