Ghanaians abroad have been urged to vigorously promote the beauty and elegance of their traditional wears to become the preferred brands internationally.

Mr. Mahama Ayariga, Minister of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation,who is currently in the USA for a programme on Sustainable Development made the call at a collaborative cultural event between Ghana and China at the United Nations Headquarters, New York on Monday (July 20, 2015).

The event had on exhibition some Ghanaian clothes,bags, shoes and pictures. Also showcased were traditional wears and northern smock by Hajia Azara Mahama and a host of Ghanaian artists.

Another side attraction was the captivating sounds by some traditional drummers led by Emmanuel Kofie of the Ghana Mission, backed by Jojo Nyaku and John Oko Nyaku who thrilled the audience with their melodious display. To cap the night were some Chinese dancers.

It was to promote the cross-cultural exchange for peace and development between the two countries as well as to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the United Nations.

The Minister said back home in Ghana "we are also working hard to make our cuisine popular with the youth and we believe that you have the capacity to replicate this in the United States of America, the same way our friends, the Chinese, have made their cuisine internationally accepted".

Commenting on the artworks exhibited, Mr. Ayariga said it did not only mirror the two countries, but portrayed their projects, interests, concerns and to some extent, challenge societal perceptions.

Underlining the significance of the arts and culture to Ghanaians, he pointed out that right from the cradle to the grave, it formed an "intrinsic part of their everyday life", saying that "our arts and culture define who we are.They reflect our past, present and future as well as our beliefs, traditions and values. Our culture echoes our true identity and national persona. Our culture also gives a clear indication of our natural path for sustainable development".

On Ghana-China friendship, the Minister noted that it had been nourished and sustained since the signing of the Friendship Treaty between the two countries 54 years ago.

In his remarks, Mr. Andy Lin, the brain behind the event and president of the United Nations Commutech Group, praised the exhibitors for their wonderful and rich artistic display.

He said the beauty of the arts was a reflection of the harmony that one desires from peaceful overtures.

Earlier, Philbert Abaka Johnson, Chargé d'Affaires of the Permanent Mission of Ghana said the event under the theme "From the Gold Coast to the Far East" portrays the dynamism of cultural diplomacy as an effective tool to harness peace and development dividends in a culturally diverse world.

The exhibition was opened on July 14. On show were colourful paintings by Prof. Sui Fai Wing, a Chinese expert in painting blossoms, blossoms, landscapes and figures.