China has called for stronger dialogue among civilisations as a pathway to mutual understanding, peace and global development.
The call was made in Abuja during the celebration of the International Day for Dialogue Among Civilisations and the opening of the exhibition, Fan, Charm and Ink Fragrance: The Cultural Resonance of Traditional Calligraphy and Tang Dynasty Virtual Reality, hosted by the China Cultural Centre in Nigeria.
Speaking at the event, the Cultural Counsellor of the Chinese Embassy and Director of the China Cultural Centre, Yang Jianxing, described cultural exchange as an important bridge for strengthening relations between nations.
“The fun, charm and ink fragrance project organically combines traditional art objects with VR technology, preserving the authentic charm of traditional art while giving it a novel presentation,” he said.
Yang noted that the exhibition, which features traditional Chinese calligraphy, painting and seal carving alongside immersive virtual reality experiences, was designed to promote mutual understanding and bring Nigerian audiences closer to Chinese culture.
“This blend of ancient and modern, virtual and real will bring our Nigerian friends a brand-new experience of Chinese culture, promote exchange and understanding between different cultures, and inject new vitality into strengthening cultural exchange,” he added.
The Chinese diplomat also noted that the event coincides with the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Nigeria as well as the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges.
Representing the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology, the Permanent Secretary, Mukhtar Yawale Muhammad, said Nigeria and China share common aspirations in culture, science, innovation and technology.
He also reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to expanding cooperation with the Asian nation in culture, innovation and media.
“China and Nigeria have a lot to share, not only in terms of culture, heritage and tradition, but also in advancing the efficiency of human performance across the globe,” he said.
Muhammad stressed that dialogue between both countries remains critical to advancing technological progress and development.
“We have already established a lot of bilateral relationships, including several memoranda of understanding between our two countries. Today, we are commemorating this day so that we can advance further the discussions we have had, concretise our plans and ensure that our civilisations work together for the benefit of mankind,” he stated.
READ ALSO: Nigeria Remains Committed to Institutional Partnership with Saudi Arabia Minister
Also speaking, the Director-General of Voice of Nigeria (VON), Jibrin Baba Ndace, commended the China Cultural Centre and the Chinese Government for their sustained efforts in promoting cultural diplomacy and people-to-people relations.
Highlighting the growing partnership between VON and Chinese institutions, Baba-Ndace revealed that the nation’s external broadcaster has commenced Mandarin-language broadcasting.
“Before then, we were broadcasting in eight languages: Hausa, Yoruba, Igbo, Fulfulde, English, French, Arabic and Swahili. After the signing of our cooperation agreements, we are now broadcasting in nine languages,” he said.
He described the development as a major milestone in strengthening communication and cultural understanding between Nigeria and China.
“As Nigeria’s international broadcaster, we remain committed to deepening this relationship by promoting intercultural dialogue, sharing authentic stories and building bridges of friendship between our people,” he added.
The VON Director-General also urged young people to embrace cultural diversity and mutual respect.
“You can become what you want to become without leaving who you are. People have the right to differ, and when you respect other people’s cultures and traditions, they will respect yours,” he said.
The event featured exhibitions of traditional Chinese artworks and virtual reality experiences that enabled participants to interact with aspects of China’s ancient civilisation through modern technology.
Stakeholders expressed optimism that sustained cultural exchanges and institutional partnerships would further strengthen the longstanding relationship between Nigeria and China.
