As leaders and senior officials of 48 African countries gathered
in Beijing, they also brought with them a sample of the flavors of
the continent.
Banners about the summit could be seen in almost all major
places in Beijing such as Tian'anmen Square, and Xidan and
Wangfujing streets.
In front of the 155 large picture posters showing the beautiful
scenery and colorful lifestyles of Africa in Wangfujing, people
queued up waiting to take photos. "I hope I can visit Africa one
day, it's really fascinating," said a passer-by.
China has granted tourist destination status to 26 African
countries, according to an action plan endorsed yesterday.
According to several travel companies in Beijing, an increasing
number of people inquired about traveling to Africa. In each of the
large travel agencies, more than 200 tourists registered for tours
to Africa this month, up 30 per cent compared with the same period
last year.
In Tian'anmen Square outside the Great Hall of the People, the
venue of the historic summit, national flags of 48 African
countries that have diplomatic ties with China were blowing in the
strong wind yesterday.
A husband and wife were competing with each other on how many
national flags they could recognize.
Two exhibitions, one of coins and stamps from 48 African
countries and the other of African handicraft, were shown in the
National Museum on the east side of the Tian'anmen Square,
attracting lots of students and tourists.
In an African restaurant in Chaoyang District in the east of the
city, it has been hard to find a seat in the past week, the unique
food and entertainment attracting many people.
(China Daily November 6, 2006)