Goethe, a renowned cultural figure in German history, has inspired generations of his countrymen with his brilliant works. Now, a German-headquartered institute named after him is promoting cultural exchange around the world.

Since being founded in Munich in 1951, the Goethe Institute has established its presence in 80 countries and 127 cities.

Among these, the Goethe Institute in Beijing is playing a key role in Sino-German cultural communication.

"Distinguished from other overseas branches of Goethe Institute, the Beijing branch faces an environment where culture has a closer bonding with economic and political domains," said Michael Kahn Ackermann, director of the Beijing center.

Until 2004, Goethe Institute Beijing had been the only foreign cultural organization recognized by China.

Rich creativity and concise thinking are the essence of German cultural values, Ackermann added.

Goethe Institute Beijing has organized a number of promotional activities to showcase the charms of the creative, concise-thinking and diversified German culture.

The activities cover a wide range, from art performances, exhibitions and forums, to educational cooperation programs.

This autumn will witness the beginning of a three-year cultural campaign. Highlighting urban culture, the series of activities during the campaign will present an all-around perspective on German lifestyle and culture.

Goethe Institute Beijing will work as coordinator of the large-scale campaign.

Besides creating useful ideas, a successful cultural cooperation also fosters mutual respect and understanding, Ackermann pointed out.

"Currently, a new 'middle-level income group' is arising in China, who are the focus of our activities. This targeted group receives higher education and has a stronger consumption power. More importantly, they are interested in culture," Ackermann said, adding: "We are catering to their interests."

Source: China Daily