Films Are Windows To Our Shared Realities – Diplomats

Asian diplomats in Nigeria have described films as windows to shared realities between nations and as a tool for promoting mutual understanding.

The expats, director, Korea Culture Centre Nigeria (KCCN), Mr Ju Jeon Ho; director, Chinese Cultural Centre Nigeria (CCCN), Mr Yang Jiaxing; charge d’affaires, Embassy of Japan, Nigeria, Mr Kozaki Hitoshi, the ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Mr Mahdavi Raja, and the ambassador of the Republic of Turkey, Mr Mehmet Poroy, made this known at the opening of the 7th Asian Film Festival in Nigeria, which held from December 9 to 11 at the CCCN, in Abuja.

The festival screened five films from five participating countries: South Korea, Japan, China, Iran, and Turkey.

According to them, films are not mere entertainment, but a cultural tool that allows people to express themselves, reflect on “our societies and build bridges of mutual understanding and friendship.

“Culture and art are the universal language of humanity, and cinema holds a special place among them. Film has a unique power to tell stories that transcend borders, languages and politics. Through cinema, we can see the world through the eyes of others and discover how connected we are as human beings.

“In a world that increasingly needs dialogue, empathy and peace, cultural activities like this festival play a crucial role in breaking down barriers, extending mutual respect and bringing cultures close together. This festival represents a successful example of cultural cooperation among Asian nations,” Ambassador Raja said.

Founded in 2017 at the initiative of the Embassy of Iran, the Asian Film Festival has, over the past eight years, convened both Nigerians and the peoples of the participating countries, giving all a glimpse into their lives, culture and struggles.

“Eight years since we started, we still gather because we share a mutual appreciation for culture and shared values. Festivals as this, are a platform for fostering understanding, and engendering cross-cultural experiences through the richness of Asian cinema,” said Mr Jeon-ho.

Pleased at the opportunity the event presents Nigerian participants to understand Asian cultures further, CCCN director, Mr Jianxing expressed optimism that the experience would strengthen the bonds of friendship amongst the exhibiting Asian countries, and with Nigeria.

“Asia and Africa are close neighbours. I hope everyone here, Nigerians, and other nationalities showcasing at the festival attend to view the beauty of our friendship, and to see the beauty in ourselves,” Jianxing said.

The festival opened December 9, with the Chinese film ‘Moon Man’ – a comedy drama that had the audience in tears, as it followed the struggles, hope, resilience and the sacrifice of the protagonist. Iranian film ‘The Banana Garden’ and Turkish movie, ‘My Father and My Son’ screened on the second day, while ‘The Way Home’ (Korea) and ‘The Lines That Define Me’ (Japan) wrap up the festival on December 11.