Vice-Premier Liu Yandong called for stronger collaboration between China and Arab countries in all fields on Sept 10.

She made the call in a meeting with culture ministers from Arab countries, in Beijing for the opening of China-Arab Friendship Year and the Third Arabic Arts Festival.

Reviewing the time-honored exchanges between the Chinese and the Arabian people, Liu underscored the great importance China has placed on developing friendship and cooperation with Arab countries.

Vice-Premier Liu Yandong (rear R) meets with culture ministers from Arabian countries and attends the opening of the China-Arab Friendship Year and the third Arabic Arts Festival in Beijing, capital of China, Sept 10, 2014. [Photo/Xinhua]

She urged both sides to take the opportunities offered by the Silk Road economic belt and the 21st century maritime Silk Road development proposals, expand exchanges and cooperation in all fields and inject new vitality into China-Arab strategic cooperation.

After the meeting, Liu watched the 90-minute performance of dance, song and costume in Tsinghua University, involving artists from China and Arab countries.

The gala was part of the weeklong Third Arabic Arts Festival in Beijing and Yinchuan, capital of Ningxia Hui autonomous region. The festival included culture seminars, performances by arts groups and Arabian art exhibitions.