A series of cultural activities will be held in China and Qatar in 2016 as part of a "Cultural Year" between the two countries, according to the Ministry of Culture on Jan 15.

The event will feature 27 live performances, exhibitions, films and TV program screenings and other activities in fields such as photography, literature, and sports.

China will sponsor 17 activities, including an exhibition on contemporary Chinese arts curated by renowned artist Cai Guoqiang and a screening of a movie jointly produced by the two countries. Qatar will sponsor 10 activities, including exhibitions on pearls and the country's contemporary arts.

"Qatar was an important hub on the ancient Silk Road ...and is also a key country in realizing the 'Belt and Road' strategy. This year's event will help bridge cultural exchange and cooperation between the two countries," ministry official Lu Yanfei said at a press conference on Jan 15.