Culture forum in Fujian celebrates Mazu's spirit globally

The 10th Global Mazu Culture Forum opened on Meizhou Island in Fujian province on Sunday, with global experts hailing the ancient Chinese sea goddess as a unifying force for peace, sustainability, and cross-cultural dialogue.

Former political leaders from foreign countries, UN officials and local experts emphasized how Mazu's core values of virtue, charity and great love resonate across continents, offering a blueprint for addressing modern challenges like climate change and inequality.

The event, co-hosted by China's Ministry of Culture and Tourism and other key bodies, featured 11 synchronized meetings worldwide, underscoring Mazu's growing influence among 300 million followers across 50 countries and regions.

Born as Lin Mo in Putian in 960 AD, Mazu earned reverence for her selfless acts rescuing fishermen. Today, over 10,000 Mazu temples span 50 countries and regions, with 300 million followers worldwide.

Stefan Lofven, former prime minister of Sweden, said: "Mazu's spirit of compassion and protection speaks to values we all share — peace, harmony, and respect among peoples. For Sweden, a nation long shaped by the sea, these values remind us that across cultures and continents, we are bound by a common destiny."

Siddharth Chatterjee, the Resident Coordinator of the UN Development System in China, said Mazu's principles align with the UN's 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. In a complex world, her teachings inspire us to tackle poverty, climate change, and inequality through collaboration.

George Hato, councillor of Sao Paulo City, Brazil, said separated by oceans, Brazil and China are connected by Mazu's spirit.

"With 300,000 Chinese immigrants here, Mazu temples have taken root, reflecting our shared values of family, harmony, and multicultural dialogue," he said.??

Cao Yanling, chairperson of the Federation of Overseas Chinese Associations in Europe, highlighted Mazu's role in fostering cross-cultural dialogue.

"From temples to festivals, Mazu culture has become a window for Europeans to understand China. In an era of complex EU-China relations, her principles of peace and mutual respect offer a path forward," Cao said.

Chuan Leekpai, former prime minister of Thailand, whose roots trace to Fujian's Nan'an, said Mazu's teachings were significant to contemporary challenges. "Facing climate change and inequality, this forum's theme of shared destiny and harmony mirrors the urgent need for global solidarity."

A key highlight of the forum was the launch of China's first sea wind and wave detection satellite named "Mazu", symbolizing the fusion of tradition and innovation in promoting global cooperation.