A Glorious Celebration of Global Poetry: Highlights from the 5th Silk Road International Poetry Festival Awards Ceremony
- Sands and City Magazine
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
Dubai, May 27, 2025 — The 5th Silk Road International Poetry and Art Festival concluded its much-anticipated Awards Ceremony yesterday at the magnificent Mohammed bin Rashid Library in Dubai, bringing together poets, artists, cultural leaders, and dignitaries from across the world in a radiant celebration of literary and artistic exchange.
The event opened with a commemorative group photo, capturing the spirit of unity and cultural connection that defined the day. Hosts Jamal Matar (Arabic) and Yi Lan (Chinese) guided the audience through a rich program that reflected the diversity and grandeur of Silk Road cultures.
Distinguished Guests and Speeches
The ceremony was graced by inspiring speeches from prominent figures, including the Dubai royal representative, the Director of the Dubai Library, Vice Chairman of the China Writers Association Huang Yazhou, and Wang Fangwen, Chair of the International Poetry Committee of the UN World Silk Road Forum. Notable recitations included the stirring “Positive Spirit” by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, performed in a cross-cultural collaboration by poets from Dubai and China, followed by the spirited “China’s Silk, World’s Glow” performed by ten Chinese poets.
Cao Shui, Executive Chairman of the Festival, and Dubai Honorary Chairman Adel Khozam added powerful words about the importance of cultural bridges, after which the audience was treated to a special documentary film on Silk Road poetry exchanges.
Honors, Gifts, and Cultural Exchange
A historic moment unfolded when the United Nations World Silk Road Forum awarded the Silk Road Medal to His Highness’s representative, with Max Lu’s moving award speech delivered via video. The ceremony also featured the gifting of the latest issue of World Poets Magazine, adorned with the portrait of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, as well as exquisite commemorative ink paintings presented to representatives of the Dubai royal family.
Global Poets Magazine
In a symbolic gesture of friendship, a series of remarkable Chinese cultural works—calligraphy, photography scrolls, and traditional paintings—were donated to the Dubai Library, enriching its Chinese Book Corner. The moment was sealed with group photos of donors holding the gifted books.
Recognition of Poetic Excellence
The highly anticipated Silk Road International Poet Awards were then presented to outstanding poets, with certificates and medals handed out by the festival’s honorary and executive chairs. The Chinese song Light of the Silk Road filled the hall, bringing the first half of the event to a close as official guests and dignitaries departed.
Literary Launches and Artistic Showcases
The second half of the festival brimmed with literary excitement:
BRICS Chairman Vadim Terekhin presented the BRICS Creator Medal to Cao Shui, followed by the Outstanding Contribution Award for Spreading Silk Road Culture presented to Ms. Wang Fangwen.
The Distant Silk Road poetry collection series was launched, with authors gifting copies to the Dubai National Library and delivering heartfelt speeches.
Vadim Terekhin’s Golden Bird in the Sun, translated by Cao Shui, debuted alongside awards, recitations, and a beautiful poetry film screening.
Adel Khozam’s Manseerah (Chinese version) and Han Geyou’s Wandering Moonlight were also launched, complemented by live readings, video presentations, and thoughtful reviews.
Literary Celebration of Classic and Contemporary Performances
The festival closed with a captivating series of classic poetry recitations, Zen and Xinjiang dance performances, and bilingual readings, showcasing the timeless power of poetry across cultures. UAE poets joined their Chinese counterparts on stage, bringing to life ancient verses and modern reflections.
As the evening drew to a close, guests gathered at a red wine banquet, toasting to the enduring spirit of the Silk Road—where poetry, art, and humanity intertwine.
Final Reflections
The 5th Silk Road International Poetry Festival reaffirmed the universal language of poetry and the power of cultural dialogue to transcend borders. Dubai’s hosting of this prestigious event highlighted its growing role as a global hub of artistic exchange and a vibrant meeting point for East and West.
The echoes of voices, the shimmer of words, and the bonds forged yesterday will surely continue to resonate along the Silk Road and beyond.
Source and Photo: Sands&City / Ana S. Gad
