As the People's Republic of China (PRC) approaches its 75th anniversary on October 1, special cultural events were held in Abuja, Nigeria, and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, to commemorate the milestone.
The series, titled \"Written in the Sky: My China Story\", was launched by China Media Group in March 2024 with the aim of collecting and sharing personal stories related to China from around the globe. This initiative underscores the growing cultural and diplomatic ties between China and various nations.
In Abuja, attendees viewed the documentary \"Close Friends across Continents\", which showcases the collaborative efforts between China and African countries. The film highlights the deep connections between their peoples and the mutual exchange of cultures and ideas.
Yu Dunhai, the Chinese ambassador to Nigeria, emphasized the strength and resilience of Sino-Nigerian relations. \"Since establishing diplomatic ties over half a century ago, our relationship has not only weathered international changes but has also grown stronger. As we elevate our ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership, China and Nigeria are committed to advancing modernization and contributing to the well-being of our peoples,\" said Yu.
Jafaru Yakubu, chairman of the House Committee on China/Nigeria Parliamentary Friendship Group, added, \"China has been pivotal in driving economic growth, creating jobs, and improving infrastructure in Nigeria and across Africa. Our collaboration continues to foster mutual prosperity and development.\"
The Riyadh event featured personal China stories shared by attendees, highlighting the rapid growth of people-to-people exchanges between China and Saudi Arabia. Saleh Alsagri, former cultural counselor at the Saudi Embassy in China, noted a significant increase in Saudi students studying in China—from fewer than 80 to over 1,200 in just four years. \"These students are now key contributors in Saudi Arabia's economic and scientific sectors, strengthening our friendly relations with China,\" Alsagri remarked.
Yahiya Mahmoud bin Junaid, chairman of the Saudi Center for Research and Intercommunication Knowledge, highlighted the synergy between China's Belt and Road Initiative and Saudi Vision 2030. \"Our political, economic, and cultural collaborations are flourishing, paving the way for a prosperous future for both nations,\" he stated.
Guests at both events expressed optimism about deepening cultural exchanges and cooperation with China. They emphasized the importance of maintaining and strengthening friendships across generations to build a better future for Sino-Nigerian and Sino-Saudi relations.
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Special cultural events in Nigeria, Saudi Arabia mark PRC's 75 years
cgtn.com
