The sixth Asian Film Festival officially kicked off on Tuesday at the China Cultural Center in Nigeria’s capital, Abuja.
The festival which seeks to strengthen the bond of friendship between Nigeria and the Asian Diplomatic Community through film and cultural exchange, attracted diplomats from eight Asian countries, including China, Iran, Korea Republic, India, Bangladesh, The Philippines, Turkey, Malaysia, Vietnam and officials of the Nigerian government.
In his opening remarks, Yang Jianxing, Cultural Counsellor of the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria, emphasized that the festival is more than just an entertainment event, but a vital platform for sharing stories that reflect the unique traditions, values, and artistic expressions of Asian cultures.
“This event builds a bridge between Asia and Nigeria, helping us understand each other better. Through this festival, we are celebrating not just films but also the teamwork and shared spirit that unite us,” Yang stated.
He encouraged attendees to embrace the festival as an opportunity to celebrate both their differences and commonalities.
“Let’s work together, move forward together,” he said, expressing his enthusiasm for the journey ahead.
Also speaking, Raphael Obi Oraeluno, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy, said the festival demonstrates the transformative power of cinema in facilitating cross-cultural dialogue and enhancing global understanding.
“In this age of rapid globalization, the role of cultural exchange has never been more vital as we strive to foster understanding and cooperation among nations through programs of this sort. The medium of film serves as a powerful bridge, connecting diverse cultures and allowing us to share our unique narratives with the world,” Oraeluno said.
He further noted that cultural exchange within the film industry creates opportunities for economic growth.
“The promotion of our cultural industries can lead to job creation, support for local economies, and the enhancement of our cultural heritage tourism. When we invest in our creative economies, we are not just investing in the arts; we are investing in the future.”
The festival, which runs from November 26-30, 2024, will showcase a variety of films from eight prominent Asian countries alongside Nigerian films.
One of the highlights of this year’s festival is the screening of the popular Chinese film “Monster Hunt,” a heartwarming tale about a hero and heroine on a quest to rescue the son of the former monster king, which previously captivated audiences in China.
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