We live in times where, on the one hand, sustainability is widely discussed. However, the fundamental prerequisite for genuine sustainability is PEACE among peoples. On the other hand, wars are waged, and barriers are erected—barriers even more insurmountable than the physical ones of the past, as today they are cultural walls arising from the interruption of dialogue, the manipulation of words, the partial interpretation of history, and the lack of mutual respect.

At ACLVS, we firmly believe that Culture is THE TOOL to unite people of common sense.

We have begun our journey by bringing together outstanding personalities in their respective fields, whom we call Ambassadors of Culture. We are continually seeking their counterparts in the countries traversed by the historic Silk Road. Why? Because we believe that to foster mutual understanding, it is essential to start from subjects familiar to both interlocutors. However, we must always remember that every subject, even if known, takes on profoundly different meanings when viewed from diverse perspectives and cultural backgrounds.

It is, therefore, crucial to have the humility to recognize that KNOWLEDGE is always partial and perfectible. The process leading to knowledge requires TIME and dedication, which often foster RELATIONSHIPS, cooperation, and those sentiments that prevent conflicts and facilitate the shared and sensible management of our fragile planet. This is the essence of our path towards sustainability.

The soul of the Silk Road was GOODS and KNOWLEDGE, together.

Those were times of widespread PEACE that ensured the safety of the Silk Roads and facilitated exchanges and interactions that were crucial for humanity's progress, laying the foundations of a shared Culture. Today, however, the origins of many of these cultural contributions are often overlooked.

In the present day, when Peace is threatened, it becomes our duty to make every effort to keep the dialogue between distant civilizations open. We believe that, just as in the past, Culture and Trade are the most suitable means to achieve this goal. Therefore, we propose a new alliance.

Our objective is to revisit history together, to acknowledge each contribution, to finally express the long-overdue gratitude, and thus TOGETHER resume the path that was interrupted too long ago.

Where to start?

Italy and Kazakhstan are the nations once again called to set the first example of how collaboration is THE right PATH.

Both countries have historically been strategic points along the Silk Road, crossroads of civilizations that found fertile ground to create the dynamic energy that generates complexity and beauty.

Kazakhstan, a young republic with a millennia-old history, has always been a key player in the most vibrant area of the historic Silk Road—Central Asia. This region, dynamic due to the nomadic spirit of its people, is refined and peaceful, with a young population that preserves its ancient traditions. From the outset, Kazakhstan has distinguished itself as a place of Peace in Central Asia.

In Kazakhstan, cultures, traditions, and representatives of various nationalities coexist in harmony. It is from this environment that the Peace Symposiums arise, where nations from around the world participate. The Pyramid of Peace and Reconciliation in Astana embodies this spirit, hosting every three years a gathering of world religions, with the Pope himself participating in 2022.

In August 2023, Ambassadors of Culture along the Silk Road organized a meeting for Kazakhstan in Sicily, in the Madonie region. The aim was to initiate cultural relations with Kazakh friends, who are currently mostly recognized only as producers of "oil and gas."

Wine and textiles served as the starting point for Kazakhstan to share its story with Italy, beginning in the Madonie—a region rich in excellence, spanning from archaeology to textiles, from wine to astronomy.

Few people know that GAL Hassin in Isnello, at the heart of the Madonie, is the largest astronomical center in the Mediterranean—an international hub of excellence where astrophysical research, education, and outreach converge.

We believe that such initiatives are essential to creating a path of mutual understanding.

Meanwhile, we are working on several cultural projects, all with a sustainable focus, to be developed together with our Kazakh friends. These projects will highlight Kazakhstan and Italy as protagonists, covering fields such as art, cinema, music, tourism, archaeology, and cutting-edge technologies.

The vast and resource-rich Kazakhstan and the small yet precious Italy, with their millennia-old histories and remarkable creativity, will form an exceptional partnership.

Architect Claudia Buccellato

Initiator and Vice President

Ambasciatori di Cultura lungo la Via della Seta