SOUTH AFRICA will host the 10th BRICS Summit in Johannesburg next week. The country has designed an extensive outreach program in and around the summit, and is providing invaluable opportunities for cultural and social exchange. CGTN's Julie Scheier has more.

It may be a side event, but it's none the less important. An exhibition featuring Chinese porcelain's journey along the Silk Road, has opened in Johannesburg. 160 pieces are on display, showcasing historical products of Jingdezhen, China's "porcelain capital". Offering an opportunity to delve into history.

MAKHOTSO SOTYU SOUTH AFRICAN DEPUTY MINISTER FOR ARTS AND CULTURE "It is very important to have an exhibition like this one. What is even more surprising is the fact that when it comes to porcelain most of the product that was used, the material that was used, they got it from South Africa but used somewhere else, it shows that we have a very rich products as South Africa, therefore it is very important that we go hand in hand with the Chinese community in order for us to be able to realise the dream of BRICS."

ZHAO GANG CURATOR, JINGDEZHEN CHINA CERAMICS MUSEUM "Chinese porcelain was transported to South Africa as early as 500 years ago in the Yuan Dynasty. I'm very happy that this exhibition can be held here today."

In addition to the exhibition, visitors enjoyed music played on porcelain instruments and discovered the unique charm of Chinese culture. But, South Africa hopes to also wow its BRICS partners.

FAITH MAZIBUKO MEC FOR SPORTS, ARTS, CULTURE AND RECREATION "In South Africa we have 11 cultures so with BRICS coming we will be able to showcase the wonderful work that we do, our different nationalities in our Rainbow Nation, and that is what is so exciting, and with this good relationship with BRICS we will be able to take it higher and higher and most of all be able to share our experiences and exchange our cultures."

JULIE SCHEIER JOHANNESBURG "With BRICS around the corner, it's not just about big Business and governance, but also about the rich heritage and diverse cultures these countries represent. JS, CGTN, JHB, SA."