"The Year of Chinese Culture in Turkey 2012" was launched in the Turkish capital Ankara on Dec. 12, 2011, and is offering a wide variety of cultural activities.

"The culture year closely ties up the two old civilizations with the silk road again, which is marked as a milestone in cultural and diplomatic relations between the two countries," Chinese Ambassador to Turkey Gong Xiaosheng said in a recent interview.

Gong said the 2012 Chinese culture year in Turkey, with the theme "Charming China, Home of the Silk Road", is the biggest and highest-level national cultural and diplomatic event with the most exchange programs that China has held in Turkey since the establishement of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

More than 70 exchange programs will be held in Turkey during the year to promote Turkish people's understanding of the Chinese culture, Gong said.

Gong also provided some details on the forthcoming activities during the interview.

The ambassador said that as the guest of honor, China will present its exquisite cultural products, such as Chinese movies, Peking operas and traditional Chinese instrumental music in the first half of the year.

In the second half, three exhibitions showcasing cultural relics, Chinese modern art and Dunhuang grotto art will be held.

Gong said China had put a lot of efforts into preparing the culture year in Turkey. For example, China had engaged public relations firms to help publicize the planned activities in leading newspapers, on TV, and in broadcast, magazines and websites. Meanwhile, Chinese reporters were also invited to Turkey to promote the culture year.

"We hope to promote friendship between the peoples of China and Turkey through reproducing the prosperity of the silk road. The culture year will strengthen cooperation and deepen mutual understanding between the two countries, playing an important role in reinforcing Sino-Turkish strategic cooperation," Gong said.

A mutual cultural event, "The Year of Turkish Culture in China" will be celebrated in 2013.