?"2007 Experience China in Mexico", a festival on Chinese culture was launched on Wednesday in celebration of the 35th anniversary of Mexico-China diplomatic ties.

Chinese artists, including disabled performers, Kung Fu masters and renowned singers and dancers, presented traditional dance, music, shadow puppet theatre, contemporary dance and a show of modern ceramics, bringing a fantastic show to the City Theater of Mexico City. There will also be four exhibitions showing traditional Chinese cultural treasures as well as development and achievement in today's China.

"Experience China has been held in 18 countries since 1999. It's held in Mexico this year because of the similarity between the two countries, the long histories and civilizations", said Li Bing, vice director of China's State Department News Office, "China seeks to strengthen friendship and cooperation with Mexico, and that is why cultural exchanges are important."

China-Mexico relations, which have witnessed sound development since the two countries established diplomatic ties 35 years ago, ushered in a new stage of all-round development in 2003 when the two countries established a strategic partnership. China's participation in the festival shows the importance the Chinese government attaches to the festival, and the excellent relationship the two nations are in.

"Thanks to these cultural events, Mexicans will have the opportunity to get to know China's daily life and traditions," Elena Cepeda de Leon, Mexico City's culture secretary, told a press conference.

"These groups represent the best of Chinese arts," said Yan Zhonghua, director general of China's International Communication Center.

The program, which runs to Aug. 18, is also a part of an eight-year program that boosts China-Mexico cultural exchanges.

During the festival, China donated 200 books on China's history, economy and culture to Mexico City's city library.

Mexico has become one of China's most important trading partners and investment destinations in Latin America. Political mutual trust between the two countries has been strengthened along with an expansion of exchanges and cooperation in various fields, the two countries are supporting each other and cooperating closely in international and regional affairs.

Similar events on Chinese culture have been staged across 21 nations and have promoted better understanding of China across the world.

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(Chinaculture.org August 2, 2007)
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