By Ochiaka Ugwu
Permanent Secretary of Nigerian Ministry of Innovation, Science & Technology, Mukhtar Yawale Muhammad and Director General, Voice of Nigeria (VoN), Jibrin Baba Ndace have hailed China’s effort in deepening relations with Nigeria.
The duo speaking at the grand opening of the event, Fan, Charm and Ink Fragrance, the Cultural Resonance of Traditional Calligraphy and Tang Dynasty Virtual Reality VR used to observe the International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations held Wednesday at Chinese Cultural Centre, Abuja noted China’s commitment in deepening relations with Nigeria for mutual benefits.
Muhammad said that China and Nigeria have a lot to share, not only in terms of culture and heritage and tradition, but also in advancing the efficiency of human performance in the globe.
He noted that Nigeria’s dialogue with the Chinese civilization would advance it further in terms of technology, innovation and in science.
Continuing, Muhammad informed of establishment of bilateral relationships with China, including several Memorandum of Understanding, saying that commemorating the day would advance further any discussions they had, concretize the plans and ensure that the two civilizations come together to work for the benefit of mankind.
He said it was not just about celebrating calligraphy, but celebrating the cultures and good things that have been happening between the two countries.
Director General, Voice of Nigeria, Jubrin Baba Ndace who commended China for their consistent commitment to promoting cultural exchange, mutual understanding, and people-to-people connection with Nigeria, said VON valued its growing partnership with the China Cultural Centre and other Chinese institutions.
He said that China’s collaboration and support enabled Voice of Nigeria to commence Mandarin-language broadcasting, a significant milestone that was strengthening communication, cultural understanding, and media cooperation between the two nations.
Ndace pledged total commitment to deepening the relationship by promoting intercultural dialogue, sharing authentic stories, and building bridges of friendship between their peoples.
“And as a media organisation, we have a responsibility to ensure that we are deepening differences and collaboration. And when you go to China, wherever you go to in China, China is growing and building on its own foundation and legacy” he said.
While congratulating China for the support and initiative, Ndace assured you of continual partnership in advancing cultural diplomacy, mutual respect, and global understanding.
In his opening remarks, Cultural Counselor of China Embassy in Nigeria and Director of China Cultural Centre, Yang Jianxing describing the Day as special, informed that in 2024, the 78th United Nations General Assembly unanimously adopted a resolution proposed by China and 83 other countries, establishing June 10th of each year as International Day for Dialogue of Civilisations.
He stated the need to enhance understanding and cultivate mutual trust through dialogue, promote unity, and seek consensus through exchanges and continuously solidify the cultural foundation for building a community with a shared future for mankind.
Yang said that holding the exhibition was one of the important measures to promote cultural exchange and mutual learning between China and Nigeria.
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