Strengthening Bonds: Cultural Exchanges Boost China-Russia Relations

On May 8, 2025, a significant cultural exchange event took place to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the Soviet Union's Great Patriotic War. Hosted by the China Media Group (CMG) and the All-Russia State Television and Radio Broadcasting Company (VGTRK), this gathering underscored the deep historical ties and modern collaboration between China and Russia.

Eighty-seven years ago, in September 1938, the Soviet cameraman Roman Lazarevich Karmen was sent to China to document the valiant efforts of Chinese soldiers and civilians during World War II. Karmen’s work highlighted the essential support offered by the Soviet volunteers in the air force. His grandson, attending the recent event, shared moving anecdotes that reflected his family’s historical connection with China, showcasing the enduring nature of these ties.

The event also served to launch the 2025 China Film Festival in Russia, featuring discussions led by the creative minds behind the co-produced movie "Red Silk," which premiered in Russia earlier this year and is slated for debut in Chinese theaters this September. Notably, the event was a platform for the announcement of a peace-themed project focusing on collecting historical artifacts, images, and stories from both nations to foster a narrative of peace and shared futures.

A documentary, "The Great Victory – China's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression Through the Lens of a Soviet Photographer," began filming on the same day. This documentary aims to reflect on the experiences of Soviet photojournalist Roman Kalman and his impactful photographic work during the war. Shen Haixiong, the vice minister of the Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China, and Oleg Dobrodeev, CEO of VGTRK, emphasized the fruitful collaborations between the two media organizations, calling for greater exchange of content, innovation in technology, and development of personnel.

Chinese President Xi Jinping sent a congratulatory message, recalling the indelible contributions of both nations towards the victory in the World Anti-Fascist War 80 years ago and emphasizing the necessity of cultural exchanges in reinforcing mutual understanding and good-neighborly relations. Similarly, Russian President Vladimir Putin also expressed his support for this vital cultural link.

In light of agreements made between President Xi and President Putin in 2023, 2024 and 2025 have been designated as the China-Russia Years of Culture. Since the start of 2024, both countries have embarked on a spectrum of cultural initiatives aimed at enriching their longstanding relationship. This multifaceted cultural celebration continues to open doors for deeper interpersonal connections and shared cultural narratives between the two nations.

The event exemplified how cultural exchanges can serve as vital conduits for diplomacy and friendship. By shedding light on the common historical narratives and contemporary artistic expressions, both China and Russia are investing in a future of collaborative spirit and mutual respect.

Thus, as these cultural dialogues unfold, they not only commemorate the past but also pave the way for continued partnership and understanding in various domains, ultimately enhancing the cultural fabric that unites the people of both countries.