By Favour Ulebor

The Counselor for Cultural Affairs at the Chinese Embassy and Director of the China Cultural Center,
Yang Jianxing, has said cultural exchanges are a key component in deepening ties between China and Nigeria, describing them as a bridge of friendship and understanding.

He stated this during the Chinese Pingtan Art performance themed “Wuxi Ballads: Portrait of Watertown”, performed by the Wuxi Pingtan Troupe and organised by the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria and the China Cultural Center in Nigeria (CCCN) recently in Abuja.

He praised the rich heritage of the Jiangnan region, where Pingtan originated, and thanked Nigerian friends for supporting cultural exchange.

He said, “Cultural exchanges and mutual learning are important ways to deepen the friendly feelings between the people of China and Nigeria.”

Also speaking, Deputy Director of the Wuxi Pingtan Troupe, Mr. Shen Jie, said Pingtan uses delicate sounds to express human emotions.

“We hope this art serves as a bridge of peace, understanding, and harmony,” he said.

Raphael Oraeluno, who represented Nigeria’s Ministry of Art, Culture and Creative Economy, noted that Pingtan connects with African oral traditions. He called for deeper partnerships between both nations.

The Director of FCT Secondary Education, Mrs. Fatima Sambo, praised China’s outreach and said exposing students to other cultures builds identity and national pride.

The President of the Chinese Alumni Association and Society of Nigerian Artists, Mohammed Suleiman, said cultural exchanges offer economic opportunities through music, costume, and design.