The "International Sinology and Modern China" forum, co-sponsored by the China International Publishing Group (CIPG) and Confucius Institutes headquarters, has captured a lot of attention at the 2009 Frankfurt Book Fair.

"We hold the forum mainly in an effort to give the world a better view of modern China, as many people overseas are studying the Chinese language and want to get to know the country," CIPG President Zhou Mingwei told China.org.cn. This is the first forum CIPG has held at such book fair.

Sinology has a history of nearly 200 years, with its early studies mainly devoted to classic works and cultural history. In recent years, China's fast development has attracted the world's attention. The study, however, lags behind as many Sinologists remain focused on classic works, missing a sound knowledge of modern China and its achievements.

"After talks with some Sinologists, we find there is a need to raise people's attention to modern China. The idea is warmly received by worldwide Sinologists. Although they belong to different schools and have different viewpoints on this issue, they share a common interest in the forum," Zhou said.

"We have contacted several Sinologist representatives and have managed to invite some Chinese scholars in this field to attend the forum," said Zhou. "We hope this activity can give Western scholars and common people a deeper insight into the Chinese culture, both classic and modern. This will be an advantage to the cultural exchanges between China and the outside world."

Guests at the forum [China.org.cn/by Zhao Na]

Guests at the forum [China.org.cn/by Zhao Na]?