Nigeria has commended the Sixth Asian Film Festival in Abuja as a platform to strengthen cultural diplomacy and foster artistic collaboration, particularly between Nigeria and China.
The commendation was given at the opening ceremony of the 6th Asian Film Festival on Tuesday, hosted by the China Cultural Centre and the National Council for Arts and Culture in Nigeria.
Mr Raphael Oraeluno, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy, highlighted the power of cinema in promoting mutual understanding and economic opportunities.
He emphasised the role of international cooperation in the creative industries, stating that “international cooperation enhances the sharing of knowledge, resources, and innovative ideas.”
Oraeluno also called for policies to bolster cultural exchanges and partnerships, particularly between Nigeria and China.
He noted that platforms like the festival provided emerging artists and filmmakers with opportunities to share their narratives, which have the potential to change perceptions and foster global empathy.
Yang Jianxing, Director of the China Cultural Centre in Nigeria, highlighted the significance of the event in strengthening ties between Asia and Nigeria.
He stated that the festival “builds a bridge between Asia and Nigeria, helping us understand each other better.”
Jianxing also announced that the centerpiece of the festival was the screening of the Chinese film Monster Hunt, which exemplified the fusion of fantasy, humour, and cultural themes.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the festival was attended by ambassadors and representatives from Asian countries, including China, Iran, South Korea, Philippines, India, Malaysia, Nigeria, Turkey, and Vietnam.
