China and Russia are organizing a millennium celebration programme to strengthen understanding and friendship between the two countries, it was announced Thursday in Beijing.

"Millennium China Week," to be held in August in Moscow, will showcase China's economic, scientific and cultural achievements.

Bu Fanzhou, secretary general of China 2000 Committee, said that Chinese traditional folk art performances such as Peking Opera and dragon dance would also be part of the activities. Aspects of everyday life in China such as cuisine and interior decoration will also be introduced to Russian people.

Dr Sergey Kortounov, executive director of Russian Millennium Committee, said the programme would spread Chinese culture and economic achievements and help enhance trade.

"Millennium Russia Week" will bring to China all the best the country has accomplished.

Russia has also invited China to take part in the Russian Festival of Fireworks in May as well as in the International Congress of Cultural Workers to be held in St. Petersburg later this year.

The Russian Government has allotted 250 million roubles (US$9 million) to millennium celebration programmes.