The Ambassador of People’s Republic of China to Nigeria, Cui Jian Chun, has revealed that he is working hard every day ensure that the relationship between Nigeria and China is strengthened.
The Ambassador also expressed satisfaction over the ability of both countries to continuously work hard to open new chapters of development and understanding, adding that the initiative, which is already well known and popular among Nigerians is called, sharing Chinese harmony and performing Nigerian symphony.
Ambassador Chun spoke at the Rejuvenation Book Series and Gifting Ceremony, organized by the China National Publications Import and Export(Group) in Abuja.
The 14th Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria hoped that rejuvenation book can give them the opportunity to share Chinese excellent culture about harmony in coexistence, integration, diversity and development.
The book written to underscore the trajectory of modern China and how far it has struggled, is a very important scholarly master piece that underlines China’s spiritual rejuvenation.
Also speaking at the occasion, the Director, Center for Chinese Studies, Mr. Charles Onunaiju, said that in both economic and political sectors, Nigeria/China cooperation has been demonstrated despite difference in social system and geography.
He added that both countries shared a common stand on a number of issues and they have a very wonderful working condition.
“The Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria is whom I will like to call a very tireless and chronic field worker.
“Today’s event which is part of donating book China rejuvenation series is already an important step in performing Nigeria symphony. The book written to underscore the trajectory of modern China, how far it has struggled is a very important scholarly master piece that underlines China’s spiritual rejuvenation.
“This book series not only shows Chinese consensus of momentums spiritual revival of their homeland but also an existential and practical demonstration of their common will for a shared prosperity”, he stated.
On his part, the National Librarian, Prof. Chinwe Veronica Anunobi, represented by the Director, Legal Deposit Department of the National Library of Nigeria (NLN), Dr. Adejumoke Ajibola, said that National Library greatly appreciated the Chinese Cultural Center because they have enjoyed a great relationship over the years.
She further explained that the Chinese cultural values that influence the Chinese people are harmony, benevolence, righteousness, courtesy, honesty and loyalty and we gathered here today because of their benevolence spirit.
“We at the National Library appreciate what you are doing and we what to continuously be a part of what you will still do in future.
“I won’t leave without telling you about areas in which we can still partner, areas like expertise exchange and reading guidance, also in capacity building and collaboration readership which we will be doing together.”
As part of the day’s activities, the Chinese Embassy hosted the 10th anniversary of China Cultural Center in Nigeria.
The Chinese Honorable Minister of Culture (MOC), Mr. Hu Hiping, stated that the two nations have consistently upheld sincerity, friendship and cooperation, fostering a lasting friendship.
Mr. Hiping stated that during the pandemic, both nations stood side by side in solidarity. He opined that both countries activated the program of China and Africa mutual visit between their culture personnel and those achievements have enriched the substance of bilateral cooperation between China and Nigerian and has also strengthened the cultural tourism ties and infused powerful momentum in the aspect of collaboration between the two countries.
In her remarks, the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, Dr. Ngozi Onwudiwe, stated that the center has offered a conducive atmosphere for various activities for schools, public and government agencies as well as the hub for art exhibition, musical concept of Nigeria China cultural performances, learning of Chinese language, documentaries and movies on Chinese culture.
“Just last year, the center hosted award ceremony for winners of photo contest and as well the joint celebration of Nigeria/China National Day and China/Nigeria Cultural Week in September 2022.
“In addition, the center has played a pivotal role in the promotion of inter relationship and people to people communication, which has become a strong part of our cultural and economic identity to nourish the closeness and value we shared as a people.
“There is therefore, no doubt that the two countries have experienced excellent mutually inclusive and productive relation so far over the years. This laudable project is born out of the subsisting media framework of the signed agreement of the cultural cooperation and exchanges between Nigeria and China.”
Speaking to the media, the Director General, National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC) and President, World Craft Council (WCC), African Region, Otunba Olusegun Runsewe, stated that the Cultural Center has enabled more Nigerians to speak Chinese language as well as been involved in their cultural activities.
“This is a window for Nigeria and China that have a lot in common to collaborate further and help our youths in technology development, especially in the areas of artificial technology”, he added.
