Oliver Wonekha, Ambassador of The Republic of Uganda to China, attended the opening ceremony and delivered a speech

China Friendship Foundation for Pease and Development

Secretariat of the Belt and Road Women's Forum

China People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries

All-China Federation of Returned Overseas Chinese

United Nations Resident Coordinator

Excellencies and Colleagues

Distinguished guests,

Ladies and Gentlemen

 

I wish to express my appreciation to the People's Government of Sanya City, China Friendship Foundation for Peace and Development,and Secretariat of the Belt and Road Women's Forum for joining hands in organizing this forum. The theme of the forum,“She Power: Jointly Building and Sharing a Beautiful Life," signifies the collective strength of women in constructing and sharing a fulfilling and harmonious life. It emphasizes the importance of collaboration, unity, and empowerment among women along the Belt and Road initiative. This theme encourages women to work together, support one another, and create a network that fosters personal growth, meaningful relationships, and overall well-being, leading to a beautiful and balanced life for all.

 

Cultural exchanges have long been recognized as a powerful means to foster mutual understanding, appreciation, and respect among diverse societies. They provide an opportunity to celebrate our rich cultural heritage, share our traditions, and learn from one another. Such exchanges are not only confined to the realms of art, music, and literature, but also extend to areas such as education, science, technology, and sports.

 

Ladies and Gentlemen,

 

One of the key benefits of cultural exchanges is the opportunity for mutual learning. When we engage in genuine dialogue and open our hearts and minds to different cultures, we gain insights and knowledge that enrich our own perspectives. We learn to appreciate the shared values and aspirations that unite us as human beings, transcending borders and fostering a sense of global citizenship.

 

Cultural diplomacy plays a vital role in strengthening bilateral relations between Uganda and China. By deepening our cultural exchanges, we enhance the understanding and appreciation of our respective cultures, fostering a solid foundation for cooperation in various fields. It is through cultural diplomacy that we can build trust, promote dialogue, and find common ground on which to address shared challenges and pursue shared goals.

 

China and Africa and Uganda in particular share a deep appreciation for the importance of cultural exchange and mutual learning. Our nations have a long history of cultural ties, which have only grown stronger over the years. We have witnessed the exchange of artistic performances, the establishment of cultural centers, and the collaboration in educational and research institutions. These initiatives have not only enriched the lives of our citizens but have also contributed to the deepening of our bilateral relations.

 

Distinguished guests,

 

In line with the United Nations'Sustainable Development Goals, cultural exchanges play a vital role in achieving sustainable development. Cultural diversity and cultural industries contribute to economic growth, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability. By investing in cultural exchanges, we harness the potential of our cultural resources to create a more prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable future.

 

As we gather here today, I would like to emphasize the need to further enhance our cultural exchanges and promote mutual learning. By doing so, we can bridge the gaps between our societies, promote dialogue, and foster a sense of unity and harmony. It is through cultural exchanges that we can truly appreciate the beauty and diversity of our respective cultures, while also discovering the common values that bind us together.

 

I encourage all nations to continue investing in cultural exchange programs, providing opportunities for artists, scholars, and students to engage in meaningful interactions. Let us explore avenues to showcase our cultural heritage, facilitate language studies, and promote joint initiatives in research and innovation. By doing so, we can create a solid foundation for lasting friendships and cooperation between our nations.

 

As I conclude, I would like to express my gratitude once again to the organizers for hosting this theme forum. Let us seize this opportunity to deepen our cultural exchanges, promote mutual learning, and build a brighter future of understanding and collaboration between China and Uganda.

 

Thank you.