The festival, themed “Traditions in Iranian and Chinese Families,” was held at the Ghadir Hall of the Institute for Intellectual Development of Children and Young Adults (IIDCYA). The exhibition will run until October 21, ISNA reported.
The festival received 693 submissions, from which 24 artworks were chosen by a panel of judges. The event was attended by dignitaries, including the China’s Ambassador to Iran Zong Peiwu, and the Managing Director of IIDCYA, Hamed Alamati.
In his opening remarks, Alamati emphasized the significance of cultural exchange between Iran and China, highlighting the two countries’ shared history and traditions.
He expressed hope that the festival would become an annual event, promoting friendship and understanding between Iranian and Chinese children.
The Chinese envoy congratulated the winners and praised the festival for fostering cultural exchange between the two nations.
He noted the similarities between Iranian and Chinese traditions, citing the presence of fish on both countries’ new year tables.
The festival’s theme was chosen to promote cross-cultural understanding and appreciation between Iranian and Chinese children. The artworks on display showcased the diversity and richness of both cultures, with vibrant colors and imaginative depictions of traditional family scenes.
The judges’ panel praised the high quality of the submissions, noting the creativity and talent of the young artists. The winners were awarded prizes, and the exhibition will remain open to the public for two weeks.
In a statement, the IIDCYA emphasized the importance of cultural exchange and people-to-people diplomacy, particularly among children and young adults. The organization expressed hope that the festival would become a regular event, promoting friendship and cooperation between Iran and China.
The festival was also attended by Iranian artist and researcher Zahra Dastan, who spoke about the significance of cultural exchange and the importance of understanding each other’s traditions.
The IIDCYA has been promoting cultural exchange between Iran and China through various initiatives, including a previous joint painting festival held in 2022. The organization aims to foster greater understanding and cooperation between the two nations through people-to-people diplomacy.
In related news, the IIDCYA announced plans to hold a future festival on the theme of the Silk Road, a ancient trade route that connected Iran and China. The organization also expressed hope to involve Palestinian children in future events, promoting cultural exchange and understanding among the three nations.