Russian ballet, opera and classical symphony music telecast live on CCTV kicked off the Year of Russia in China in grand style last night.

Both China and Russia have a long history and glorious civilizations; and cultural events like the Year of Russia will help "enhance mutual understanding and traditional friendship between the two countries, President Hu Jintao said.

Hu and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin attended the opening ceremony at the Great Hall of the People.

Putin praised the event for its great significance in strengthening bilateral relations.

The year-long festival, which features more than 200 cultural, economic and educational events, was agreed upon by the two countries in 2004.

The Year of China will be held next year in Russia.

Earlier yesterday, Putin inaugurated an information centre in Beijing to support Russian events, visited a photography exhibition and launched a Chinese-language Internet portal.

(China Daily 03/22/2006 page1)