On the afternoon of Nov.28, a famous figure in China's art world was honored at the Jintai Art Museum. The museum's curator, famed Chinese painter Yuan Xikun, was awarded the Medal of Supreme Honor from the Republic of Belarus. Yuan was recognized for his contribution to building friendship and cultural communication between China and Belarus.

Representing the President, Belarus' Minister of Culture Leonid Povlovich Gulyako made a special visit to Beijing. To award Belarus' Medal of Supreme Honor to Yuan Xikun, the curator of Jintai Art Museum and also a famous Chinese painter.

Art master Yuan has always been keen on international cultural communications. And he explains why such an honor was bestowed upon him.

Perhaps master Yuan's recognition may encourage more and more artists to engage in international cultural exchange.

(CCTV December 2, 2003)