China is the Guest of Honor at this year's Frankfurt Book Fair. More than 600 cultural events have been held to present the literature and art of modern China.

At the Frankfurt Book Fair, 10 Chinese novelists, including Mo Yan, Tie Ning and Yu Hua engaged in a discussion with German novelists on literary development and exchanges between the two countries. In particular, Tie Ning, Chairwoman of the China Writers' Association, and sinologist Ulrich Kautz, have probed the significance of translation towards spreading literary works. Chinese writers Liu Zhenyun, Su Tong, Yu Hua, and Ah Lai have shared their own knowledge of German literature. The discussions are accompanied with the reading of novels and folk music.

Writers from both countries have acknowledged moments when their cultures have clashed. But both parties are willing to introduce their literature to the world and communicate with people from different cultural backgrounds.

Michael Kahn-ackermann, a sinologist, said, "I myself know China through literature. The best way for people to learn something they don't know, don't see or feel directly, is through literature."

Tie Ning, Chairwoman of China Writers Association, said, "The dialogue between different cultures helps to eliminate prejudice and misunderstandings. The result is perceptible, here at the Chinese Literature Night."

The Chinese Literature Night is among a series of activities showcasing China's rich, artistic, cultural heritage. The activity hopes to spur communication and cooperation between China's publishing industry and international publishers.

Over 160 Chinese writers have participated in various literary activities throughout Germany.