MUMBAI: In its first ever arrangement with any US Studio, China Central Television (CCTV) has joined Sony Pictures Television International (SPTI)'s programme licensing division to distribute a CCTV drama series in Asia.

As per the deal, SPTI picks up Asian distribution rights, excluding the People's Republic of China and Japan, to The Stories of Han Dynasty, an HDTV drama chronicling the lives of two men caught up in the revolution against the Qin dynasty.

"We're thrilled about selling The Stories of Han Dynasty and are extremely grateful to CCTV for the opportunity to distribute this acclaimed drama," SPTI's acquisitions executive and SPE Networks-Asia's vice president programming and production Betty Tsui said.

CCTV marketing executive GM Cheng Chunli added: "Together, CITVC and SPTI will be able to introduce quality productions such as The Stories of Han Dynasty to as many countries and media outlets as possible."

The CITVC deal comes on the heels of SPTI's distribution agreement with CJ Entertainment to distribute two Korean films throughout Asia, The Greatest Expectation and How to Keep My Love.