Guan Gong's legacy continues to inspire today's youth

"The culture of loyalty and righteousness of Guan Gong continues to hold unique contemporary value and offers practical inspiration for today's youth," Mei Zhengzheng, a researcher at the Chengdu Wuhou Shrine Museum, said in a keynote speech at a recent international youth dialogue.

Guan Gong, also known as Guan Di or Emperor Guan, a general in the late Eastern Han Dynasty (25-220) and the Three Kingdoms period (220-280), has been widely revered for his loyalty and righteousness.

"Loyalty is the foundation of one's character, manifesting as steadfast belief and selfless dedication to one's country, nation and duties, as well as sincerity and keeping promises in interpersonal relationships," Mei said.

Mei said that for contemporary youth, loyalty is more about having a sense of mission for national rejuvenation and unwavering responsibility to the country, career and ideals. It also involves dedication to one's profession and the courage to persist and not retreat in the face of difficulties.

But loyalty and patriotism are never empty words, Mei said.

"A truly upright and ambitious young person must have a positive attitude toward learning and a thirst for knowledge, read widely and judiciously, and combine knowledge with practice. Only in this way can one become a person who contributes to society."

The four-day event, held from Sept 20 to 23, brought together content creators from six countries, including France, Russia, and Thailand, as well as journalists from Chinese and foreign media outlets such as China Daily Website, Voice of Vietnam, and the Associated Press of Pakistan.