The Cultural Counselor of the Chinese Embassy and Director of China Cultural Centre in Nigeria, Li Xuda has said that cultural fiesta aims to promote cultural exchange between China and Nigeria and further enhance people to people communication between both countries.
Xuda made the remark on Tuesday at the opening of China-Nigeria Cultural Fiesta 2023 –Dancing Competition hosted by the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China through the Chinese Cultural Centre In Nigeria and organized in partnership with the FCT Secondary Education Board in Abuja.
Xuda reiterated that culture is the foundation of national development and the driving force of social progress, adding that both China and Nigeria are cultural giants with a long history.
“Culture plays an important role in the historical process of their national independence and revitalization.
“At the level of man and nature, we advocate harmony in coexistence; at the level of family and society, we advocate harmony in integration; at the level of nation and civilization, we advocate harmony in diversity; at the level of state and governance,
“We advocate harmony development. In short, our ultimate goal is to create a harmonious world.
“In recent years, the Embassy of P. R. China In Nigeria, China Cultural Centre In Nigeria has been working with FCT Secondary Education to jointly hold China-Nigeria Cultural Fiesta.
“I’m so happy to see that the cultural exchange among us has been greatly promoted! The friendship among us has been greatly strengthened!
“China-Nigeria Cultural Fiesta has really become a well-known cultural brand in Abuja!”he said.
Xuda also encouraged the students, as the future of Nigeria to not only tlearn scientific and technological knowledge, but also to master cultural skills, so that they can become talented and enjoy each day living life to the fullest.
“In my eyes, “China-Nigeria Cultural Fiesta” really can help you achieve that goal since it can provide you an amazing platform to strengthen your courage, improve your abilities, showcase your talents and build your friendship!
“I’d like to express my sincere appreciation to FCT SEB officials and your team, it is your great support and your team’s tireless efforts that make today’s event possible and wonderful.”Li said.
In his remarks, Director/Secretary of FCT Secondary Education Board, Dr Mohammed Ladan, expressed his appreciation to the Cultural Counselor and the Chinese Embassy for sponsoring this event annually and for providing very beneficial prizes to the schools.
He also noted that the event has been going on annually for more than a decade and it is jointly organized by the Culture Office of the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria and the FCT Secondary Education Board.
“The event showcases Nigerian and Chinese Arts in the form of dances, thereby promoting Cultural exchange between the duo and the 12 Chinese Corner Students.
“This annual event is significant to our schools because it provides an avenue for the students to unwind, socialize and at the same time earn very good prizes that have been helpful to the schools.
“We have not forgotten that, from this competition, schools have won TV sets, computers, Audio systems, fridges, water dispensers, scholarships, and so many other items supplied to Chinese Corners.
“Our collaboration has been of mutual benefit and we look forward to more beneficial cooperation,”Ladan said.
He also added that “we will continue to promote Chinese Culture in our schools and Nigeria as a whole, thereby improving our Cultural exchange in the 51 years of uninterrupted diplomatic relations.
“Your contribution to the educational and cultural development of our students is acknowledged and highly appreciated
“A people without culture is a people without identity, our cultural heritage is our pride, so we should uphold it.” He said.
The highlight of the event is the dancing competition among 10 public secondary schools in Abuja in three main categories, namely Chinese songs, Chinese dance and Nigerian songs and dance.
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