The Chief Executive Officer of Ghana-Russia Center for Commerce and Relations, John Aggrey has urged stakeholders in the cinema industry to collaborate and invest in local content to revitalise the sector.

He made this call at the 10th edition of St. Petersburg International United Cultures held in Russia last month themed, “Culture of the XXI century: sovereignty or globalism?”

In a presentation during a panel discussion on cinema dubbed, “Global Local Glocal”, Mr Aggrey explained that by embracing the concepts of local to global distribution, unification and cultural diversity, the cinema industry could tap into a wealth of untold stories and perspectives.

“This has the potential to create a more compelling cinema for audiences worldwide. The beauty of the cinema industry gives us the opportunity to expand our horizon into a multi-lingual and cultural asset,” he said.

Mr. Aggrey similarly offered a hand of collaboration saying, “Ghana is committed to working with all stakeholders to ensure that it is well positioned on the global landscape with a strong drive to promote and facilitate high-quality productions to appeal to both local and the global market.

“Join me in bridging the creative divide between Ghana and the world. I’m excited to extend an invitation for collaborative opportunities between our vibrant arts industry and international partners, with a special focus on Russia’s cinema sector,” he stated.

The session was graced by global industry experts including Svetlana Balanova, General Director of National Media Group JSC; Fyodor Bondarchuk, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Lenfilm Studio JSC; Vadim Vereshchagin, General Director of Central Partnership LLC; and Karina Mia Satlykova, General Director of Kunay Film Music Org. TLC (Türkiye).

United Cultures is a forum where people from different cultures and countries come together to discuss important social and cultural issues.

 It’s a platform for sharing ideas, finding solutions, and launching new projects that promote understanding and cooperation.

It is hosted by the Russian Government, Ministry of Culture, and the Government of St. Petersburg bringing together almost 1,700 participants, including cultural leaders, artists, business professionals, and policymakers on culture and arts.

Madam Ziona Ayorkor Biney, Head of Business Development and Innovations at Ghana-Russia Center for Commerce and Relations was part of Ghana’s delegation.

In an interview with Graphic Showbiz, Madam Ziona supported the call, which equally reflects the mission of National Film Authority’s annual Africa Cinema Summit which hopes to bridge the gap between local and global cinema players.

“The ongoing dialogue and push for greater diversity in cinema heralds a more inclusive and sustainable future, positively impacting society, particularly women across all facets of the creative arts and cinema industry.

 “Inclusive representation throughout the cinema value chain – from scripting to production and distribution – not only reaches wider markets but also resonates with underserved audiences craving authentic representation, willing to pay for value,” she said.