The Global Dialogue on Chinese Studies kicked off in Cairo on September 28, with Dr. Ashraf El-Azazi, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council for Culture, participating in the event. The conference aims to foster dialogue and cooperation between China and Arab countries, with a focus on cultural and academic exchanges. El-Azazi emphasized the significance of the event, which coincides with the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Arab countries.
El-Azazi highlighted the long-standing relationship between Egypt and China, which dates back to 1956 when Egypt became the first Arab and African country to establish formal diplomatic ties with the People's Republic of China. Since then, the relationship has evolved in various fields, including politics, economy, education, culture, and tourism. He noted that culture has become a vital bridge for communication between the two nations.
The Secretary-General of the Supreme Council for Culture emphasized that the relationship between China and the Arab world is no longer limited to economic and political partnerships but has expanded to include cultural exchanges. He stressed that cultural cooperation between Egypt and China is a cornerstone of their historical ties, with various initiatives, including cultural weeks, art festivals, and tourism events.
El-Azazi discussed the cooperation between the Supreme Council for Culture and the Chinese-Arab Center for Studies on Cultural Cooperation, which signed a protocol in May 2026 to promote cultural and tourism cooperation between Egypt and China. He expressed his belief that knowledge is the shortest path to building trust between nations and that cultural dialogue is essential for sustaining cooperation.
The conference provides a platform for researchers, academics, and decision-makers from China and Arab countries to exchange views and experiences. El-Azazi expressed his hope that the event would contribute to developing Chinese studies in the Arab world and enhancing academic and cultural cooperation. He also envisioned future cooperation in new areas, including joint research platforms and artist residencies.
The Global Dialogue on Chinese Studies will continue until September 30, with participants expected to explore ways to strengthen cultural and academic ties between China and Arab countries. The event is seen as a significant step towards promoting mutual understanding and cooperation between the two sides.
Key points
- The conference aims to foster dialogue and cooperation between China and Arab countries, with a focus on cultural and academic exchanges.
- Egypt and China have a long-standing relationship that has evolved in various fields, including politics, economy, education, culture, and tourism.
- The Supreme Council for Culture is committed to promoting cultural cooperation between Egypt and China, with a focus on building trust and understanding between the two nations.
