YANGON, May 21 (Xinhua) -- A ceremony to launch the renovation work of Myanmar National Theater in the commercial city of Yangon with Chinese aid was held Tuesday at the theater.

Speaking at the launching ceremony, Myanmar Minister of Religious Affairs and Culture Thura U Aung Ko described the event as a deep demonstration of close friendship and mutual help between Myanmar and China, while Yangon Region Chief Minister U Phyo Min Thein said the project will remain as a new milestone in the history of Myanmar-China friendship.

Noting that the National Theater is the largest one in Myanmar and was built with the assistance of China, Chinese Ambassador Hong Liang said the theater has hosted many artistic shows for many years, fulfilling the outlook of Myanmar people.

Since the theater plays an important role in China-Myanmar cultural exchange currently, China will renovate it to a modern theater according to the requirement of Myanmar side, he said, adding that the project will contribute to the promotion of mutual understanding and paukphaw (fraternal) friendship between peoples of the two countries.

The renovation work, which covers upgrading of sound system, stage lighting system, airconditioning system and other general repair and maintenance, is estimated to take two years' time.