China, India seek to strengthen cinematic ties

In India, the China Film Festival has just concluded in New Delhi. During the 6-day event, Indian movie buffs got to see 10 Chinese films that each reflects a unique side of the country. And, as we see here, the two industry giants are also talking about future plans to work together.

Kicking off this year's festival is none other than actor Jackie Chan. His latest movie "Chinese Zodiac" was chosen as the opening film of the festival. At the press conference, the Kungfu master voices his eagerness to demonstrate his many other talents.

"I'm very very interested in making a Bollywood film...the script is very important...we make two versions, one for the world and one for India..I'm actually a good singer, I can sing and dance. Tell the producers and directors, I'm waiting," Jackie Chan said.

From the blockbuster comedy "Lost in Thailand" to the Wing Chun assault of "The Grandmaster", the festival has offered insight into the Chinese film industry, as well as the country itself.

Filmmakers from both countries have also discussed expanding cooperation in cinema. For both sides, teaming up would create access to two huge film markets.

In fact, statistics show that both countries had a combined four billion movie viewers last year.

"Collectively our industry represents a huge business opportunity. And I don't think it's a case of wanting to or needing to, it's a case of having to, we have to come together and stop worrying about the minor things and it's time to move forward," said Samir Gupta, CEO of Indian Cinema Capital Venture Fund.

And a series of projects has already been scheduled to take cultural relations to the next level.

"We have some concrete plans for cooperation, such as hosting film festivals for the other country, and exchanging media personnel and film students," said Cai Fuchao, director of State Admin. of Press, Publication, Radio, Film & TV.

India has also invited China to be its principal guest at the International Film Festival of India, to be held in Goa next year.