ABU DHABI — The Chinese envoy to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on May 21 urged China and the UAE to further enhance their cultural exchanges, and promote mutual understanding between the two peoples.

Chang Hua, China’s ambassador to the UAE, made the remarks while addressing the opening ceremony of a photo show in Abu Ahabi titled “the UAE in the Eyes of Chinese.”

The friendship between the two countries enjoys a long history, and the ancient maritime silk road used to closely connect the two, he told those who also attended the opening.

As the new century begins, China and the UAE have forged a strategic partnership, and their cooperation has been strong, prosperous and promising, said the Chinese envoy, adding that they have also seen an ever deepening cultural exchanges between the two countries.

He also hailed the show, saying it is designed to reveal a different UAE through the lens of Chinese living and working in the Gulf country.

Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Hahayan, UAE’s minister of culture, youth and community development, said the photos, taken by the Chinese in his country, are proving just how intact a friendship the two countries share.

He also believed that the relations between the two sides will continue to grow on the basis of mutual respect and mutual benefit.

The show, which will run through May 23, is going to Beijing, China, in August at an international book exhibition.