I have been a subscriber to Beijing Review since 1968, and have a complete set of the magazine since that time. Over the past 40 years I have witnessed dramatic changes and improvements in the style, content, and professionalism of the magazine. It is one of the very best sources to learn about China's global diplomacy -- one of the best places to learn about China's relations with Africa, Asia, Europe, Middle East, and Latin America, as this is not generally reported in the international media. I also learn new things about China's domestic development in almost every issue. The new multi-color and reader-friendly format is also refreshing and easy to read, and many of the photographs cannot be found anywhere else. All in all, I rely on Beijing Review as a very useful source of information about contemporary China.

My suggestions for improvement are three:

1. Include an interview with a Chinese official or leading expert in every issue.

2. Translate occasional important articles from the Chinese media and international relations journals.

3. Create an occasional "debate forum" where two experts debate -- pro and con -- a certain issue.

-- David Shambaugh, Professor of Political Science & International Affairs and Director of China Policy Program, The George Washington University 1957 E Street, NW Suite 503 Washington, D.C. 20052