BRICS Nations Unite for Cultural Dialogue at Rio de Janeiro University
The BRICS edition of the 'Dialogue of Civilizations' series was recently hosted at the State University of Rio de Janeiro, bringing together over 300 participants from member nations, including China, Brazil, Russia, South Africa, and India. The event, held on a Friday, emphasized the importance of cultural exchanges and solidarity among BRICS nations in facing global challenges.
Organized collaboratively by the Information Office of the State Council of China and the Legislative Assembly of the State of Rio de Janeiro, the event's primary theme revolved around strengthening cultural links to pave the way for a better future for the Global South. The China Intercontinental Communication Center (CICC) and local partners like the Guangdong provincial government’s information office collaborated to enrich the event’s offerings.
In the opening remarks, a representative from the Information Office of China highlighted that interactions among BRICS nations serve not only as dialogues across borders and cultures but also as powerful examples of solidarity and mutual development among countries of the Global South. As the BRICS alliance enters a new phase of enhanced cooperation, promoting cultural communication and mutual learning has become paramount. This ensures the BRICS Plus initiative evolves into something truly meaningful and inclusive.
Tia Ju, the Vice President of the Legislative Assembly of the State of Rio de Janeiro, echoed these sentiments by addressing the pressing issues of climate change, social inequalities, and geopolitical conflicts that the world currently faces. She underscored that BRICS nations represent the voice of the Global South, making the deepening of dialogue between civilizations crucial. Ju stated, "When we honor each other’s differences and celebrate global solidarity, we help lay the foundation for a sustainable future built on peace, empathy, and shared prosperity."
The event kicked off with a vibrant medley of popular songs from the BRICS countries performed by the Copacabana Fort Orchestra, captivating attendees with the rich musical traditions of the member nations. In addition, athletes, business leaders, and young professionals from BRICS countries shared their personal stories, illustrating their collective aspirations for common development rooted in resilience and collaboration.
Complementing the main program were thematic exhibitions, including the 'Declaration of Civilization', showcasing exquisite scroll paintings reflecting a shared vision for humanity's future; 'The Warmth of the World', a photo exhibition portraying the lifestyle of BRICS nations; and a graphical seals exhibition that shared insights into mutual learning among civilizations with a similar worldview. Notably, the 'Meeting in Guangdong' exhibition highlighted Lingnan's cultural innovations, while 'The Essence of China' delved into the realm of traditional Chinese medicine and offered interactive experiences on BRICS national crafts.
This event not only strengthened existing ties between participating nations but also reinforced the mutual commitment to cultural understanding and collaboration. As the BRICS nations look towards future challenges, their shared cultural initiatives at gatherings like this could prove essential in fostering a more united front for the Global South.