Visitors enjoy paintings by Chinese artists at the exhibition in Yangon. [Photo provided to China Daily]

U Aik Htun, chairman of Shwe Taung Group, a leading corporation in Myanmar and a cosponsor of the art tour, said: "The art exchange program will help bring Myanmar's art and folk culture to the inter-national community. It will prove important in boosting Myanmar's economy."

Shwe Taung Group has partnered with corporations from 12 countries to improve the infrastructure in Myanmar, ranging from express highways and railways to bridges and hydroelectric power. "But we can't neglect the power of art," said U Aik Htun. "Only by improving the art intelligence in the country could people shape a forward-looking mindset."

Contact the writers at jenny@chinadailyhk.com