Nigeria, China reaffirm commitment to promote cultural diplomacy

Mr James Sule Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, has reaffirmed Nigeria's commitment to fostering lasting mutual ties with China through cultural diplomacy.Sule said this on Wednesday in Abuja during the 'Energy China - Nigeria Dance Competition Final ' hosted by the China Cultural Centre and China General Chambers of Commerce in Nigeria in collaboration with China Energy International Group Nigeria Co., Ltd.According to him, Nigeria's rich cultural heritage and diverse traditions are essential elements that can be showcased globally through cultural diplomacy.'By collaborating with China, a country with a long history and rich cultural legacy through cultural diplomacy, Nigeria aims to enhance its cultural influence and facilitate cross-cultural dialogue that transcends political and economic boundaries.'We believe that by promoting cultural diplomacy, we can build connections that span continents, promoting understanding beyond politics and economics,' Sule said.According to him, Nigeria aspires to be a beacon of artistic innovation, a hub where diverse voices converge, and a place where cultural exchange thrives.Sule assured that with the unwavering support of the Ministry of Art, Nigeria was committed to fostering enhanced cooperation and collaboration with China to strengthening their partnership through cultural diplomacy.Also speaking, Mr Li Xuda, Director of China Cultural Centre in Nigeria, said,' China views cultural diplomacy as a key component that can not only go beyond political, religious and cultural boundaries, but also play an important role in multinational cultural exchanges.'According to him, Nigeria is a land of rich and colorful cultural heritage which gives opportunity for cultural exchanges to thrive.'Nigeria, long celebrated for its festivals, music, sculptures, literature, film, and dance, is seen by China as an essential partner in advancing its cultural diplomacy objectives in Africa.'By nurturing cultural exchanges and fo rging cultural connections, China envisions a more profound bilateral relationship with Nigeria in the future,'Li said.Mr Li Baisheng, Managing Director from China Energy, expressed appreciation to the Embassy, the China Cultural Centre judges and participants for their strong support towards China-Nigerian cultural exchanges.He noted that since entering the Nigerian market in 1999, Energy China had actively participated in the development of Nigeria's power and infrastructure field.'Energy China is also committed to promoting economic, trade and cultural exchanges and cooperation between the two countries to reach the goal of sharing Chinese harmony, and performing Nigeria-China,'he said.The News Agency of Nigeria(NAN) reports that the Bwari Dance Group, Nigeria and Wang Ao from China, both emerged tops,with each group cashing home the star prize of N500,000.While second and third runners up received cash prizes of N200,000, and N100,000 respectively.Source: News Agency of Nigeria