Visitors view the exhibition of the late Chinese marshal Ye Jianying's life story at Carnegie Library in Washington on Thursday. The event also honored the 35th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and the United States. Liu Chang / China Daily

The 35th Anniversary of China-US Diplomatic Relations and Marshal Ye Jianying's Life Story Exhibition, organized by the Coordination Council of Chinese American Associations (CCCAA) and the Washington Nantong Association, held on Thursday at the Carnegie Library at Mt Vernon Square in Washington, shows the historical importance of developing a healthy relationship between the US and China.

The exhibit of Marshal Ye Jianying's life story features sections on his youth, joining the revolution, his years in the army and participation in the war of Resistance against Japanese Aggression and playing the role of a founding father. It has drawn visitors from both the US and China, as well as embassy officials.

In the turbulent decade during the War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression, China and US fought shoulder-to-shoulder against Japanese Fascism. Based on the shared hardships, the two countries forged a profound friendship from troops in the trenches up to government officials.

Ling Chi, vice-chairman of the China Confucius Committee, said although 35 years of history has elapsed in the blink of an eye, the eventful historical moments - like the Flying Tigers under Lt Gen Claire Chennault helping transport critical materials from Myanmar to Yunnan Province when Chinese soldiers lacked resources - will never be forgotten.

As Ling reminded everyone, "The Flying Tigers provided a life-saving strategic service to us."

"Our hearts are still full of gratitude for them today. Our peoples need to not only strengthen our cooperation and friendship at the 35th anniversary moving forward, but we must also never forget our history," she said.

Wu Xi, minister of the Chinese embassy, commended the exhibition on behalf of the Chinese mission. Wu said she was thankful to people who bear history in mind and always connect their heart with their motherland by helping improve bilateral relations and strengthen mutual understanding.

Wu acknowledged Marshal Ye's outstanding contributions to China's reforms and establishment. Wu recalled how Ye accompanied former US President Richard Nixon during his visit to China in 1972, opening the door to dialogue between the two countries and building a new template in which dialogue replaced confrontation and cooperation replaced conflict.

Wu said people often think of the past in order to look to build a better future, adding that progress in the Sino-US relationship has helped yield benefits to the citizens of both countries, the Asia-Pacific and the whole world.

Ruyi He, chairman of the Coordination Council of Chinese American Associations, said everyone in the audience had not only witnessed the 35 years of history, but also benefited from it.

"Although we are far away from our motherland, our hearts are always tied together. We need to be united to help advance cultural exchange and mutual understanding between the two countries," He said.

changliu@chinadailyusa.com