The Norwegian ambassador to China said in Guiyang, provincial capital of Guizhou Province, recently he was satisfied with the development of the ongoing Norway-funded programs to protect cultural and ecological treasures in Guizhou Province, southwest China.

Haakon Baardson Hjelde, the ambassador, and his entourage traveled 1,600 kilometers in the province last week and were impressed with the "colorful cultural heritage".

The ambassador met with Vice-Governor of Guizhou Wang Zhengfu upon the end of his tour. He expected more cooperation between his country and China.

Since 1997, the Norwegian government has provided five million yuan (US$602,000) in aid to build four "ecological museums" in Guizhou, to protect its cultural and ecological uniqueness in the native homelands of ethnic groups.

Two museums have been completed and opened, and two others will be completed next year, according to the provincial cultural department.

Wang said that the programs have played an active role in protecting local environment and ethnic culture.

(Xinhua News Agency March 30, 2003)