China-France language and cultural exchange celebrated

PARIS, Jan. 25 (Xinhua) -- China and France should continue to promote language and cultural exchange to provide the base for deepening ties, according to a visiting Chinese official here.

Vice Minister of Education Hao Ping told the closing ceremony of "Chinese Language Year" on Thursday that the 19-month-long program had played an important role in strengthening the ties between China and France. He hoped efforts would be maintained and he encouraged more student exchanges in the future.

Chinese Ambassador to France Kong Quan told the same event that China attaches great importance to its relationship with France and is willing to work with France to strengthen bilateral relations, as well as to continue exploring new opportunities for further cooperation.

French Minister for Francophonie nations Yamina Benguigui joined Hao and Kong in presenting awards to those who had achieved excellent performances in Chinese language and culture learning.

The cross language year program, which included "Chinese Language Year" in France followed by "French Language Year" in China, was initiated by Chinese President Hu Jintao and former French President Nicolas Sarkozy in November 2010.