Russian People Look Forward to "Year of China"

A press conference for "The Year of China" in Russia was held on March, 23 in Moscow [cnsphoto]

Almost 200 events will be held in the fields of politics, trade and economy, culture, science and technology, military affairs and communications for "The Year of China" In Russia.

With a number of regional exchanges also on the boards, many Russians believe the Year of China will be just as fruitful as last year's reciprocal event, The Year of Russia in China.

CRI's Yao Yongmei has the story:

Reporter: The Year of China in Russia is the year both countries will support and participate in a series of activities based around bilateral exchange.

The Minister of Administration of Publishing and Mass Media of Russian Federation, Mihail Seslavensky, spoke in Moscow at the opening ceremony for the China News Centre, the organization that will promote the various activities of The Year of China in Russia.

He said it's estimated hundreds of thousands people will participate in the events and many will hear more about China through the activity.

"We want to tell the people of both countries that it’s important to strengthen mutual understanding, and to carry out the traditional friendship and mutual trust between our two peoples."

Zuo Zhengguan is the head of the Russia Philharmonic Orchestra. He and the members of the orchestra have performed in China many times.

Being of Chinese origin and living in Russia for many years, Zuo Zhengguan said the people of Russia are hoping to see Chinese artists perform in their cities this year.

"I think this year is very significant. Chinese people know a lot about Russian art, as Russian artists travel quite often to China. So this year offers a great opportunity for local Russian people to see Chinese performances and get to know Chinese culture."

Vladimir Feliurin is a member of the St. Petersburg Russia-China friendship association.

"I place great hopes on the 'Year of China' in Russia. We are expecting a lot of important events in the fields of culture and politics throughout the year. I think this year demonstrates again to the world the good relations between the two giants—China and Russia."

Vadim Yeleshev is an English teacher at Omsk University. He's a loyal China Radio International listener and won the first prize in a competition ran by CRI last year.

"Like other Russian people, I am expecting the 'Year of China' to further consolidate the friendship that already exists between both countries. Through this event, we can also learn more about China and its unique culture."

（Source: Yao Yongmei, CRI news)