Treaty of Peace and Friendship: Chinese, Japanese students mark 40 years of peace in Beijing

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It's 40 years since China and Japan signed their Treaty of Peace and Friendship and it's a pact that has remained strong ever since. Many cultural events are being staged in both countries to mark the milestone, and there was a rather special one on Wednesday at Peking University, a major research institute in the Chinese capital. Omar Khan has more.

A university hall in Beijing staging Chinese Kunqu Opera and Japanese boxing. As recently as 40 years ago, it's a scene which would be hard to imagine. But today, hundreds of students from both countries gathered under the same roof at Peking University to show how far their relations had come in such a short period of time.

KOTAROMIWA, STUDENT WASEDA UNIVERSITY "This kind of chance is very helpful. I'm really glad to be here and communicate with Chinese students. They are so nice and kind to me. I'd like to do the same thing in Japan also."

XIE SHUMING, STUDENT PEKING UNIVERSITY "During our conversations with Japanese students, I could see the differences and comparisons between our two countries. We understand each other. And we promote each other's cultures."

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang sent a congratulatory message to the organisers. He said such occasions gave him great hope for the years ahead. Chinese vice foreign minister, Kong Xuanyou, was on hand to pass on his words of encouragement.

KONG XUANYOU CHINESE VICE FOREIGN MINISTER "Youngsters represent the future. How young people of China and Japan perceive each other affects the future direction and development of the two countries. The Chinese government will continue to support youth exchanges between both."

Meanwhile, Japan's ambassador to China was also present to deliver a message from Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.

HIROSHI YOKAI JAPANESE AMBASSADOR TO CHINA "The future of Japan and China belongs to the youngsters, like you, the ones sitting over here. I look forward to your future endeavors in your respective fields. The future bridge of friendship between the two countries is counting on you."

Many believe with stronger relations, both countries can facilitate more cultural and talent exchanges. How can Chinese Kunqu Opera and Japanese boxing be staged together in Beijing? The answer: through peace and cooperation.