Northeast Asia Forum launches book of commonly used Chinese characters

A visitor enjoys the calligraphy work of 808 frequently-used Chinese characters by Korean calligraphers. [Photo/Xinhua]

Leaders of the delegations, Chinese Vice Premier Zeng Peiyan, former Japanese Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda and former South Korean Prime Minister Lee Hong-koo, wrote calligraphy on scrolls using Chinese characters after the launching ceremony of the book. According to Xinhua News Agency, it is a gesture to show their expectations that the new book would further enhance cultural ties of the three countries while lifting communication barriers.

Zhang Xinsheng, president of China Education Association for International Exchange, said in a group discussion on Monday afternoon that the three countries should promote the establishment of a China-Japan-South Korea union university, including the 808 characters in the curriculum so as to promote their application.