Chinese state councilor Liu Yandong met a Russian delegation led by Minister of Culture Alexander Avdeyev on Thursday, calling for improved Sino-Russian cultural exchanges.

Liu said China-Russia relations were in their "best period" of development. She said cultural exchanges were of great significance in consolidating ties.

Next year marks the 60th anniversary of Sino-Russia diplomatic relations. China is to launch a Chinese cultural festival in Russia, while another cultural activity, "the Year of the Russian language", would be launched in China, said Liu.

Avdeyev said Russia highly values its cultural links with China, adding the country would provide all necessary support for a successful Chinese cultural festival in Russia.

(Xinhua News Agency December 19, 2008)