Foreign journalists in Beijing have visited an exhibition on democratic reform in Tibet, and the region's fast development over the last 50 years. The journalists represent some 30 organizations.

A foreign correspondent works at the "50th Anniversary of Democratic Reforms in Tibet" Exhibition in Beijing, capital of China, March 18, 2009. A number of foreign journalists, organized by the Information Department of China's Foreign Ministry, visited the exhibition on Wednesday. [Li Ming/fangXinhua]

Many described the exhibition at the Cultural Palace of Nationalities as "impressive" and "informative", and said it helped them gain a better understanding of Tibet.

Everything in the exhibition hall is about Tibet, including the decorations.

Change is the keyword. The focus is on the democratic reform of the region 50 years ago and its development since then.

It's about the better lives of the people and the preservation of culture.

Official figures show the undeniable achievements in many aspects of society.

The exhibition also features Tibetan medicine, food and handcrafts. Many visitors found them impressive.

Dr. Andrey Kirillov of Beijing Bureau Chief, Itar-Tass, said, "Tibetan people have their unique culture and ways of living. I've been to many places in Tibet and I think they are well-kept. I hope their culture and tradition will last."

The widely-acclaimed exhibition has already attracted more than 40 thousand people since it opened. The admission-free exhibition is scheduled to run for another month.

(CCTV March 19, 2009)