International: A special cultural exchange and fashion exhibition was held on August 17 at the BGMEA Conference Center in Dhaka, with the aim of strengthening mutual cooperation between China and Bangladesh in fashion, textiles, culture and the creative industries. The event showcased various aspects of the two countries’ clothing, designs, music, traditions and contemporary fashion.

One of the major attractions of the event was the integrated presentation of Chinese and Bangladeshi clothing designs and cultural elements. The programme featured design concepts developed by young Bangladeshi fashion students, the influence of Bangladeshi culture on Chinese designs, and cultural performances combining the music and traditions of the two countries. Organizers said such initiatives would play an important role in creating new bridges between the creative industries of China and Bangladesh.

Nusrat Nipa, Adviser and Professor of the Department of Fashion at Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, said China and Bangladesh both have strong positions in the garment manufacturing sector. This provides significant opportunities to further strengthen cooperation between the two countries in fashion and apparel.

She expressed hope that China and Bangladesh would jointly organize more fashion shows, cultural programmes and creative projects in the future.

Bai Mei, President of Elegant Women’s College, said she was delighted to have the opportunity to visit Bangladesh and learn about its local culture and people. She emphasized the importance of developing deeper connections between the lifestyles and cultures of contemporary Chinese and Bangladeshi women.

She said the Zhejiang Fashion Research Center has taken initiatives to introduce contemporary Chinese fashion and culture to people in different parts of the world. She also expressed hope for deeper cooperation and cultural exchanges with Bangladesh in the future.

Su Qiujie, Vice Dean and Professor at Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, said it is extremely important for a designer to understand not only the culture of their own country but also the cultures of other countries. At the same time, designers need to acquire technical expertise in fabrics, textiles, patterns and design.

She further noted that designers should have a clear understanding of the markets and consumer demands of the countries concerned. Designs should be aesthetically appealing while also being aligned with market requirements. This approach can contribute to the advancement of both the fashion business and the industry as a whole.

Professor Cheng Chuxin of the China Academy of Art said that alongside economic and trade relations, exchanges in culture, art and creativity among people from different countries are also extremely important. Communication and the sharing of experiences can generate new ideas while creating opportunities for creativity and innovation.

He expressed hope that cooperation and cultural exchanges between Bangladesh and China would become deeper in various fields in the future.

After visiting the exhibition, Li Shaofeng, Cultural Counsellor of the Chinese Embassy in Dhaka, said mutual exchanges between Bangladesh and China in fashion, culture, innovation and textiles should be further expanded. Describing it as his first visit to BGMEA, he praised the fashion show and expressed the hope that more events of this kind would be organized.

He said opportunities for Bangladeshi students and academics to visit China would help deepen mutual understanding between the two countries in culture, fashion and textiles. He also emphasized the importance of maintaining regular communication and sharing experiences among students, teachers and professionals from relevant industries.

Representatives from various educational institutions, as well as the fashion and textile sectors of China and Bangladesh, attended the event. Discussions were held on various prospects for future cooperation between the two countries.

Organizers expressed the expectation that the cultural exchange programme would further expand China-Bangladesh cooperation in fashion, textiles and culture. In particular, regular exchanges among young designers, students, researchers and industry experts are expected to play an important role in enhancing the international recognition of the fashion and cultural identities of both countries.

Source: Nahar-Jennifer, China Media Group.