Nigeria, China Deepen Cultural Diplomacy at Interactive Panda Painting Session
Nigeria and China deepened cultural diplomacy today as the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Mr Abdulkarim Ibrahim, affirmed that cultural diplomacy strengthens relationships, promotes shared values and creates lasting bonds among nations.
Speaking during the Interactive Panda Painting session at the China Cultural Center, Abuja, Mr Ibrahim said the initiative supports the present administration’s Renewed Hope agenda for the creative economy.
He described the Panda as a globally recognized symbol of peace, friendship, harmony and environmental consciousness, adding that art possesses a remarkable ability to transcend language, geography and social differences.
In a statement by the Ministry’s Head of Information and Public Relations, Uloma Amadi, he added that “Through colours, creativity and imagination, it brings people together and fosters mutual understanding.”
The Permanent Secretary assured the Chinese of the Ministry’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote intercultural dialogue, artistic innovation, cultural tourism and international partnerships. “We firmly believe that the creative sector serves as a powerful platform for fostering peace, inclusion and sustainable development,” he assured.
While encouraging all participants to embrace the spirit of creativity, collaboration and friendship that the event represents, Mr. Ibrahim stressed, “let us continue to build bridges through culture, celebrate our diversity and strengthen the ties between Nigeria and China for the benefit of the future generations”.
He commended the Chinese Cultural Center in Nigeria for organizing this unique initiative that creatively bridges culture, painting, friendships and people-to-people exchange.
Earlier, in his goodwill message, Mr. Ahmed Sodangi, the Director General, National Gallery of Art, disclosed that, Panda, China’s national treasure, is a globally recognized symbol of peace, friendship and ecological conservation.
According to him, It embodies the harmony between humanity and nature that is deeply rooted in Chinese culture
He further commended the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China for its continued commitment to promoting cultural diplomacy, adding that, such initiatives “contribute significantly to strengthening our long standing bilateral relations” and reaffirm the transformative role of culture as a catalyst for international cooperation, dialogue and peace.
Mr. Sodangi expressed optimism that the event will inspire greater artistic collaboration and further enrich cultural ties between Nigeria and China for investment.
In a welcome remarks, H.E Yu Dunhai, the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria described Pandas as messengers of goodwill that symbolises peace and harmony, friendship, resilience and gentleness, noting that cultural exchange is a key bridge for China-Nigeria cooperation.
The interactive session had in attendance a senior Chinese Diplomat, Mr. Zhou Hongyou, some Directors of the Ministry, Representatives of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China, artists and students.
