Tian Xuejun, Chinese ambassador to South Africa, addresses the launch ceremony of the Chinese Film Showcase in Pretoria, South Africa, on Dec. 10, 2014. The launch ceremony of the Chinese Film Showcase was held on Wednesday. About 10 Chinese films are scheduled to be showed in Pretoria and Johannesburg in the following months. [Xinhua/Zhai Jianlan]

With Chinese Partner as the opening film, the Chinese Film Showcase was launched in Pretoria, South Africa, on Dec. 10, 2014. Tian Xuejun, Chinese ambassador to South Africa; Matthews Matjila, director general of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation of South Africa's Foreign Ministry, and officials of both countries spoke at the launching ceremony.

Tian Xuejun sent his congratulations on the successful conclusion of the 10th Senior Officials' Meeting of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation. He said that South African President Jacob Zuma met and held talks with top Chinese leaders during his visit to China, and the two countries signed a series of cooperation agreements, which have great significance on China-South Africa bilateral relations.

According to Tian, 2015 will be Year of China in South Africa, with joint efforts to create a bridge of friendship between the two countries. This film showcase will be a prelude to the activities next year.

About 10 Chinese films are scheduled to be shown in Pretoria and Johannesburg in the following months, including Confucius, The Grandmaster, So Young, Chinese Zodiac and If You Are the One 2.

The Chinese Film Showcase was hosted by the Chinese embassy to South Africa and South Africa's Foreign Ministry, co-organized by SA-China People's Friendship Association.