Address at the Opening Ceremony of the International Taoism Forum

by Du Qinglin

23/10/2011

Distinguished guests,

Dear friends,

In this golden season of autumn and by the River Xiang, Taoist masters, experts, and people of all sectors from all over the world are gathered here in this sacred mountain to discuss Taoism and harmony. I wish to take this opportunity to offer my warm congratulations on the opening of the International Taoism Forum and extend my sincere welcome and best wishes to all guests present.

The innovative theme of this forum, "Respect the Tao and Value the De for Harmonious Co-existence" speaks volumes about the essence of Taoism, inspires ethical care and stays relevant to the time. It is significant for it to expand and deepen the theme of the first forum.

All creatures born out of the Tao should live in harmony. All creatures co-exist without harming one another. Yin and yang stand opposite yet still in harmony. Nature lives on because of the diversity of species, and human society makes progress and prospers thanks to multiplicity. We should abide by the fundamental principles of the natural laws to promote the harmony between man and nature. We should uphold the principles of equality and benevolence to push for harmony between man and society. Only in this way can we achieve true harmony, can all be benefited, and can unity amid diversity be possible.

Only win-win cooperation can lead to a harmonious world. Big or small, strong or weak, countries and nations can only generate synergy through cooperation, and prosper together by striving for win-win outcomes. In a world of opportunities and challenges, to resolve problems holding back global economic growth calls for the awareness of win-win cooperation. To address the degradation of the living environment of mankind calls for actions toward win-win cooperation. To settle disputes of interest between countries needs the foresight of win-win cooperation. Drawing on other's strengths to make up for one's own weakness and tiding over difficulties together will bring benefit to the whole world.

The tradition of harmony has been lasting throughout the history of the Chinese nation. What is behind it is the wisdom of co-existence for win-win outcomes. The Chinese culture is rich and diverse because it is inclusive. It is full of vigor and vitality because it is eclectic. It has a far-reaching influence because it upholds good-neighborliness and sharing for win-win results.

Coexistence for win-win outcomes is spiritual essence of the Chinese culture and the value of the Chinese nation. It has vivid examples in the modern China. The Chinese government respects diversified development and stays committed to mutually beneficial cooperation. Coexistence for win-win outcomes has been a major philosophy throughout China's reform and opening-up and modernization drive. It can be found everywhere, from the goal of "common prosperity" to promote harmony between different ethnic groups and bring benefits to all to the vision of a "harmonious society" where diversity is respected to the best of each one's advantage; from the political wisdom of "one country, two systems" where two social systems complement each other to the strategic choice of "peaceful development" for strengthened communication and cooperation and deepened mutual trust with the rest of the world.

Taoism is deeply rooted in Chinese culture. It takes respect the Tao and value the De as its core doctrine and upholds inclusiveness, peace and selflessness. It enriches the cultural bond of the Chinese nation and the treasure trove of wisdom of mankind. It is our expectation that the International Taoism Forum can dig into the fine traditions of Taoist culture, promote charity, call for returning to simplicity and truthfulness, celebrate and value life and uphold the spirit of harmony between man and nature so that we can build a world of lasting peace through harmonious co-existence.

I pray for happiness on this holy land and peace in the world! I sincerely wish the International Taoism Forum a full success, and all friends good health and every success!

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