"The Year of Italy in China", a major cultural exchange program jointly organized by China and Italy, opened in Beijing on Thursday with a concert featuring the works of Italian opera's great composers.

"In the unforgettable melody that best represents the cultural identity of Italy, the Chinese people will have a better understanding of Italy and its people," said Chinese Cultural Minister Sun Jiazheng at a joint press conference before the concert.

Sun said the proposal of the Year of Italy in China was jointly raised and approved by the two sides during Italian President Ciampi's visit to China in 2004.

This major cultural event will feature a wide range of activities include film festivals, dance performances, exhibitions, forums on environmental protection, and education and research, and joint science and technology programs.

"The cultural event is designed to open a window for the Chinese people into the lives and thoughts of Italian people, thereby promoting bilateral ties and mutual understanding," Italian Minister of Cultural Heritage and Activities, Rocco Buttiglione, said.

He said the cultural event will be celebrated in many Chinese cities including Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Tianjin, Hong Kong, Shenyang, Harbin, Ningbo, and Suzhou.

From January 14 to 23, a total of 86 paintings, sculptures and tapestries of Italian Renaissance masters including Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael and Titian, will be on display at the Italian Renaissance Art Exhibition at the Millennium World Art Museum in Beijing.

Italy is the second European country, after France, to hold such a cultural year in China.

Sun added that China will simultaneously hold a series of events in Italy. This year's Venice Carnival, for example, will include a major focus on China.

(Xinhua News Agency January 20, 2006)