A televised contest on knowledge about Russia was held by China Central Television (CCTV) Thursday night to usher in a series of activities to mark the "Year of Friendship Between Chinese and Russian Youth."  

The TV contest was entitled "Roses Are Blossoming," after a well-known Russian folk song widely sung in China during the 1950s. It is part of the activities to mark the friendship-promotion program set by Chinese and Russian leaders.

During the 60-minute televised contest, contestants answered various questions on Russia, including quotes from Tolstoy and Pushkin and songs and sports stars.

Zhang Liang, a 23-year-old graduate from Jilin University, beat all others to win a free tour of Russia in May. He will join an official delegation of Chinese youth.

"I'm looking forward to making the Russia trip and hope that I can feel its beautiful scenery and culture personally," he told Xinhua.

Igor Rogachev, the Russian ambassador to China, announced in Chinese that the official website of the Russian Embassy and the website of the People's Daily, www.people.com.cn, also plan to hold similar contests.

In addition, the friendship year activities also include an online survey, an exhibition of works of young artists from China and Russia and summer camps.

Hu Wei, the executive chairman of the All-China Youth Federation, said the contest could help promote understanding between Chinese and Russian youth. "What's more important is that the friendship between China and Russia should be passed down from generation to generation," he said.

(Xinhua News Agency April 24, 2004)