COLOMBO, Oct. 25 (Xinhua) -- A 10-day modern Chinese water ink painting exhibition kicked off in Sri Lanka's capital Colombo on Thursday.

Titled "Chinese Style International Tour of Modern Chinese Water Ink Paintings Exhibition," the event was organized by the China National Academy of Painting and the China Cultural Center in Sri Lanka.

Secretary of Sri Lanka's Ministry of Higher Education and Cultural Affairs, J.J. Rathnasiri, who was also the Chief Guest at the event, said Sri Lanka and China shared very strong cultural and art ties and such events would help local citizens learn more about Chinese art.

He said Sri Lanka and China also shared a very strong friendship since ancient times, and China had contributed towards Sri Lanka's social, cultural, commercial, and educational development.

"China has always helped us. And now we can proudly say that our friendship is only being strengthened further. We are glad such events are being held in the country for the benefit of local citizens," Rathnasiri said.

Director of the China Cultural Center in Sri Lanka Yue Liwen said this was the third art exhibition held by the China Culture Center in Sri Lanka this year.

"Chinese art is so vast and unique. All the three exhibitions held so far this year have showcased different types of art from China," he added.

The 10-day exhibition has 30 paintings on display which are divided into different categories, such as Chinese water ink paintings of sceneries, people, animals and plants.