BEAUTIFUL DANCES: A student from the Arabic Department of BFSU performs Arabic dances on April 14 (ZHANG LIPING)

The two countries' mutual trust has generated broad prospects for their cooperation in economy, trade, science, culture and military fields. The two countries have altogether signed 37 agreements, and have established Kuwaiti consulates in Hong Kong and Guangzhou respectively.

In addition, Kuwait's two major oil companies—Kuwait Oil Co. and Kuwait Petroleum International—have established representative offices in China. Currently, Kuwait is also preparing to establish a representative office of Kuwait Investment Authority in China.

Since 1982, when the two countries signed a cultural cooperation agreement, they have been committed to reaching the goal of the agreement—to exchange and present the two sides' unique culture and civilization. Cultural exchanges have built bridges between the two countries and led to deeper mutual understanding.

"The cultural night is another pearl on the crown of Kuwait-China relations," said Ambassador Mohammad Saleh Althuwaikh.

He believes the friendly and cooperative relations between the two countries will be enhanced to a new level, taking the opportunity of the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations.

BFSU is a foreign language university with a long history. So far, it has trained a large number of foreign language talents for the country. Renowned as a cradle for Chinese diplomats, it has produced more than 400 diplomatic envoys including the incumbent ambassador of China to Kuwait.

The Arabic Department of BFSU boasts a leader in China's Arabic language education. Established more than 50 years ago, it has made great contributions to Chinese diplomacy. So far, most Chinese ambassadors to Arab countries have graduated from the department.

In addition to language study, the department also pays great attention to cultivating student interest and understanding of Arab and Islamic cultures. It established students' performance troupes. Through the performance learning and practice, it taught the students traditional Arabic songs, dances and poetry. It also taught the students to play traditional folk musical instruments. Their performances are close to professional level.

The department especially emphasizes social practice. It maintains close and friendly ties with embassies of Arab states in China, including the Embassy of Kuwait in China. It often encourages students to participate in various foreign exchange activities. Through these measures, it not only provides opportunities for the students to get practical experiences, but also wins prestige for the department itself.