China-ASEAN Film Week Opens in Vientiane to Foster Cultural Exchange

The Ministry of Culture and Tourism, in collaboration with the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region of China, the Chinese Embassy in Laos, and Thailand’s Media Development Fund, has opened the 'China-ASEAN Film Week' in Vientiane. The opening ceremony was attended by Mr. Phakhanxay Sikhanxay, Deputy Minister of Culture and Tourism of Laos; Mr. Chen Yijun, Member of the Standing Committee of the Regional Party Committee and Head of the Publicity Department of the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region; and Ms. Fang Hong, Chinese Ambassador to Laos. Representatives from film regulatory bodies, film industry professionals, scholars, educators, and students also participated. The opening featured cultural and artistic performances by Lao and Chinese artists, followed by a screening of the Chinese film 'Love Letter to Grandma,' which explores themes of family relationships and traditional culture. During the Film Week, 10 selected films from China and Southeast Asian countries will be screened at the Vientiane Center cinema until September 29. These films delve into themes such as family and human relationships, modern development, and youth, offering audiences an opportunity to learn about the cultural traditions and contemporary life of participating nations. Under the theme 'Mountains and Seas Merge, Illuminating the Cinematic Future,' the event is organized by the China Film Association in cooperation with the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the Lao PDR and the Publicity Department of the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. In addition to film screenings, the program includes discussions on film cooperation and sharing sessions with filmmakers. These activities aim to expand regional film exchanges, encourage joint productions, and strengthen cultural and people-to-people ties between China and Southeast Asia. The event also provides a platform for filmmakers and industry professionals to exchange experiences and explore opportunities for future cooperation, contributing to greater mutual understanding among the peoples of the region.