In a bid to contribute to the Renewed Hope of the Creative Economy under the Renewed Hope Agenda of the present administration, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy (FMACTCE), Mr Abdulkarim Ozi Ibrahim has affirmed that cultural diplomacy strengthens relationships, promote shared values and create lasting bonds among nations.
The Permanent Secretary speaking today at the Interactive Panda Painting session at the China Cultural Center, Abuja, said Panda is globally recognized as a symbol of peace, friendship, harmony and environmental consciousness, adding that, Art posseses a remarkable ability to transcend language, geography and social differences. Through colours, creativity and imagination, it brings people together and Fosters mutual understanding, he added.
He assured the Chinese of the Ministry’s commitment and supporting initiatives that promotes 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 events represent, the Permanent Secretary said “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”.
Ibrahim 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, said that, Panda, China ‘s national treasure, is a globally recognized symbol of peace, friendship and ecological conservation. It embodies the harmony between humanity and nature that is deeply rooted in Chinese culture, he added.
He further commended the Embassy of the People Republic of China for its continued commitment to promoting cultural diplomacy, adding that, such initiatives “contributes significantly to strengthening our long standing bilateral relations” and reaffirm the transformative role of culture as a catalyst for international cooperation, dialogue and peace.
While extending his best wishes, Mr. Sodangi assured that the event will inspire greater artistic collaboration and further enrich the cultural ties between Nigeria and China for investment.
Also, H.E Yu Dunhai, the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria in his welcome remarks stated that Pandas are massagers of goodwill, adding that it symbolises peace and harmony, friendship, resilience and gentleness.
He further highlighted culture exchange as a key bridge for China – Nigeria cooperation.
The interactive session has in attendance a senior Chinese Diplomat, Mr. Zhou Hongyou, , some Directors of the Ministry, Representatives of the Embassy of the People Republic of China, Artists and Students.
Amadi Uloma Nneka
Head, Press and Public Relations
FMACTCE
