Forum to bring cultures closer

Nearly 1,000 politicians, entrepreneurs, scholars and cultural notables from about 40 countries and regions have gathered for a forum in Beijing to exchange ideas, strengthen cooperation and deepen understanding among different cultures.

The fifth annual conference of the Taihu World Cultural Forum begins on Thursday with the theme, "Dialogues of Cultures: Building a Community of Shared Future for Mankind".

The forum aims to help different cultures learn from each other and build a better world with lasting peace, universal security, common prosperity and an open and inclusive attitude, according to Yan Zhaozhu, chairman of the forum.