China charts archaeology's next chapter

The national archaeological work meeting opened in Chengdu, Sichuan province, on Thursday.

Organized by the National Cultural Heritage Administration, it brings together archaeology experts and cultural heritage officials from across the country to discuss the achievements of China's archaeological work during the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-25) and to outline plans for the future.

Experts stressed the need to promote scientific progress, modernization, and sustainable development of Chinese archaeology.

Major initiatives include tracing the origins of Chinese civilization, the "Archaeology China" major project, and a research project to study the Xia (c. 21st century-16th century BC) and Shang (c. 16th century-11th century BC) dynasties, alongside efforts to strengthen theoretical studies of civilization.

They also called for deepening international joint archaeological projects and promoting exchanges and mutual learning among civilizations.

Other priorities include enhancing technological and multidisciplinary support, building national key laboratories and implementing plans to cultivate new talent to ensure the long-term growth of archaeology.

Authorities meanwhile are formulating the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-30) for archaeological work and the protection and utilization of major sites, with the goal of opening a new chapter in the high-quality development of China's archaeological undertakings.