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By Stephen Benjamin
Participants at the Belt and Road Seminar on Ethnic Policy and Practice in China have expressed optimism that the programme will strengthen cooperation, promote knowledge sharing, and support development among participating countries.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the two-week seminar, organised by the Academy for International Business Officials (AIBO) under China’s Ministry of Commerce, has drawn participants from Asia and Africa.
Some of the participants at the Belt and Road Seminar on Ethnic Policy and Practice in China holding from June 10 to 23. (NAN photo).
Ms Katarina Babang, Head of Unit at Indonesia’s Ministry of Home Affairs, commended the programme for combining theory with practical field experience.
“We express our appreciation for this training programme, which is conducted comprehensively both in theory and field practice.
“This programme will present Chinese ethnic governance theory, institutional practices, and the experience of building a strong sense of community for the Chinese nation,” she said.
Babang said community-level ethnic governance was particularly relevant to Indonesia as a multi-ethnic nation.
“We hope this forum will strengthen solidarity among Silk Road countries and enhance economic, social, cultural, and political cooperation,” she added.
Mr Anthony Gomez, Principal Assistant Secretary at The Gambia’s Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, said the seminar would offer useful lessons for national development.
“My expectation for this programme is to understand how China manages to unite all ethnic groups for its development, as well as see areas in which we can learn from them to make development for our countries,” he said.
“A lot of people have come to China to learn about good practices, and The Gambia has benefited a lot from this.”
Mr Ayodeji Olowookere, President of Phoenix Friends Club of Abuja, described the seminar as an opportunity for open-minded learning and deeper understanding of international ethnic policy frameworks.
“I have come with an open mind to learn new policies and what it takes to be a participating country in South-South cooperation initiatives,” he said.
Mr Emmanuel Kon Nok, a legal practitioner with South Sudan’s Ministry of Culture, Museum and National Heritage, said the programme would broaden participants’ understanding of Chinese governance and development.
“It will be a great opportunity because when you learn about Chinese culture and governance, you understand how they are trading their technology and inviting African countries to learn,” he said.
Kon Nok also expressed hope for future cooperation in cultural preservation and heritage development.
“South Sudan is a vital part of Africa, and we welcome cooperation in heritage and museum development,” he said.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Emmanuel Yashim
