Zim, China continue to cement cultural ties
ZIMBABWE and China are extending their cultural ties while focusing on digitalising Zimbabwe’s cultural and creative industry (CCI), a move that cements the two countries’ already excellent relations, Sports, Arts and Culture Minister, Kirsty Coventry has said.
Speaking yesterday at Celebration Centre in the Capital, during the Chinese New Year celebration, also known as the spring festival, Minister Coventry emphasised the need for the continued growth of Zim-Sino relations.
The vibrant ceremony featured martial arts displays, dancing, singing and other activities showcased by both the Chinese and Zimbabwean people.
Minister Coventry said Zimbabwe was appreciating the great work being done by the Chinese government in terms of investments and industrial growth.
“It is important and critical to also note and appreciate the efforts by the Chinese government and the Chinese business community who continue to support investment and industrial growth across Zimbabwe’s economy.
“We are experiencing multiple sector growth and success in the CCI because of the technology that China is bringing to Zimbabwe,” she said.
She said occasions like these would help locals better understand Chinese customs and culture.
“Celebration of the Chinese New Year provides our people with an opportunity to further enhance friendship and cooperation.
“It is through interactions such as these we are witnessing today, that we are able to deepen our understanding of each other’s cultures, traditions and values and in the process stir the development of our two nations.
“Today, we share the pride of the Chinese people in the celebration of their culture at a global scale. Even the United Nations has given recognition to this cultural event, the Chinese New Year,” she said.
War Veterans and Liberation Struggle Affairs Minister, Ambassador Chris Mutsvangwa said the United Nations now recognised the Chinese New Year on their calendar, which was a very positive thing.
“We do have other nations’ civilisation events being recognised by the United Nations so the Chinese New year is now a floaty holiday for the United Nations.
“This is a good thing as Chinese civilisation makes inroads by infusing itself with other global civilisations, creating one sense of humanity,” he said.
Chinese Ambassador to Zimbabwe Mr Zhou Ding weighed in describing education as a vital tool for personal growth and social development.
“Today, I am happy to bring you the Chinese martial arts, magic and instrumental performances,” he said.
“I hope these performances will open a small window for you to the magnificent world of Chinese art and culture.
“I wish you all to realise your dreams in the future and contribute to the peace and prosperity of Zimbabwe and the whole world.
The future belongs to you.”
He also reaffirmed Chinese support to Zimbabwe’s educational sector.
“The Chinese government has so far donated to a number of schools and universities in Zimbabwe including Chinhoyi University of Technology, Zimbabwe-China Friendship School in Bindura, Lupane Primary School, Warren Park D Primary School in Harare, and of course, here the Hatcliffe China-Zimbabwe Friendship High School.”
The forthcoming Chinese lunar year is the year of the dragon. In Chinese culture dragon symbolises good fortune, strength and wisdom.