A photo exhibition called "New Beijing, New Olympics" has opened in the German capital Berlin.

Accompanied by melodious Chinese classical music and the five lovable Fuwa--mascots of the 2008 Beijing Olympics--German visitors viewed pictures and video footage about Beijing and the Olympics.

The exhibition is sponsored by the Beijing Municipal Government and the Beijing Olympic Organizing Committee. Tian Maijiu, a senior official with the Beijing government hopes the exhibition can provide a chance for ordinary Germans to learn more about the 2008 Beijing Olympics, as well as life in Beijing.

"I believe the exhibition can enable Berlin citizens to directly feel Beijing's charm, get to know the efforts we are making in preparation of the Beijing Olympics, and have a further understanding about Beijing and the 2008 Olympics."

Along with Beijing speeding up its globalization and modernization, the holding of the Olympic Games in 2008 has helped it further become a global focal point. President of the Berlin Parliament, Walter Momper, also attended the opening ceremony on Sunday, he believes that the exhibition will further strengthen the friendship between Beijing and Berlin.

"We are living in one world, and share the same responsibilities and the good will of mutual development. We understand Chinese people's expectation towards the Olympics. It is a long-held dream of the Chinese. Us Europeans want to know about China, know about the Chinese people, as well as life and the thoughts of Beijing people."

Since Beijing and Berlin became sister cities in 1994, the cooperation between the two cities has deepened in all aspects. The exhibition has already roused strong interest among ordinary Berliners. Many hope to come to Beijing next year to enjoy the Olympic Games.

(CRI.cn via china.org.cn September 20, 2007)