Such initiatives are a hallmark of British cultural diplomacy, said Edwards. He also added that the consulate is in the midst of seeking partnerships on several creative projects. One such partnership project coming later in the year to Shanghai is a traditional Chinese Kunqu opera version of “Macbeth.”

Every Sunday afternoon, rain or shine, a group of people gathers at a park in Tokyo’s bustling Ikebukuro district, where Japanese people studying Chinese and Chinese living in Japan can engage in lively conversation.

"Venezuela has a lot to offer in terms of art and culture. We have already opened a cultural centre in New Delhi. ICMEI is going to be the extension of our efforts. All are invited to be a part of these two centres at Noida and Delhi. We have grown much bigger in one day," said the Ambassador, appreciating the large network of 162 countries of ICMEI.

Marko Marcinko traveled the world many times over during his long career as an in-demand jazz drummer. Cuba, however, had long been out of reach for the well-known Scranton musician, just as it had been for most Americans for more than a half century. But the United States’ recent reestablishment of formal relations with the Communist Caribbean country led to new and exciting travel opportunities for Americans, musicians among them.

Art fans in Ho Chi Minh City should be pleased as four art exhibitions are taking place there, featuring artistic pieces of vivid hues and shades that convey different messages. Of these, 17 artists are showcasing 80 artworks in an art exhibition lasting between Saturday and June 12 at the Ho Chi Minh City Museum of Fine Arts in District 1.

Arnaud, who also long has been involved with the Alliance Francaise de Charleston, said putting this mural at the airport links French history and culture with that of Charleston. “It’s a good thing happening for history, tourism and diplomacy,” she said.

As part of Cultural Diplomacy, the Pakistan Embassy in Ankara organized the Chughtai Art Awards competition in the Konya province. The thematic focus of the competition was “Mughal/Turkish Art & Architecture of Pakistan.” The event was organized in collaboration with the Konya branch of Turkey’s Ministry of National Education.

British Columbia Premier Christy Clark is talking up the province’s technology sector while on a business trip in Japan. According to the Government of British Columbia, they are working to form new partnerships with Japanese investors and technology companies.