WASHINGTON, June 22 -- Chinese Vice Premier Liu Yandong on Monday called for further exchanges in the sector of culture and art between China and the United States.

Liu made the remarks before the opening concert of the China-U.S. Composers Project at the music hall of Mayflower Renaissance Hotel in the U.S. capital city Monday evening.

Music has no boundaries and it could play a unique role in the exchanges between China and the United States, she said, adding that the China-U.S. Composers Project, which highlights art festivals, concerts and other forms of musical arts, offers an innovative platform for musicians of the two countries to conduct cooperation.

The composers and performers of the two countries will find inspiration during such exchanges and their music will help foster a closer bond between the peoples.

Evan Ryan, U.S. assistant secretary of state for educational and cultural affairs, said that over the past year, the U.S. government has sent musicians, dancers, film experts and writers as well as students to China for cultural exchange programs.

Meanwhile, cultural exchange programs supported by nongovernmental organizations have also helped the two peoples strengthen connections, she said.

The China-U.S. Composers Project aims to promote the music work of contemporary composers in both countries and enhance mutual understanding of the two peoples.