The Chinese Embassy in Nigeria on Tuesday joined global counterparts to commemorate the first-ever International Day for Dialogue Among Civilizations at the China Cultural Centre in Abuja.
Attended by embassy officials, diplomats, Nigerian government representatives, Chinese enterprises, and students, the event highlighted the importance of cultural dialogue in fostering global peace and cooperation.
Observed annually on June 10, the International Day for Dialogue Among Civilizations was established through a resolution proposed by China and adopted by the 78th UN General Assembly on June 7, 2024. The resolution advocates mutual respect, understanding, and cooperation among diverse civilizations as essential for promoting global peace, development, and shared progress.
In his welcome address, Zhang Yi, Charge d’Affaires of the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria, described the day as a recognition of all civilizations as part of humanity’s shared heritage.
“The establishment of this day reflects China’s Global Civilization Initiative, proposed by President Xi Jinping, and is a vital contribution to global peace and dialogue,” Zhang said.
He noted that the launch of the “Ten Partnership Actions for Modernization” at the 2024 FOCAC summit is aimed at advancing China-Africa cooperation, with cultural exchanges playing a critical role in fostering mutual understanding.
“Both China and Nigeria are ancient civilizations with rich histories. Through music, we start the China-Nigeria “Zhi Yin” dialogue, symbolizing deep mutual understanding and true friendship,” Zhang added.
Also speaking, Mukhtar Muhammad Yawale, Permanent Secretary of Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, and the Creative Economy, described Nigeria and China as “ancient souls conversing across millennia.” He drew parallels between Confucian wisdom and Nigeria’s Ubuntu ethos, as well as the vibrant synergy of Adire patterns and Chinese silk.
“Our ties are woven with shared values: respect for heritage, reverence for community, and the belief that diversity is divinity expressed,” he noted.
In his goodwill message, Wang Yi, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and China’s Minister of Foreign Affairs said Dialogue among civilization helps bridge divides and eliminates prejudice, which will reinforce the basis for mutual trust and safeguard common security.
He stressed that dialogue enables the exchange of minds and the sharing of technology, which facilitates countries around the world in their pursuit of common development and global modernization.
The event featured vibrant musical performances by Chinese and Nigerian troupes, blending traditional sounds to symbolize cultural unity.
