In light of the "Experience China" cultural exchange program in Kampala, Uganda, Chinese officials on Thursday donated a large number of print and video publications to the National Library of Uganda in a ceremony spruced up not only by the speeches from attending officials, but also by the cheerful dance performances from a children's chorus.

Ling Li, a senior official of the Chinese delegation (left), hands over the catalogue of books to Ugandan Minister for Information and National Guidance Mary Karoro Okurut, in a ceremony held in Kampala, Uganda on Thursday. [Pang Li/China.org.cn]

The cultural exchange program coincides with the celebration of the 50th anniversary of China-Uganda diplomatic relations and the Golden Jubilee celebrations of Uganda's independence. The donation includes more than 1,000 publications discussing China's politics, economy, arts and history.

"The book donation is a testimony to the deep friendship between the Chinese and the Ugandan people," said Zhang Yanbin, head of the Chinese delegation, "I hope that reading books from China can enhance the people's understanding of China and the Chinese-Ugandan ties. I also hope those books can spread knowledge about China and be of use to Uganda's economic and social development."

The UgandanMinister for Information and National Guidance Mary Karoro Okurut spoke very highly of the Chinese move.

"The donation of books and the many other forms of support the people of China extend to Uganda are indications of the excellent relationsship between Chinese and Ugandan… As a developing economy, China has stood by her friends in Africa through the China-Africa Partnership, ensuring that their economies willdevelop equally and the people get to enjoy the high standards of living that Chinese people are enjoying," Okurut said.

Okurut said that the donated books "supplement the [Ugandan] government's efforts in the eradication of illiteracy in the country and contribute to the millennium development goal of achieving universal primary education." The donation also "matches the theme of the Golden Jubilee-building a firm foundation for transformation." The books will "contribute to addressing the shortage of books in our public libraries throughout the country," she added.

During the well-organized function, two groups of primary school students entertained participants with their enthusiastic and rhythmic dance moves. One group was dressed in school uniforms, waving Uganda's national flags, whereas the other group bore traditional clothing and moved to the drum beats. Their wide smiles and lively dance moves gave the event a festive atmosphere. The onlookers couldn't help but clap and smile.

On Tuesday, the Chinese delegation handed over 30 TV documentaries to Uganda Broadcasting Corporation (UBC). These documentaries cover China's vast array of natural sceneries, economy, culture and urban construction. They will be aired on UBC's channel as a part of the "Experience China" program.