As a bridge between hearts of people, culture should serve to promote mutual understanding and friendship between the Chinese and American peoples, Chinese Culture Minister Sun Jiazheng said in New York Wednesday evening.
Delivering a speech entitled "Chinese Culture towards the 21st Century: Strategy and Commitments" at the Museum of American Radio and Television, Sun talked about the development of China's culture in the new century and the principles China will follow for the common development of the Chinese culture and cultures of other nations.
Sun said China attaches great importance to the harmonious development of economy, politics, culture and society, as well as that of man and nature.
China's cultural policy for the new century will satisfy the increasing demands for culture of the Chinese and ensure their full cultural rights, he said.
Stressing the importance of preserving the distinctiveness of the Chinese national culture, Sun said his country will fully respect the diversities and differences between different countries and civilizations.
"Different cultures should learn from each other, joining hands in cooperation for mutual development," he added.
Sun said China will further improve Sino-US cultural exchanges and cooperation in the new century, so as to enhance mutual understanding and friendship between the two peoples.
Sun visited the United States Wednesday to attend the opening ceremony of China's cultural exhibition in New York.
(Xinhua)
