The first high-level official forum on China-Africa Media cooperation was held on Thursday in Beijing. It aims to deepen cultural and people to people exchanges, and promote the development of a new China-Africa strategic partnership.

More than 200 delegates from 42 African countries, as well as high level officials from the Chinese side attended the forum. Leaders from the communication industry say they plan to play a bigger role on the global media stage.

Cai Fuchao, Minister of State Administration of Radio, Film and Television, said, "By means of filing more reports on China and Africa, we hope to promote mutual understanding, and correct some of the biast opinions about us in the West."

The media forum was set up under the framework of the fifth conference of the forum on China-Africa Cooperation, held in Beijing last month.

At present China is already involved in training journalists from Africa, while a proposed China Africa press exchange center in China should also see more visits between news correspondents from the two sides.

Jean Ping, Chairman of African Union Commission, said, "We want to give stronger efforts in having the African voices heard by the world. There're many protests and movements going on this continent, but we want to tell people what happens through our own angle and views, and have a competitive media outlet on the international stage."

China and Africa's trade ties have been strengthening over the years. Bilateral volume reached a new high of $166 billion last year, with African exports to China rising to $93 billion. Participants of the forum believe more media cooperation will ensure a healthy China-Africa relationship.

(CNTV.cn August 23, 2012)