(Photo:  NAMOC)

An International Alliance of Art Museums and Galleries involving the countries along the “Belt and Road” route was established in Beijing on Tuesday, to enhance cultural exchanges and art cooperation. 

The founding ceremony was held at the National Art Museum of China. 

Present at the ceremony were 24 representatives of national art museums and art institutions from 18 countries along the "Belt and Road” route. The countries include Russia, Ukraine, Greece, and India. 

China's Ministry of Culture and Tourism said cultural exchanges based on the spirit of the Silk Road is an important part of the Belt and Road Initiative.

Wu Weishan, Director of the National Art Museum of China, said in his speech at the ceremony that he expected the alliance to boost art cooperation and deepen mutual understanding.

"In the past, China conducted economic and cultural exchanges with countries along the Silk Road. Today, the establishment of the alliance aims to strengthen cooperation in art studies, collection, exhibition and communication among countries and regions along the road, as well as to enhance mutual understanding and friendship," said Wu.

"I think it's a very significant decision because it brings closer people and nations with great culture," said Katerina Koskina, Director of National Museum of Contemporary Art of Greece. 

After the ceremony, the representatives attended the first meeting of the Forum of Silk Road International Alliance of Art Museums and Galleries, themed "Inclusiveness and Advancement".

An exhibition will be held, featuring 17 art pieces, such as paintings and sculptures, from 14 countries involved in the Belt and Road Initiative.

The representatives will later visit Dunhuang in northwest China's Gansu Province, an important stop along the ancient Silk Road.