Language education seen as key link in intl relations

International language education is emerging as a vital force in fostering cultural exchanges and connecting civilizations across countries participating in the Belt and Road Initiative, senior officials and experts said at the opening ceremony of two events on Friday.

As the global landscape shifts and artificial intelligence transforms the way people communicate and learn, language education is taking on new significance in promoting mutual understanding and international cooperation, they said.

The Belt and Road Forum for Language and Culture Collaboration and the Global English Education China Assembly opened at Beijing Normal University on Friday, drawing insightful discussions on the pivotal role of language education and cultural exchange.

The assembly, which runs through Sunday, and is jointly organized by China Daily, Beijing Normal University and Shanghai International Studies University, features topics such as how AI is rapidly transforming the language learning environment and reshaping the demands placed on language educators and learners.

Du Jiangfeng, vice-minister of education, highlighted the role of AI in reconfiguring the language learning ecosystem. "As AI becomes more widely used in the language field, the demand for foreign language talent is shifting from purely linguistic expertise to interdisciplinary proficiency," he said.

The function of language has evolved from a basic communication tool to a carrier of cultural value, Du noted.

"We must leverage the transformative power of AI to build a more accessible, personalized and globalized language learning system," he said, adding that through international cooperation, China will actively share innovation in holistic education and contribute Chinese wisdom to the digital future of global education.

Qu Yingpu, publisher and editor-in-chief of China Daily, called for collective effort to harness the power of AI in language education to drive the advancement of global civilization in the digital era. "New technologies like AI are making language education more intelligent, personalized and diversified, while improving access to massive educational resources," he said.

Qu said that AI can be used to construct knowledge systems that interpret multicultural classics and support high-quality digital courses and virtual language environments. On the other hand, he said, "we need to promote multilingual education in order to safeguard the diversity of languages and civilizations".

He added that promoting dialogue among young people can open new avenues for cultural exchanges and help cultivate the next generation of leaders committed to building a community with a shared future for humanity.

Educators from top universities also underlined the importance of balancing innovation with the foundational goals of language education.

Yin Dongmei, Party secretary of Shanghai International Studies University, emphasized the dual challenge and opportunity facing foreign language education today.

"On the one hand, we must embrace the tide of technological revolution and promote innovative integration of AI and language education. On the other hand, we should remain committed to the core mission of language education, deepening intercultural exchanges and fostering global competence," Yin said.

Meanwhile, academic experts noted the irreplaceable role of human values and cultural awareness in the age of intelligent technology.

Jin Lixian, chair professor in applied linguistics at City University of Macau, shared insights into the intersection of AI, intercultural communication and Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages, or TESOL.

"AI can help with communication. However, the subtle nuances and the intentions between the lines, with insights and background information beyond the lines, are still made with more effect through human communication," she said, adding that AI must cultivate humane qualities, such as empathy and critical awareness.

The events are a reminder that language and culture serve as bridges to understanding and cooperation in the globalized world.