Books and paintings lovers in New Zealand indulged themselves in the over 2,000 books from China and more than 200 paintings drawn by Chinese and New Zealand children at the China-theme book exhibition. 

Xiao Yewen, acting Chinese consul-general in Auckland, said "China and New Zealand enjoy good momentum in literary exchanges and cooperation. Both national libraries established efficient cooperative mechanism in organizing exhibitions, digital library cooperation, ancient books protection and resource sharing. I believe the  book exhibition that will further promote understanding and friendship between the Chinese people and Kiwis."  

Ye Su, minister-counsellor of the Chinese Embassy in New Zealand, said the young talents used their painting brushes to describe the world in their eyes, and the vision for a more beautiful, friendly and sustainable future of the global village. Ye believed the wide variety of books at the exhibition will enable more New Zealanders to better feel, read and understand China, which will help enhance mutual understanding between the two countries. 

Dave Bromwich, former president of the New Zealand China Friendship Society said, these two exhibitions represented "a very very good insight into Chinese culture." He encouraged New Zealanders to pick up one of those books and start to understand it. 

Co-hosted by China International Book Trading Corporation, New Zealand Culture and Arts Foundation and Prime Media New Zealand, both exhibitions will run until Sept. 19. The books will be donated to local libraries and schools, and the paintings will be given to local children's hospitals and children's rehabilitation institutions. 

Source: XINHUA