Designed to display the essence of French culture, the Beijing French Culture Center opened to the public on Thursday.

As one of the fruits of the cooperation between China and France, the center will work as a platform for the emotional and cultural exchanges between the people of the two countries.

"The center will be open to all the people who are interested in France or the French culture. And I hope it will grow into a key place for the Beijingers to experience the French culture and a helpful link connecting China and France," said director Patrick Michel.

Located in the Chaoyang district of Beijing, the center consists of a multi-media library, cinema, bookstore, French training center and consultation center for those considering overseas study in France.
 
(Xinhua News Agency November 26, 2004)