The cultural and creative industries represent a major force in the world economy and in all our lives. Cultural products from one country can be cherished the world over. This brings us to the exciting arena of cultural trade. Historically, both the private sector and governments have been keenly interested in transporting cultural products from one nation to another, as this represents not only a huge business opportunity, but also how a nation is perceived by the rest of the world, and therein flows one of the sources of the so-called"soft-power."

Dr. Thomas Rabe, Chief financial officer of Bertelsmann AG

Strengthening the exchange and understanding of traditional Chinese culture is very important and necessary for China and the world. Technology, especially digital technology and the Internet, has accelerated the awareness of traditional Chinese culture. The Beijing Olympics and fairs like ICIF are all great opportunities for both Chinese and foreigners to have more comprehensive knowledge about China and it？ˉs traditional culture.

Dr. Gary Locke, Former governor of Washington state

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