Chinese film week premieres in Iraqi Kurdistan

SULAIMANI, Iraqi Kurdistan region,— The very first Chinese Film Week kicked off on Tuesday in Sulaimani city in Iraqi Kurdistan region, attracting nearly 100 representatives to its opening ceremony.

In his speech, Liu Jun, the Chinese consul general in Erbil, underscored that the Chinese Film Week represents more than just an expansion of cultural connections between China and Iraq—it also enhances the strategic partnership between the two countries.

The opening ceremony also witnessed speeches from Governor Haval Abubakir and CEO Zagros L. Rashid of Kurdsat Broadcasting Corporation.

Haval Abubakir, the Governor of Sulaimani Province, highlighted the growing interest among the people of Kurdistan in learning about China’s economic development, history, and culture. He expressed hope that the Chinese Film Week would provide a valuable insight into China and foster people-to-people exchanges.

Organized jointly by the Chinese Consulate General in Erbil, China Movie Channel, and hosted by Kurdsat Broadcasting Corporation, the Chinese Film Week is part of the celebrations marking the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.

The event features screenings of five Chinese films, including “Beginning Of the Great Revival” and “The Bugle from Gutian.”

Sulaimani is widely regarded as Iraq’s most secular city, earning it the nickname “Paris of Iraq” due to its lively cultural scene and expansive tree-lined streets. Recognized as the cultural hub of Iraqi Kurdistan, it is often praised as the most vibrant province in the region.