Chinese Embassy, Startimes Host Film Festival Seek More Collaboration In Film Industry

The Cultural Counselor of the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria, Mr. Li Xuda has called for more collaboration between the Nigerian and Chinese film industries to promote harmony, peace, and unity between both continents.

The Cultural Counselor who stated this in Abuja at this year’s Chinese Festival noted that the involvement of Nigerians made the festival a mix of different cultures, voices, perspectives, and opinions, to achieve the goal of “Harmony In Diversity.

He observed that Film is a popular art form and an important part of the culture in modern society and the film industry in the world has become a critical part of the creative cultural industry.

”Here I want to give a special welcome to all our Nigerian friends and passionate movie lovers, your participation makes this year’s film festival a mix of different cultures, voices, perspectives, and opinions, which help us achieve the goal “Harmony In Diversity”, play well Nigeria-China Symphony and make our win-win cooperation possible.”

”The film is a popular art form and an important part of culture in our modern society, after decades of rapid development, the film industry in the world has become a critical part of the creative cultural industry.”

Most of us know that Nollywood is the second-largest film industry in the world, in terms of volume. Although Nollywood is popular across Africa, Europe, and America, it has yet to gain effective access to the vast Chinese market.

”Some of us know that China now becomes the world’s second-largest film market. Here I want to emphasize that Nollywood is important for China, The Chinese film market will be more open to Nollywood.”

On her part, the Director, International Tourism Promotion and Cooperation, Ministry of Tourism, Ms Dorothy Duruaku said the Nigerian film industry, is one of the largest and most prolific film industries in the world which has gained international attention for its rapid growth, unique storytelling, and cultural impact.

Ms Duruaku noted that the event was not just a celebration of cinematic artistry, but a powerful testament to the creativity, passion, and dedication of Chinese filmmakers.

”On behalf of the Federal Ministry of Tourism, I extend our heartfelt greetings to the Ambassador of the Peoples Republic of China and his team for this extraordinary film festival, she added.

According to her,” Films have a unique ability to transcend boundaries, to tell stories that touch our hearts, challenge our minds, and inspire us to see the world through different lenses.”

”Films have a unique ability to transcend boundaries, to tell stories that touch our hearts, challenge our minds, and inspire us to see the world through different lenses, they capture the essence of the human experience, highlighting our joys, struggles, dreams, and realities.”

She noted that this festival was a vibrant artistic expression of diverse narratives, a reflection of the rich cultural heritage and imaginative spirit that unite mankind.

”Festivals such as this is not just an event; it is a confluence of creativity, passion, and storytelling and a testament to the incredible talent and hard work of Chinese filmmakers who poured their heart and soul into their craft.”

The Chinese Film Festival has over the years played an increasingly significant role in promoting the overseas trade of Chinese films and facilitating exchanges and cooperation between Chinese and other countries particularly foreign filmmakers, while offering global audiences a multifaceted view of China’s rich cultural landscape and providing a window into the evolution of Chinese cinema.

”The festival today serves not only as a symbol of goodwill for Nigeria-China relations but also as a testament to the indomitable spirit of perseverance and ambition.”It marks a significant milestone and a platform for fostering deeper cross-cultural ties between China and Nigeria.”

”As yet another cultural feast to celebrate the diplomatic relations between China and Nigeria, the films selected for this festival cover diverse genres of contemporary Chinese films, depicting Chinese culture and society from a broad perspective.”

She expressed the hope that through the film festival, China-Nigeria cultural exchanges and cooperation would be further deepened.

Also speaking CEO of a pay-TV giant StarTimes, Mr Joshua Wang, said the festival is a celebration of the deep-rooted friendship between China and Nigeria,

Mr. Wang promised Nigerians that the films would leave a long-lasting impression and memories on movie lovers.

”We have introduced so many Chinese excellent movies, dramas, and series to the Nigerian audience through ST Kungfu, Sino drama, and our local partners’ channels.