24 April 2012 Last updated at 03:33 ET

Bangor University to set up Confucius Institute to spread Chinese understanding

Confucius Institutes are supported by the Chinese government

A deal has been struck between Bangor University and a law school in China to set up a Confucius Institute.

The institute, named after China's most famous philosopher, has received the support of the Chinese government.

It will be established at Bangor's law school, and aims to spread awareness and understanding of Chinese language and culture.

The institute will be part of a network of more than 320 around the world.

Bangor University vice-chancellor Professor John Hughes said the institute was a major project.

"Chinese culture is playing an increasingly important role in regional and global economic development, and is making its presence felt in a variety of international arenas, including here in the north Wales region," he added.

"I am confident the establishment of the Confucius Institute in Bangor will provide our students and the local community with unprecedented access to many remarkable aspects of Chinese culture."

Professor Huang Jin, president of the China University of Political Science and Law, said: "Confucius was the most famous thinker.

"Eastern and the western cultures share common values, which are pursued through different paths."

The Confucius Institute will be formally launched in September.

There are 322 Confucius Institutes and 369 Confucius classrooms set up in 96 countries.