Synergy
By Priscilla Osaje
Mr Kim Pankyu, Korean Ambassador to Nigeria, has called for stronger synergy among Asia countries to promote their unique tradition, values and creativity.
Pankyu made the call at the opening ceremony of the 6th Asian Film Festival in Abuja on Tuesday.
According to him, sharing customs and culture with one another especially when it has to do with movies is quite necessary for the growth and development of Asia countries.
“We have a good chance to share each country’s customs, cultures and mind after watching these movies. Then we can understand the uniqueness of these countries.
“It is very significant to enjoy every bit of these films showing at this event, after that, we hope to visit each of the countries.”
The envoy commended Mr Yang Jianxing, Cultural Counsellor of People’s Republic of China and Director of China Cultural Center in Nigeria (CCCN), for fascinating good books which would be available for everyone to enjoy before the end of the festival.
In his remarks, the Director of CCCN, Jianxing, said that Asian Film Festival has bridged the gap between Asia and Nigeria by promoting better understanding between two countries.
“Event such like this reminds us on how films can bring people together, no matter where they come from because it shows us what we have in common.
“The film festival is a reminder on how Asian countries and Nigeria come together to work in harmony.
” Through this event, we are not just showcasing films, but teamwork and shared spirit that unite us together,” he said.
Mr Raphael Oraeluno, Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy (FMACCE), said opening ceremony of the prestigious East Asian Film Festival signals the celebration of creativity, collaboration and vibrant cultures of the rich and the poor.
Oraeluno said organising such festival in Nigeria would further promote the existing cordial relationship between Nigeria and China.
“I am aware that this festival will showcase diverse films from eight prominent Asian countries, and that Nigeria’s National Council for Arts and Culture will also participate.
“Indeed, it is a platform to foster deeper cultural and social cohesion among nations. This East Asian Film Festival in Abuja will provide an invaluable opportunity to strengthen the cultural diplomacy and foster artistic exchange.
“Through the active collaboration of multiple Asian countries, this festival emphasises the power of cinema to create connections beyond the borders and promote mutual understanding between diverse cultures.”
He added that everyone should be reminded of the profound impact that cultural exchange and international cooperation could have on global community.
“I am proud to say that this event underscores the transformative power of cinema, in facilitating cross-cultural dialogue and enhancing global understanding.
“In this stage of rapid globalisation, the role of cultural exchange is imperative as we strive to foster understanding and cooperation among nations through this film festival.
“The medium of film serves as a powerful bridge connecting diverse cultures and allowing us to share our unique narratives with the world.”
The scribe implored everyone to view the festival as a celebration of the rich diversity of Asian cinema, by recognising that film transcends geographical borders.
“It reflects our shared human experiences while celebrating our distinct identities,” he added.
According to him, cultural exchange, sharing of knowledge and resources in the film industry create opportunity for economic growth.
“The promotion of our cultural industries can lead to job creation, support for local economies, and enhancement of our cultural heritage and tourism.
‘When we invest in our creative economies, we are not just investing in the arts, we are also investing in the future.”
He emphasised the need to initiate more policies that support cultural exchange and encourage partnership between Nigeria and China.
“By doing so, we can create platforms to imagine artists and filmmakers, ensuring that their voices are heard and their stories are told in every part of the world.
“Each story has the power to change perceptions and to inspire and to heal the wounds of division,” he said.
Ms Vartika Rawat, Deputy High Commissioner of India, said the India has the largest producer of movies in the world, with the production of around 2,000 movies every year and approximately generates around 30 billion dollars.
According to her, Bollywood industry alone in India, among other industries of different languages in India employed nearly half a million people.
Rawat added that such popularised Indian movies in Nigeria as well as her expertise in the sector.
“India and Nigeria are also looking at a memorandum of understanding on audio-visual co-production, to harness the potential between the two countries.”
According to her, ‘Namaste Wahala’ is a movie and postcards in series on Netflix and these are recent successes of this collaboration between India and Nigeria.
“In fact, I am happy to inform you that India will be hosting the world audio-visual and entertainment summit in February 2025.
“I understand that all the countries participating at the sixth Asian Film Festival here today will be participating enthusiastically in that world audio-visual summit,” she said.
Featuring at the event was Chinese dance by Government Secondary School, Jabi and GSS Garki as well as modern dance by Drum Major for Peace.
NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA