Cambodia's Angkor artifacts to be exhibited in China

Angkor Wat is a vast temple complex built in the 12th century in Siem Reap, Cambodia. [Photo provided to China Daily]

Eighty masterpieces from Cambodia's renowned Angkor Wat Temple will be displayed in China for six months, aiming at promoting cultural ties between the two countries.

Cambodian Minister of Culture and Fine Arts Phoeurng Sackona and Liu Shuguang, director general of the Chinese Academy of Cultural Heritage, signed an agreement on the ancient artifacts lease on Tuesday with the presence of Chinese Ambassador to Cambodia Bu Jianguo.

According to a press statement after the signing ceremony, Chinese Academy of Cultural Heritage, Beijing Huaxie Cultural Development Company and Capital Museum China will co-organize the exhibition, to be commenced in Capital Museum China in Beijing from December 26, 2014 for three months, afterwards in Guangdong Provincial Museum from April to late June in 2015.

The complete 80 pieces of historical relics are borrowed from the National Museum of Cambodia.

"As the first ever showing exhibition from Cambodia in China, this event is bound to open a new chapter of cultural exchange between the two countries," the statement said.

"It will provide a unique platform of reflection towards history, civilization, religious feature and arts achievement of Angkor period in Cambodia."

Phoeurng Sackona said the exhibition will be a unique chance to enhance friendship and cultural ties between Cambodia and China.

"We hope that the exhibition will help promote Cambodian culture to both Chinese and foreigners in China," she told reporters.

"I also hope that through the event, more Chinese tourists will visit Cambodia's Angkor Wat Temple, a world heritage site."