A Milestone in Sino–European Cultural Collaboration
The Director of the Shanghai Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism, Department of Intangible Cultural Heritage, Mr. Patrick Chen, held an official meeting with composer and director Marios Joannou Elia, accompanied by Li Yang, member of Mr. Chen’s cabinet, as well as Zhao Jinyu, China’s Cultural Ambassador for Kunqu Opera, and Sissi Wu, project coordinator.
The strategic meeting focused on the artistic, cultural, and institutional dimensions of the large-scale initiative «Sound of Shanghai», reaffirming the shared commitment to deepening cultural collaboration and presenting Shanghai’s unique heritage through innovative forms of musical and audiovisual expression.
During the discussions, Mr. Chen offered a central reflection on the project’s meaning and its broader cultural impact:
«Sound of Shanghai is more than a project —
it is a cultural dialogue that transforms our city’s rhythm, spirit,
and heritage into living art.»
Marios Joannou Elia expressed his sincere gratitude to the Shanghai Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism for their essential partnership, vision, and support. He was also deeply honored to receive distinguished gifts representing China’s rich cultural heritage, offered as a gesture of trust and mutual respect.
«I am truly grateful for the trust, support, and partnership shown to me on this meaningful journey,» Elia stated. «Today’s strategic dialogue strengthens the foundations of the «Sound of Shanghai» project and highlights the value of cultural exchange between China and the world.»
The meeting concluded with a unified commitment to advancing the next phases of the project, including presentations, educational initiatives, and international promotional activities that will further enhance Shanghai’s role on the global cultural stage.
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