Cultural Transformations In Translation: Insights From The Saudi–Chinese Experience At International Forum

The International Translation Forum 2025, hosted by the Literature, Publishing, and Translation Commission, commenced its third day in Riyadh with a panel titled "Cultural Transformations in Translation: An Insight into the Saudi–Chinese Experience." This session delved into cultural exchanges between Saudi Arabia and China, highlighting translation's role in fostering knowledge and human connections.

Dr. Najah Suliman from Ain Shams University, an expert in translation studies and comparative literature, participated in the discussion. Rasheed Aljebreen from the Ministry of Culture moderated the session. The event attracted researchers, translators, academics, and those interested in linguistic and cultural studies.

The forum emphasized Saudi Vision 2030's influence on cultural relations between Saudi Arabia and China. This vision prioritises culture and translation to enhance civilizational dialogue and knowledge exchange. The growing cooperation between the two nations spans literary, educational, and media fields.

Dr. Suliman highlighted the Saudi–Chinese Annual Cultural Program initiated by the Ministry of Culture. This program is crucial for strengthening cultural ties through various projects like translation, publishing, arts, and exchanging academic expertise.

The session underscored translation as a strategic tool for building understanding between peoples. It plays a vital role in transferring expertise and expanding academic and cultural cooperation between Saudi Arabia and China.

Examples of mutual translations were reviewed during the discussion. These included classical Chinese literary works translated into Arabic and modern Saudi literature translated into Chinese. Such efforts contribute to expanding knowledge exchange and enhancing reciprocal cultural presence.

Cultural Exchange Initiatives

The rapid transformations in translation between Arabic and Chinese were addressed amid mutual cultural openness. The session highlighted significant growth in cultural relationships driven by initiatives like the Saudi–Chinese Annual Cultural Program.

Translation was portrayed as a key pillar in fostering understanding between nations. It aids in transferring expertise while expanding academic collaborations between Saudi Arabia and China.

The forum concluded by reiterating that translation is essential for building bridges of knowledge. It remains a strategic tool for enhancing understanding between different cultures through various initiatives under Saudi Vision 2030.

With inputs from SPA