The “BRICS Dialogue on Civilizations” took centre stage in Kazan, Russia, on September 24, gathering over 300 participants from various BRICS countries.
The event attracted representatives from academic institutions, experts, scholars, and youth, with discussions focused on cultural exchange and strengthening ties between BRICS nations.
Co-hosted by the State Council Information Office of China, the Government of the Republic of Tatarstan, and the Chinese Consulate-General in Kazan, the event was themed “Gathering the Power of People-to-people and Cultural Exchanges to Build a Bright Future for BRICS.”
It was organized by the China Intercontinental Communication Center and Kazan Federal University.
The dialogue emphasized the importance of cultural exchange and mutual learning as drivers of global peace and human progress. Organizers expressed hope that BRICS countries would deepen traditional friendships, strengthen cultural bonds, and inspire their citizens to become ambassadors of dialogue and cooperation.
The event also called for stronger support for the Global Civilization Initiative and highlighted the potential of the “BRICS+” cooperation platform to foster deeper cultural ties.
Cultural Leaders Speak on BRICS Cooperation
Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Tatarstan, Leyla Rinatovna Fazleeva, delivered a speech highlighting the steady growth of cultural exchange under the BRICS cooperation framework.
She urged BRICS countries to continue expanding their cultural dialogue, building networks of cooperation, and turning aspirations for collaboration into reality.
Tia Ju, Vice President of the Legislative Assembly of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, participated via video link, while Talita Bernardo, Head of the Office of the Second Vice President of the Legislative Assembly, shared the longstanding ties between Rio de Janeiro and China, dating back to the arrival of the first Chinese immigrants over 200 years ago.
Other prominent speakers included Russian figure skating legends Tamara Moskvina, Denis Petrov, and Chinese world champion Chen Lu, who shared stories of the enduring friendship between China and Russia through figure skating. Additionally, Professor B.R. Deepak from Jawaharlal Nehru University reflected on a century of friendly exchanges between China and India.
South African scholar Professor Paul Zilungisele Tembe used the song Glorious Years to highlight the shared commitment of BRICS nations to inclusivity, peace, and global development.
Celebrating Cultural Diversity through Exhibitions and Performances
The event featured the “BRICS Through the Lens” photo exhibition, which showcased moments from BRICS nations across diverse themes, including economy, history, and culture. Photographers from countries such as Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and Saudi Arabia contributed vibrant images depicting the cultural diversity and rapid changes in their nations.
In a stunning display of cross-cultural performances, the China Orient Orchestra performed a medley of BRICS countries’ famous songs using traditional Chinese instruments, while the Kazan Chamber Orchestra delivered performances infused with Tatar elements. Both performances were met with enthusiastic applause from the audience.
Renowned Chinese ceramic artist Zhan Changgan demonstrated the art of Jingdezhen ceramics, creating pieces themed around the national flowers of BRICS countries to symbolize unity and collaboration.
In a gesture of cultural exchange, Zhejiang University presented a Comprehensive Collection of Ancient Chinese Paintings to Kazan Federal University, drawing significant interest from attendees.
The event underscored the importance of cultural exchange in building bridges between nations and reaffirmed BRICS countries’ shared commitment to fostering global cooperation and understanding.
