An exhibition of paintings by students of the Jing'an School of the Chinese city of Huzhou, organized

by the Center for Chinese Architecture and Chinese Language of the Confucius Institute of the

University of Languages (AUL), has opened at the Azerbaijan University of Architecture and

Construction. More than 100 paintings and art postcards displayed at the exhibition are dedicated to

the picturesque landscapes of Zhejiang Province, the historical Taihu Lake, the sights of Lunar Bay,

and the customs and traditions of the people of Huzhou. Delivering a speech at the opening

ceremony, rector of the Azerbaijan University of Architecture and Construction, Professor Gulchohra

Mammadova noted the progressive development of the Azerbaijan-China cultural and scientific-

educational relations, and strengthening of friendship and cooperation relations between the

peoples of the two countries, who are historically connected by the Great Silk Road. Speaking at the

ceremony Chinese Ambassador to Azerbaijan Ms. Guo Min noted that in recent years Chinese-

Azerbaijani relations have been actively developing in all spheres with personal care and assistance

of heads of the two countries. She expressed a hope that the new Chinese Training Center of AUL

Confucius Institute at Azerbaijan University of Architecture and Construction will become a platform

for learning Chinese language and understanding of Chinese culture and will contribute to

development of humanitarian exchange between China and Azerbaijan. During the exhibition,

teachers and students of the Confucius Institute of AUL performed a colorful concert program, held

a tea ceremony and a master class on Chinese calligraphy. Rafig Abbasov, Director of the AUL

Confucius Institute, said that the exhibition of paintings was the first event, held by the Center for

Chinese architecture and Chinese language. The Center plans to create a library of literature on

Chinese architecture, hold lectures on the history of Chinese architecture, introduce students to the

Chinese architectural decor, palace and garden architecture in China, as well as establish scientific

and educational links between the Azerbaijan University of Architecture and Construction and

Huzhou University, which is a partner of the Confucius Institute AUL and leading specialized

universities in China.