China, Nigeria Should Advance Bilateral Relations Through Dance, Says Envoy

By Bukar BOLORI

The Chargé D’affaires of the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria, Zhang Yi, has said China and Nigeria should leverage on dance culture to promote diplomatic relations between the two countries.

Zhang gave the advice on Thursday during the “Energy China – Nigeria Dance Competition” hosted by the Chinese Embassy in collaboration with China Energy International Group Nigeria Co., Ltd. among others.

He noted that dance has long been recognized as a universal language that transcends cultural differences and communicates emotions and stories in a powerful and evocative way.

He said: “We believe that dance expresses our feelings, our love, and also our passion towards life.

“Dance culture serves as a powerful means of expression and communication, breaking down barriers and promoting cooperation and understanding between nations.

“China and Nigeria have the potential to foster greater cultural exchange and communication through dance, despite their differences in language, religion, and ethnicity.

“Therefore the need for the two countries to use dance as a way to deepen relations between them for mutual benefits,”Zhang said.

Managing Director, China Energy Mr Li Baisheng, In his remarks, said that dance provides an avenue to appreciate the rich cultural heritage and diversity of both China and Nigeria while creating a platform for cultural exchange and collaboration.

He said: “We are not only focusing on infrastructure but also committed to promoting mutually beneficial cooperation through cultural exchange.

“By bringing together talented dancers from both nations, we believe the competition will highlight the beauty and artistry of traditional dance forms and showcase the shared values and traditions that unite the two countries,”Baisheng said.

Also speaking, President of Society of Nigerian Artists and President of China Alumni Association, Mr Muhammad Sulaiman, said that China and Nigeria have a long history of diplomatic relations characterized by mutual respect, cooperation, and friendship.

He said: “Over the years, both countries have engaged in various collaborative efforts spanning trade, infrastructure development, education, and cultural exchanges.

“The China-Nigeria Dance Competition represents a continuation of this productive partnership and a significant step towards strengthening people-to-people ties.”

On his part, the Director of China Cultural Centre in Nigeria, Mr. Li Xuda, expressed his appreciation for the platform provided for artists to encourage their active participation in promoting dance.

Li also encouraged other Chinese companies to be actively involved in cultural exchange activities to build a stronger relationship between China and Nigeria.

Prizes were given to winners in different categories, with Bwari dance group winning the first position from the Nigerian side with a cash prize of N500,000 and Wang Ao, the overall winner from the Chinese side equally going home with N500,000.

The second and third place winners got N200,000 and N100,000 each from both groups.