Participants at the Belt and Road Seminar on Ethnic Policy and Practice in China have expressed optimism that the programme will strengthen cooperation, promote knowledge sharing, and support development among participating countries.

The two-week seminar, organised by the Academy for International Business Officials under China’s Ministry of Commerce, has drawn participants from Asia and Africa.

Katarina Babang, the head of unit at Indonesia’s Ministry of Home Affairs, commended the programme for combining theory with practical field experience.

“We express our appreciation for this training programme, which is conducted comprehensively both in theory and field practice. This programme will present Chinese ethnic governance theory, institutional practices, and the experience of building a strong sense of community for the Chinese nation,” she said.

Ms Babang said community-level ethnic governance was particularly relevant to Indonesia as a multi-ethnic nation.

“We hope this forum will strengthen solidarity among Silk Road countries and enhance economic, social, cultural, and political cooperation,” she added.

Anthony Gomez, the principal assistant secretary at Gambia’s Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, said the seminar would offer useful lessons for national development.

Ayodeji Olowookere, the president of Phoenix Friends Club of Abuja, described the seminar as an opportunity for open-minded learning and a deeper understanding of international ethnic policy frameworks.

Emmanuel Kon Nok, a legal practitioner with South Sudan’s Ministry of Culture, Museum and National Heritage, said the programme would broaden participants’ understanding of Chinese governance and development.

Mr Kon Nok also expressed hope for future cooperation in cultural preservation and heritage development.

“South Sudan is a vital part of Africa, and we welcome cooperation in heritage and museum development,” he said. 

(NAN)