Through commercial exchange, goods and silver flowed freely between Jiangnan and the Western Regions. Thus, commerce became the lifeblood, strengthening the connection between Jiangnan and the Western Regions as the first step.
These large ships, having just unloaded their grain, were soon loaded with Jiangnan's specialties and set out for the Western Regions, stopping by the southwestern areas along the way to revitalize the entire territory through waterways, commercial routes, and the traditional circulation of culture and trade.
Yan Daiqing said: "Without interactions in personnel, culture, and commerce, the so-called conquered territories are like a body with severed tendons and bones, crudely patched together with devices."
"It may look functional, but in reality, the Qi and blood cannot circulate within, resembling a set of bones with merely the surface stitched together, just a facade."
"Having ideals alone is not enough; benefits and culture are also necessary."
