By Ochiaka Ugwu
Permanent Secretary in the Nigerian Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Oraeluno Raphael Obi has said the collaborative efforts with China in cultural exchanges, art exhibitions, and tourism initiatives had enriched Nigerian societies and created avenues for economic growth and development.
Obi who made this known during the celebration of Chinese Lunar New Year “Year of the Golden Snake” Saturday in Abuja said that China’s resilience and unyielding commitment to promoting and developing bilateral cultural ties with Nigeria were commendable and truly inspiring.
Obi while thanking Chinese Ambassador and Cultural Counsellor for their good work in Nigeria expressed solidarity with Chinese friends, saying they are not only celebrating the new year but also the enduring friendship between the two nations.
“As we usher in the “Year of the Snake,” a symbol of wisdom and transformation, we stand in solidarity with our Chinese friends, celebrating not only the arrival of a new year but also the enduring friendship between our two nations. Nigeria celebrates with you!
“The relationship between Nigeria and China is steeped in history, marked by mutual respect and shared aspirations. Just as the snake sheds its skin to embrace new beginnings, our bilateral ties continue to evolve, reflecting our commitment to wisdom and transformation.
“This year, as we celebrate the Lunar New Year, we are reminded of the importance of nurturing our cultural connections, which serve as a bridge between our peoples. Both Nigeria and China boast rich and diverse cultures, with deep historical roots that resonate through our contemporary contexts.
“From the vibrant festivals of Nigeria to the colourful traditions of China, we find common ground in our values of family, community and respect for our elders. Our culinary delights, artistic expressions and traditional practices showcase the beauty of our cultures, fostering a spirit of understanding and appreciation.
“Moreover, the goodwill that China has extended towards Nigeria in various sectors, particularly in culture and tourism, has been instrumental in enhancing our bilateral relationship.
“The collaborative efforts in cultural exchanges, art exhibitions, and tourism initiatives have not only enriched our societies but have also created avenues for economic growth and development” noted.
Also speaking, the Ambassador of People’s Republic of China to Nigeria, Mr. Yu Dunhai informed of China’s willingness to work with Nigeria to increase trade volume.
Mr. Yu who said the trade volume was in the region of over N20 billion noted that Nigeria was the largest engineering contract, the second largest exporting market and the third largest trade partner for China in Africa.
“And of course, we would like to work with Nigeria to bring our trade volume to even higher because we see there is a big potential.
“Nigeria is a major African country that has world influence and particularly Nigeria is now also a partner country of BRICS” he said.
Deputy Director of Beijing Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism, Mr. Xu Zhentao said the people of Beijing were warm-hearted and hospitable and sincerely invite all Nigerian friends to visit the historical and vigorous city, to appreciate its abundant tourism resources and distinctive city beat.
“Meanwhile, I hope to take this promotional conference as a new starting point to further deepen the cultural and tourism exchanges and cooperation between Abuja and Beijing” he said.
