China has emphasised the importance of civilization exchange as a vital tool for fostering people-to-people connections between nations, aiming to build pathways for deeper mutual understanding and cooperation.
The Country believes that such exchanges play a pivotal role in enhancing national development, promoting peace, and fostering global harmony. Through shared cultural experiences and dialogue, China envisions a more interconnected world that can drive sustainable progress and prosperity for all.
The Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai disclosed this at a Seminar entitled: “Civilisational Exchange and Mutual Learning between China and Nigeria,” held in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital.
Ambassador Dunhai, also explained that the agreement between the two nations during Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s visit to China elevated the bilateral relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership, which people-to-people exchange, high-level people-to-people exchange, is one of the very important pillars.
He said, “Country-to-country relations ultimately boil down to people-to-people relations. China and Nigeria enjoy excellent bilateral ties, and the core reason is the strong connection between our people.
“We continually learn from and respect each other. Through seminars and exchanges like these, we believe both sides can deepen mutual understanding and lay a solid foundation for further tangible cooperation.”
According to the Chinese Ambassador, “educational institutions also play a crucial role in strengthening the ties between China and Nigeria.”
Ambassador Dunhai further reiterated China’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s education sector, emphasizing that collaboration in education would foster deeper bilateral relations and contribute to the mutual development of both nations.
He said; “Before the seminar, I had a very good meeting with the Vice Chancellor of the University of Abuja. And the Vice Chancellor expressed a strong interest to establish jointly with Chinese universities a Confucius Institute here in the University of Abuja. I believe the Confucius Institute and other institutes and think-tanks could play a significant role in enhancing the civilisation exchanges between our two countries. China provides a lot of training opportunities for the think-tanks and institutions here.
“Looking forward, we are going to continue to do this because we believe that by doing this, it will really enhance the mutual understanding between our two countries.”
In his keynote address, the Director General of Voice of Nigeria, Mallam Jibrin Baba Ndace, stated that public and cultural diplomacy are crucial to national development.
Role of the Media
He said; “All discussions surrounding cultural exchange are based on the pivotal role of the media. The media remains the most crucial component in facilitating and promoting these exchanges.”
“To deepen the relationship, first you have to deepen the relationship between various media organisations in the country.
“Nigeria’s external broadcast station, Voice of Nigeria, VON, is committed to supporting Nigeria-China relations through public diplomacy. We recognise the importance of promoting mutual understanding, respect, and cooperation between our nations. By amplifying Voice of Nigeria, we can strengthen our relationship with China and promote a brighter future for our nations,” Mallam Ndace explained.
The Head of Department, Political and International Relations, University of Abuja, Professor Sherrif Ibrahim also shared his views on the take away from the event.
He said;”The major takeaway from the mutual learning between civilizations, particularly China and Nigeria, is the principle of non-interference in the affairs of others. Additionally, one thing China can learn from Nigeria is perpetual mutual tolerance. Nigeria, with its many ethnic groups, demonstrates a level of tolerance that China can learn from, given its fewer ethnic groups. These are essential lessons we should take from this seminar—fostering further tolerance and mutual understanding. If we can achieve this, there will be no room for war, conflict, or even terrorism in Nigeria or Africa.”
The Convener of the lecture, Mr. Ralph Oni stated that foreign collaborations are crucial, as they provide Nigeria with the opportunity to learn from China’s successes and adopt relevant strategies for its own growth.
Other highlights of the event were dance performance from Students and Seminar presentation from other Diplomats.
Mercy Chukwudiebere
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