The cultural exchange is vital to enhancing mutual understanding between Laos and China, a visiting Chinese art delegation official said here on Wednesday.

The Art Delegation of Shanxi University gave a wonderful cultural performance at the Lao capital's National Culture Hall on Tuesday, as part of a series of activities to strengthen communication between Laos and China.

Yu Guodong, Director of the Foreign Affairs Office at Shanxi University and head of the Chinese art delegation, described at a interview with Xinhua the show as a display of Chinese art and culture, with emphasis on friendship between the youth of the two countries.

The show, co-organized by the Confucius Institute of the Lao National University, was performed by 25 teachers and students to welcome the coming Chinese lunar New Year, celebrate the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Laos and China, and provide a chance for Lao people to learn about traditional Chinese culture.

"There will be two performances, and other activities will also be held at the National University of Laos to provide an interactive platform for Lao and Chinese young people to enhance mutual understanding and friendship, and to share experiences in learning and teaching Chinese culture," Yu said.

This is the Art Delegation of Shanxi University's first visit to Laos, which started on Jan. 15 and will last to Jan. 31, before the group departs for Cambodia.