China, UK creative cultural cooperation flourishing

China and the UK should enhance creative cultural exchanges and improve mutual understanding between the two countries and peoples through cultural activities and products.

Our correspondent Liang Tao has more.

While addressing a global creative culture forum in Edinburgh, which is part of the Fifth annual UK-China High-Level People to People Dialogue, Chinese vice Premier Liu Yandong pointed out the two countries have enjoyed cultural exchanges and cooperation in a large variety of fields in recent years.

"Over the past five years, China and the UK have conducted practical cooperation in such fields as education, science and technology, culture, health, media, sports, tourism, youth and regional issues to enhance understanding and help promote the friendly relations between the two countries. The healthy and stable development has laid solid foundation for society and public opinions."

Chinese vice Premier Liu Yandong. [File Photo: IC]

As for the current stage of cooperation in the cultural sector, Carma Elliot, British Council China Minister, placed special emphasis on it.

"In the creative industry, there has never been a better time for UK-Chinese cooperation and collaboration. The thriving sectors we saw in all art forms, we see now, are playing a critical role as our two countries work together to boost cultural connection to boost understanding and shared cultural, trade and exports, which are so important to prosperity and future of young generations in both of our countries."

British Council China Minister. [File Photo：Britishcouncil.cn]

China is highlighting innovation in its overall national development strategy. The UK has accumulated much experience in creative industries. It is hoped that both countries can enhance communication and mutual learning in this field and thus achieve common development.

Fiona Hyslop, Scottish Cabinet Secretary for Culture, Tourism and External Affairs, elaborates on the innovation cooperation between China and Scotland.

"Both China and Scotland have recognized that innovation is the key to build a strong and sustainable economy with opportunities for citizens to flourish. And I'm continuing to identify in areas from scope for mutual learning. "

Creative cultural cooperation is an epitome of the fast development of the Sino-UK people-to-people exchange which Liu's ongoing four-day visit is aimed to advance.

Her trip, which started Monday and will also take her to London and Oxford, coincided with the 45th anniversary of the establishment of China-UK ambassador-level relations.

Early on Tuesday, Liu Yandong was conferred the Honorary Doctorate Degree by the University of Edinburgh for her remarkable contributions as a global leader to health, education and sports and nurturing future generations of young people.

For CRI, I'm Liang Tao in Edinburgh.