The Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts, China Central Radio and Television and the Chinese embassy in Phnom Penh have joined forces to launch the ‘7th China-Cambodia Mobile Film Tour,’ fostering cultural, artistic and cinematic connections between the nations.

The mobile film festival commenced last week in Siem Reap, under the auspices of Siem Reap deputy governor You Sophea, Hu Jinjun, deputy director general of China Central Radio and Television, Liu Zhijie, director of the Chinese Consulate in Siem Reap and representatives from relevant departments, students and the Union of Youth Federations of Cambodia (UYFC), totalling over 100 attendees.

The Siem Reap provincial administration underscored on November 18 that the event seeks to enhance cultural exchange between the countries, enabling Cambodians to gain insights into China's culture, traditions, history and current affairs. Additionally, it commemorates the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations and celebrates a year dedicated to Cambodia-China friendship.

Sophea stated that the occasion will enhance Cambodians' understanding of China and foster stronger mutual relations.

She added that art films, identified as an effective cultural link, play a crucial role in shaping people's minds and thoughts.

"Throughout history, Cambodia and China have shared a strong friendship, evident in carvings at Bayon and documented in sources like Zhou Daguan," she said.

She noted the enduring mutual assistance in economic, social, and cultural domains between the two nations.

Hu highlighted that the event enriches local lives and spotlights the historical, cultural, human and modern aspects of China-Cambodia ties. He said that the occasion also serves as a focal point for cultural exchange, fostering positive connectivity between the two countries.

Hu also stated his confidence in the further expansion of media cooperation between the two countries.

In October, during the Third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation in Beijing, Prime Minister Hun Manet and Chinese President Xi Jinping outlined plans for increased people-to-people exchanges between Cambodia and China in 2024, aiming to promote tourism and connectivity.

"In this collaborative endeavour, we can enhance media cooperation between the two nations, contributing to the high-quality development of media and providing new means to further enhance the relationship between the two countries," stated the deputy director-general of China Central Radio and Television.

​ The "China-Cambodia Mobile Film Tour" has been conducted since 2016, with the screening team aiming to visit every village, district, town and province in Cambodia. The films have been screened over 100 times, reaching more than 100,000 viewers for free.

The event aims to foster cooperation, cultural exchanges and provide Cambodians with the opportunity to enjoy Chinese films.