Hunan-Africa Dialogue: A Cultural Exchange for Future Cooperation

On November 14, 2025, a significant cultural exchange session took place in Johannesburg, South Africa, as part of the conference on the China-Africa partnership during the Global South Media and Think Tank Forum. The session was aptly titled "Hunan-Africa Dialogue: Connecting Cultures for a Shared Future." This event gathered cultural officials, media representatives, leaders from cultural enterprises, and think tank experts from both China and Africa, setting the stage for exploring new avenues for cultural exchanges and cooperation.

Zhao Chengxin, the Director-General of the Information Office of the Hunan Provincial People's Government, delivered a compelling speech emphasizing the deep-rooted cultural links between Hunan and Africa. He outlined that these connections are nurtured in a fertile ground of cultural resonance, reflecting the importance of mutual understanding and collaboration. In his remarks, Siafa G. Sheriff, president of the Liberia-China Friendship Organization, stressed that Sino-African integration goes beyond cultural exchanges; it plays a vital role in establishing a more harmonious and inclusive global order.

One of the highlights of the event was the unveiling of research achievements by several think tanks. Notably, the China Economic Information Service (CEIS), affiliated with the Xinhua News Agency, along with leading universities and the China-Africa Economic and Trade Promotion Council, collectively presented their latest findings on cooperation with Africa. The CEIS, based in Shanghai, released a report detailing Hunan's practices and explorations in economic and trade cooperation between China and Africa.

Wan Fangming, head of the Hunan Center of CEIS, pointed out that Hunan has consistently aimed to be a pioneer in fostering deeper economic and trade cooperation between China and Africa, thus providing valuable experience for such collaborations. The attendees unanimously agreed that cultural exchanges and industrial cooperation between China and Africa reveal vast prospects and significant potential.

This event not only allowed both sides to showcase their achievements and share experiences but also clearly delineated the direction and momentum for future cultural exchanges and industrial cooperation between the two regions. By positioning culture as a bridge and the connections between peoples as foundations, Sino-African cooperation is progressing hand in hand toward a common future.

In conclusion, the Hunan-Africa dialogue marks a pivotal moment in strengthening the ties between China and Africa. It emphasizes the importance of cultural exchange in forging deeper partnerships and sets a foundation for future collaborative efforts in various domains, enhancing mutual understanding and shared growth for the future.