China and Africa boost cultural exchange commitments  

中国三年内将推动中非各100家文化机构长期合作

“中非合作论坛——文化部长论坛”18日在此间举行，通过了《中非文化部长论坛北京宣言》。中国文化部部长蔡武透露，中方将在新的三年北京行动计划框架下，推动中非各100家文化机构开展长期对口合作，协助非洲国家发展文化事业。

Beijing (CNS) -- A foundation for long-term Sino-African cooperation has been established, involving one hundred Chinese cultural institutes and one hundred of their African counterparts over the next three years, said Chinese Culture Minister Cai Wu on June 18.

The forum is part of a six-month program called African Cultures in Focus, which began early last month. At the Ministers Forum for Sino-African Culture, the Beijing Declaration was signed and issued by 51 ministers of culture from China and an array of African countries.

Cai said both Chinese and African leaders attach high importance to cultural exchanges, and hope these activities will benefit civil life in Africa. A better understanding of one-another's cultures will become the backbone of ties between China and these nations, he added.

High Chief Edem Duke, Nigeria's Minister for Tourism, Culture and National Orientation, said an understanding and critical examination of cultural relations are vital for Africa's development.