As a symbol of good relations and friendship between Fiji and China, a China Cultural Centre has been established.

Centre director Deng Xianfu said the centre was established under a memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed in November 2014 by the Chinese Foreign Affairs Minister, Wang Yi, and the Minister of Education, Heritage and Arts  Mahendra Reddy.

The signing was witnessed by the President of People’s Republic of China, Xi Jinping, and Fijian Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama.

China and Fiji have enjoyed very good relations over the last four decades and this year marks the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between them.

“To establish a cultural centre is a symbol of good relations and friendship between the two nations,” Mr Deng said.

“Under this circumstance, the Chinese and Fijian governments have agreed to establish a China Cultural Centre in Fiji.

“I hope the newly-established centre can help Fijians know China better; to help deepen the understanding and friendship between the two nations, and also serve as a bridge to introduce Fijian culture and arts to China,” he said.

“For example, we have just sent the invitation to the Ministry of Education, Heritage and Arts, inviting a folk art group of about 25 delegates to participate at the International Folk Art Festival.

“The festival is to be held in Xining of Qinghai Province in China in August, 2016.

“We are looking forward to having more two-way cultural communications with Fiji.”

He said it would be a platform for cultural exchange and co-operation between the two countries.

The centre is located on Levels 7 and 8, of the Ganilau House at Edwards Street, Suva. It will officially open on December 15.

The centre will include on Level 7, a big exhibition hall, four staff offices and a Chinese cooking display room. Level 8, will have three classrooms for training, a library plus an electronic reading room.

Mr Deng said: “We will have five staff members from China, and we plan to employ five local staff members at the centre. Government officials and cultural institution representatives from both China and Fiji will be attending the opening ceremony. There will be a Chinese Traditional Music Orchestra performing at the opening ceremony, and an exhibition of Selected Chinese Woodblock New Year Prints.

“The exhibition will be open to the public the day after the opening on December 16 to February 28, 2016, with free admission.”

Exhibitions at the centre in the future will be free to the public.

“All Fijians are welcome to the China Cultural Centre in Fiji. Please come to see us and experience Chinese culture,” Mr Deng said.

Feedback:  maraia.vula@fijisun.com.fj