Cultural exchange plays important role in China-Africa relationship

The China-Africa Cooperation Beijing Summit established a constructive relationship between China and African countries. Under the concept of mutual trust in politics, economic win-win cooperation and cultural understanding, cultural exchange is as important as cooperation in the political and economic fields. "China-Africa Cooperation Forum---Beijing Plan" draws the whole picture of cooperation in the future. Three areas including project exchanges at the government level, local cultural and art performances and African visiting scholar programs are fundamental to this cooperation.

In the past three years, these exchanges were welcomed by both sides. According to the National Cultural Bureau, cultural bonds between China and Africa have been strengthened. Since 2007, Chinese delegations have visited ten African countries five times, while African delegations from 15 countries have enjoyed touring China. China signed new bilateral agreements with 16 African countries, while the previous agreements with 20 countries are still in effect.

Cultural exchanges between artists are more attracting. 734 artists from 20 provinces are invited to attend 27 festivals and celebrations in African countries. In return, 370 artists from 21 African countries performed at the International Art Show in China. 9 Famous photographers, organized by Chinese Photographic Association held 16 international exhibitions after their trip to Africa. It is three years since the African Visiting Scholars Program was introduced. Officials, experts and artists from 61 African countries are invited by Chinese government to participate in "Idea Exchanging on Managing State Affairs", "Cultural Policy Discussion", "Creative Thinking in Painting" and "Field Research Project".

Meanwhile, China and African countries will work together to focus on cultural influence. "2008 African Culture Focus" was held successfully in Shenzhen by National Cultural Bureau, National Radio Television Film Bureau and Press & Publication Administration. In the following year, "2009 Chinese Culture Focus" reached over 20 African countries, showing unique Chinese tradition and culture in all aspects.

In addition, the exchanges in academic community, college students and media related areas have been deepened. Chinese government will provide fellowships to 4,000 African students per year in the next 3 years, while right now, 2,000 African students get fellowships each year to come to China. In 2007 alone, there were 2,700 African students pursuing their higher education in areas like agriculture, medicine, linguistics, education, economy and management. 57.3% of them are working on their master degrees and PhDs.

Cooperation and exchanges in the media related field has been expanded. China has already signed a cooperation letter with two African countries, Kenya and South Africa. Since 2004, China has held 6 Seminars for African government officials. It is very obvious that media coverage is a direct and important way of understanding each other and promoting cooperation between both sides.

By People's Daily Online