China and Turkey will hold a series of cultural events in Ankara and Istanbul in October and November to promote Turkish people's understanding of contemporary China and enhance cultural communication between the two countries.

The program, named "Experience China in Turkey," includes nine major events, such as the Chinese-Turkish political and economic forums, Chinese folk dance shows, Chinese movie and television weeks and exchanges between journalists and writers, according to Cultural Counsellor Yu Jian of the Chinese Embassy in Ankara.

Yu told a press briefing on Tuesday that the events will not only introduce China's history, culture and modern development to Turkish people but will also contribute to better bilateral ties.

Chinese Ambassador to Turkey Gong Xiaosheng said the events are a significant opportunity for Turkish people to know China in a comprehensive, profound and objective way.

Most Turkish and Chinese people still do not know each other very well, while they derive their understanding from history textbooks or the Western media and are hence influenced by many negative views, Gong told reporters at the briefing.

"'Experience China' is just a beginning. We should continue with other similar activities after this to work for better communication and friendship between our people," he said.

The Year of China in Turkey will be held in 2012 and the Year of Turkey in China will be held in 2013, said Yu.

"Experience China in Turkey" events are sponsored by the State Council Information Office of China and jointly held by China's Cultural Ministry, Turkey's Foreign Ministry and Ministry of Cultural and Tourism.

(Xinhua News Agency September 29, 2010)