Local government officials and renowned filmmakers celebrate the opening of the 2024 Belt and Road Film Week in Shanghai on June 15. [Photo/WeChat ID: pdnews]

The 26th Shanghai International Film Festival's Belt and Road Film Week officially launched at the Shendi Cultural Center in the Shanghai International Tourist Resort on June 15.

This event, highlighting cultural exchange and industry collaboration, attracted over 40 international filmmakers and representatives of more than 20 film institutions from 18 countries and regions.

A selection of 18 films were chosen for public screening, with six outstanding films set to tour six cinemas in the Yangtze River Delta region, aiming to draw more audience attention to the latest cinematic works from countries involved in the Belt and Road Initiative.

This year marks the sixth anniversary of the Belt and Road Film Week. Over the past six years, the event has provided numerous opportunities for cooperation among filmmakers and institutions from participating countries. Of late, young Chinese filmmakers have been using this platform to bring Chinese stories to other international film festivals, serving as a window for the world to understand China better.

The Belt and Road Film Week is committed to promoting diverse cinema, serving as an essential platform for cultural appreciation and people-to-people connections. Over the past six years, the film week has showcased 115 films recommended by members of the Belt and Road Film Festival Alliance.

The event has also boosted the development of film and cultural enterprises in the Shanghai International Tourist Resort. Since last year, over 50 film and cultural enterprises have either established a presence in the resort or expressed intentions to collaborate.

The opening ceremony of the Belt and Road Film Week saw agreements signed for new projects and collaborations. These agreements cover various sectors, including film and entertainment, performing arts, tourism, commerce, exhibitions, and sports. These projects are set to further promote the integration of cultural and tourism industries in the resort.

Simultaneously, during the film week, Shanghai's Bicester Village is hosting a "Latin American Festival", which will feature authentic cuisine, performances, and crafts. This festival was organized to allow residents and visitors to gain a better understanding of Latin American culture.