Culture ministers from China and 45 African countries have converged in Beijing, discussing cultural exchanges between the two cradles of ancient civilizations.

The conference is built under the framework of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation. Leaders are aiming to implement the action plan reached at the group's 4th ministerial meeting in Egypt 2009.

China's Culture Minister Cai Wu said, "Cultural cooperation between Africa and China has strong support from the highest level leaders on both sides. A cultural exchange platform has been formed. It's highlighted by the branded project 'African and Chinese Culture in Focus' which has held five sessions. More in-depth communication is anticipated."

A series of events promoting African culture in China began in May. Hundreds of artists, performers, and experts will present the best of their distinctive art and culture to Chinese viewers through the end of the year. Performances, exhibitions and symposiums will be held through 2012 in Beijing, Tianjin and a few other major cities around China. This year's African Cultures in Focus is the largest cultural exchange project between Africa and China to date.

(CNTV.cn June 19, 2012)