There was a course on China's experience with economic and social development, in Beijing, May 14 to July 3, designed specifically for Asian and European officials from Bangladesh, Timor, Georgia, Kyrgyzstan, the Maldives, Burma and Nepal.

Researchers of the Development Research Center of the State Council (DRC) explained China's basic conditions to the participants who also learned something about China's experience with reforms and opening-up as well as the contents and measures of overall reforms.

In addition, participants also got a chance to tour Beijing and visit Chengdu, Sichuan province, and Zhengzhou, Henan province to talk with local officials, and study the economic and social development of central and western parts of China.

There were also discussions with DRC researchers on issues related to economic and social development, during which they could explain their own country's situation and exchange thoughts.

Sponsor of the session was the Ministry of Commerce with hosting by DRC's Institute of Public Administration and Human Resources.

Cheng Guoqiang, director-general of DRC's International Cooperation Bureau, took part in and addressed the closing ceremony. Cheng was joined by Li Lan, vice-director-general of DRC's Public Administration and Human Resource Institute, who also spoke about the project. A Bangladeshi official addressed the closing ceremony on behalf of the other participants.

Hosting the closing ceremony was Lan Weiban, vice-director-general of DRC's International Cooperation Bureau.