To celebrate the 55th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China and the 55th anniversary of the establishment of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA), the 2nd Exhibition of Photography: the World Wide Watch by Chinese Diplomats co-hosted by the trade union and the association of photography of the MFA is opened ceremoniously today at China Art Gallery. Former Vice-Premier Qian Qichen of the State Council inscribed the name of the exhibition, State Councillor Tang Jiaxuan and Member of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) and Chairperson of the Chinese Photographers' Association Shao Hua inscribed the message of congratulation respectively and Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing wrote the preface.

In the opening ceremony, leading member of the MFA and Chairman of the association of photography of the MFA Qiao Zonghuai delivered a speech. The Secretary-General of the Chinese Photographers' Association Li Qianguang addressed the ceremony on behalf of the guests. Following the ribbon-cutting ceremony, personages of various circles and the viewers visited the exhibition with great interest. Most of them agreed that this exhibition of photography, which covers a large variety of subjects from a unique perspective, has broadened their views and enhanced their understanding of the kaleidoscopic world and they have understood the spirit, cultural life and artistic accomplishment of China's diplomatic staff through this exhibition.

The over 420 works shown in the exhibition were picked out from the more than 2600 pieces sent by Chinese embassies and consulates stationed overseas, delegations permanently stationed to international organizations and units within the MFA, covering 110 countries and regions of the five continents and thus constituting an epitome of the current colorful world.

Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing, Vice-Secretary of the CPC Trade Union Committee of Central Government Agencies Huang Yanming, Chairperson of the Chinese Photographers' Association Shao Hua and other officials attended the opening ceremony. About 300 participants were present at the ceremony, including leaders from the MFA, personages from the photographic and press communities and representatives of those whose works have been selected. This 6-day exhibition of photography will be concluded on September 10.