Diplomats from the Republic of China, the Republic of Korea, the Republic of Turkey, the Republic of Iran, and Japan convened at the Chinese Cultural Centre in Wuse, Abuja, to celebrate the 7th Asian Film Festival.
This eagerly awaited festival showcases five diverse films spanning drama to animation and aims to strengthen cultural ties between Asian nations and Nigeria.
The event serves not only as a display of cinematic excellence from the participating countries but also as a vital platform for fostering meaningful cross-cultural exchanges.
By presenting a variety of narratives and perspectives, the festival encourages dialogue and insight among attendees.
The diplomats expressed their enthusiasm for the festival, emphasising the significance of cultural collaboration in promoting mutual respect and cooperation in an increasingly interconnected world. Yang Jianxing, the Cultural Counsellor at the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria and Director of the China Cultural Centre, remarked that the Asian Film Festival is a historic initiative designed to enhance relations between Asian and African civilisations.
During the festival’s opening on Tuesday, Jianxing noted, “Culture nourishes us, and film is a crucial aspect of this culture, a medium that allows us to comprehend the lifestyles of different nations.” He highlighted the value of understanding each other’s unique societies while acknowledging the similarities that unite us.
Jianxing also expressed gratitude to all participating ambassadors and embassies for their passionate involvement in making the Asian Film Festival a success in its seventh edition, noting, “This event is a wonderful opportunity for the warm and welcoming Nigerian people to explore the rich cultures of Asia.”
He specifically thanked the Korean embassy and the Korean Cultural Centre in Nigeria (KCCN) for their contributions and the screening of a captivating short film. Jianxing added that the Chinese embassy would present a humorous film blending Korean creative ideas with Chinese artistry, showcasing the potential for cultural exchange and friendship among Asian nations.
Mr Kozaki Hitoshi, Charge d’Affaires at the Embassy of Japan, emphasised the rich narrative traditions in Asian cinema, stating that the festival provides an excellent opportunity for attendees to engage with Asian cultures and deepen their understanding of them. “I hope many resilient friends will grow familiar with Asian films and develop a greater interest in the diverse cultures of Asia through this festival,” he remarked.
Mr Jeon Juho, Director of the KCCN, described the festival as a means to promote deeper understanding through the lens of Asian cinema. He reflected on the festival’s inception on July 3, 2017, noting how participants have continued to support the event due to their shared appreciation for cultural expressions and values.
This year, he highlighted Korea’s entry, “The Way Home,” a poignant film that elegantly captures rural culture and universal family bonds, receiving both domestic and international praise.
Juho emphasised that the films showcased this year tell powerful, character-driven stories centred on family, connection, and personal growth, each viewed through the unique cultural perspectives of their respective countries.
He stated, “These narratives, whether set in vibrant cities or tranquil villages, extend beyond mere entertainment. They offer glimpses into people’s lives, aspirations, and challenges, reminding us that our shared dreams unite us.”
Also, Mr Gholamreza Mahdavi Raga, Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to Nigeria, underlined that the festival is not just a celebration of cinema, but also of cultural dialogue, mutual understanding, and friendship among nations.
He commended the participating countries, China, Japan, the Republic of Korea, and Turkey, for their commitment to fostering these meaningful connections through the medium of film.
