Former U.S. Secretary of State Henry Kissinger (C) attends the opening ceremony of the photo exhibition marking the 30th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic ties between China and the United States in Beijing Jan. 12, 2009. The exhibition kicked off here on Monday. [Yao Dawei/Xinhua]

Bush pointed out that during the past 30 years, US-Sino relations have been improving day by day. He noted that trade between the two countries has increased dramatically, while cooperation has also been stepped up on issues that relate to the interests of both peoples. He expressed his belief that if both sides continue their dialogue and cooperation, bilateral ties will become even closer over the next 30 years.

A total of 360 photos, selected from more than 10,000 on the subject, are displayed in four sections. The sections include the relationship's history, friendship of the two peoples, economic exchanges, and mutually beneficial cooperation.

These photos reflect important events in the political, trade and cultural areas of Sino-U.S. history. They begin with the sailing of an American trade ship to China and finish with photos of the U.S. synchronized swimming team that carried a banner saying "Thank you, China" in the Beijing Olympic Games.

Historic handshakes of four generations of Sino-U.S. leaders are also on display.

The year-long exhibition will tour Chinese cities and is scheduled to conclude in the Atlanta-based Cater Center in the United States in December.

(CCTV January 13, 2009)