Online Reporter
Richard Muponde
Zimpapers Politics Hub
CHINA has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Zimbabwe’s Heritage Based Education 5.0 and cultural development through deepening people to people connections, with cinema taking centre stage in strengthening bilateral relations.
Speaking at the opening of the inaugural China Film Festival
at Westgate last night, Chinese Ambassador to Zimbabwe Zhou Ding, said the film showcase was not only a cultural celebration, but also a contribution to the transformation agenda championed by President Mnangagwa.
“As we celebrate the 45th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Zimbabwe, I am confident that this film festival will bring our two nations closer, and further contribute to advancing both the Global Civilisation Initiative proposed by President Xi Jinping and Zimbabwe’s Heritage-Based Education 5.0 by President Mnangagwa,” said Ambassador Zhou.
The Ambassador said Zimbabwe and China shared an “unbreakable bond” that was grounded not only in strategic cooperation but in people-to-people exchanges that reinforced cultural understanding.
He highlighted that cinema, a universal language, was now a tool for building bridges between countries, especially among young people in the education sector.
“Cinema transcends borders and speaks directly to the heart.
These films are not just Chinese stories, they are human stories that reflect our shared aspirations,” he said.
Ambassador Zhou revealed that the Chinese Embassy would host several cultural activities this year, including an essay competition, art exhibitions, and sports exchanges, all aimed at reinforcing educational and cultural cooperation under the 45th anniversary of diplomatic relations.
China has also backed Zimbabwean creative talents on international platforms. Ambassador Zhou cited last year’s Zimbabwe Stone
Sculpture Exhibition in Beijing and the success of Zimbabwean footballer Nyasha
Mushekwi in the Chinese Super League as examples of cultural excellence.
Founder of the China Film Festival Zimbabwe and Cinema
Society of Zimbabwe director, Mr Richard Tentone echoed the Ambassador’s remarks, calling the festival “an opening chapter” in building a new film economy.
“Today is not just about screenings, it’s about scripting a new narrative of partnership rooted in reciprocity, human connection, and a shared cinematic future,” said Mr Tentone.
He proposed a bilateral film co-production treaty, an exchange programme, and a jointly funded feature film to premiere simultaneously in Harare and Beijing by 2027.
The festival opened with the Chinese box office hit Panda Plan and runs through the weekend, showcasing four top-grossing films.
Online Reporter