At the 15th Beijing International Film Festival in 2025, nearly 400 diplomats, filmmakers and officials gathered for the inaugural "Diplomat Filmfest" opening ceremony in Beijing, celebrating cinema as a catalyst for global dialogue.
In his opening remarks, Chen Li, deputy director general of the Beijing Service Bureau for Diplomatic Missions, emphasized the power of film in diplomacy: "Today, cultural exchange requires mutual effort more than ever."
Montenegro ambassador Branko Bulatović echoed this sentiment: "An excellent film is also a kind of bridge that connects cultures, eras, periods and beliefs."
The event also saw the launch of the International Film Critics Committee under the China Film Critics Association, set to foster dialogue among global critics and spotlight Chinese cinema worldwide.
A major milestone was the unveiling of the Diplomat Filmfest Support System, offering diplomatic communities in the Chinese mainland access to over 1,000 films—from features and documentaries to animations.
For families, a special screening of the documentary "Panda Adventure" charmed audiences with the heartfelt journeys of six giant pandas from birth to retirement.
Attendees also explored "Modern Chengdu Through the Lens," an exhibition showcasing the 4,500-year-old city’s blend of rich heritage and contemporary dynamism.
Looking ahead, the "Diplomat Filmfest" will expand its cultural programs, leveraging the universal language of film to deepen mutual understanding and appreciation across borders.
Reference(s):
BJIFF 2025 launches 'Diplomat Filmfest' to foster cultural exchange
cgtn.com
