Cultural exchange activities held between China, Papua New Guinea to boost mutual understanding

A series of cultural exchange activities were held in Port Moresby on Monday between China and Papua New Guinea (PNG) ahead of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Leaders' Meeting.

Glamorous PNG, a documentary produced by China Central Television (CCTV), held a premiere ceremony. The documentary shows the natural scenery, history and culture, as well as modern life in PNG.

Also at the ceremony, a 30-minute news program, Today, co-produced by CCTV+ Video News Agency and other overseas media organizations, made debut. It will be broadcast in PNG and local media will join in production of the program.

PNG is a candid friend and an important partner for China among the Pacific island countries, as well as a key member to jointly build the Belt and Road Initiative, said Guo Weimin, deputy director of the State Council Information Office of China.

The documentary and the news program can display friendship between China and PNG through telling stories between the two countries, which is quite important to boost mutual understanding, he said.

Jerry Agus, chief executive officer of Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority, said PNG is now trying its best to make use of every opportunity to promote itself to the Chinese tourists, including a recent policy to allow group tourists from China to enjoy visas on arrival.

He said that APEC meeting is a life-time opportunity for PNG to market and promote itself, not only as a country, but more importantly as a tourist destination, so that people can know where PNG is.

More than ten mainstream media from the two countries sent representatives to attend the China-Papua New Guinea Media Dialogue. Participants exchanged views on how to boost cooperation in fields like news reporting and personnel exchanges.

A photo exhibition was launched on Monday afternoon at the University of PNG, displaying 100 pictures on the two countries landscapes, cultures and society.

Other cultural exchange activities include a donation ceremony to a local primary school, as well as a forum for people from China and PNG to share their experiences in building mutual friendship and trust.