Cultural Diplomacy

I first realized the extent to which the word “kawaii” had spread across the world untranslated and come to be regarded as a verbal symbol of Japan when I served as a producer for the Kawaii Ambassadors (Cute ambassadors) program in fiscal 2009. Wherever we went, Kawaii Ambassadors were fervently welcomed. In Recife, Brazil, about 20,000 people turned out at an open-air venue to see them.

"The art of photography can build a bridge between cultures and carry our collaboration forward. 'Concept: Turkey' is a very important event in terms of the meeting of two different cultures," Türkoğlu said. He also invited everyone who is interested in photography to become a part of the project in order to introduce the Turkish way of life as well as culture to the Americans.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday termed terrorism and climate change as the biggest problems faced by the world saying the solutions to these can be found in Mahatma Gandhi's life and ideals. [...] Modi also expressed hope that people of Turkmenistan will learn about the ideals and life of Mahatma Gandhi. 

China has been making major efforts to increase its ability to influence other countries without force or coercion. [...] China has emphasized its cultural and economic strengths, but it has paid less attention to the political aspects that can undermine its efforts.

In June, the Chinese Ministry of Culture blacklisted 38 Japanese anime and manga from distribution in China. [...] However, in the hearts and minds of Chinese fans of Japanese anime, the Great Firewall of China is acting a little too late. 

The U.S. Department of State praised the Carnegie tour as an important "cultural pillar"  for the two countries. Dignitaries from China and the United States attending the banquet included former U.S. Secretary of State, Henry Kissinger, Carnegie Hall Executive and Artistic Director, Clive Gillinson and renowned composer, Tan Dun.

This article explores the public diplomacy and participant benefits afforded by Asialink, an Australian cultural diplomacy program aimed at strengthening international relations with Asia. 

Pages