China and Arab Nations Forge Audiovisual Ties at Chongqing Forum

The 7th China-Arab States Broadcasting and Television Cooperation Forum concluded on November 5, 2025, in Chongqing, China. This significant event gathered approximately 300 delegates from various sectors, including broadcasting regulatory bodies, audio-visual media organizations, diplomatic missions, and academic institutions from China and 16 Arab nations. The forum aimed to foster mutual learning between Chinese and Arab civilizations through shared audiovisual innovation.

Under the theme “Mutual Learning Between Chinese and Arab Civilizations, Shared Success in Audiovisual Innovation,” participants engaged in discussions focused on two critical areas: content development and technological advancements. Key topics included “China-Arab Audio-Visual Content Cooperation in the Digital Media Era” and “Technology Empowering High-Quality Development of the Audio-Visual Industry.” The forum facilitated dialogues on content collaboration, the application of technology, and the creation of new business models, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to enhancing cooperation.

A pivotal outcome of the forum was the unanimous adoption of the “Joint Declaration of the 7th China-Arab States Broadcasting and Television Cooperation Forum.” This document outlines strategies for strengthening policy coordination, content sharing, technological exchange, and personnel interactions between China and Arab states in the broadcasting and audio-visual sectors. The declaration seeks to establish a new paradigm for civilizational dialogue in contemporary times.

The forum highlighted over 50 cooperative achievements in the China-Arab audio-visual realm, including the announcement of winners for the 4th China-Arab States Short Video Competition. Supporting events included a thematic concert and a media collection tour, with the centerpiece being the China-Arab Audio-Visual Content and Technology Exchange Exhibition. These activities underscored the commitment to deepening collaboration in the audiovisual field.

In alignment with the forum’s objectives and in preparation for the upcoming 2026 China-Arab States Summit, the “Audio-Visual Silk Road: China-Arab Stories” campaign will run from September 2025 to June 2026. This initiative will feature a mutual broadcast of select high-quality audio-visual programs, showcasing standout Arab productions such as Om El Donya, Chinese works like Flourished Peony, and co-produced titles such as When the Yangtze Meets the Nile. These selections will be available on major media platforms in both China and Arab nations, enriching the viewing experience and promoting narratives of friendship and cooperation between the regions.

The 7th China-Arab States Broadcasting and Television Cooperation Forum was co-organized by the National Radio and Television Administration of China, the Chongqing Municipal People’s Government, the Secretariat of the League of Arab States, and the Arab States Broadcasting Union. This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to fostering a vibrant and innovative audiovisual landscape that bridges cultural divides.