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Nigeria and China strengthen cultural ties through Wushu martial arts
via Punch Nigeria2 min read
Nigeria and China have reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing cultural diplomacy and people-to-people exchanges through Wushu, a traditional Chinese martial art. This commitment was reiterated during the Wushu Premium Exhibition held at the China Cultural Centre in Abuja. Yang Jianxing, Cultural Counsellor of the Chinese Embassy and Director of the China Cultural Centre in Nigeria, stated that cultural exchange is vital for promoting mutual learning and bringing people closer. He described Wushu as a significant symbol of Chinese civilization, embodying values such as respect, virtue, harmony, and peaceful coexistence, and emphasized that its essence lies in conflict prevention rather than pursuit. The exhibition featured demonstrations and interactive sessions led by Professor Wu Dong and his team from Beijing Sport University. Jianxing pledged continued cooperation in language education, arts, tourism, youth exchanges, and sports. Abiodun Ogidan, Director of Programmes at the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, commended the Chinese Embassy for promoting intercultural dialogue, highlighting the success of the weekly "Ni Hao" program, which teaches Mandarin and showcases Chinese culture. The National Sports Commission also reiterated its commitment to using sports and cultural diplomacy for youth engagement, international cooperation, and national development, with Musa Ahmadu, Special Adviser Legal and former Secretary-General of the Nigeria Football Federation, noting
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