China Central Television (CCTV) welcomed Sunday evening the fifth birthday of its English-language channel (CCTV 9) and the first anniversary of its Spanish and French channel (CCTV E&F).

More than two hundreds officials, foreign envoys and experts gathered at the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse to extend their congratulations to the two channels.

CCTV vice president Zhang Changming thanked all people for their trust and support for the international channels, saying that the two channels have developed from obscurity to much watched channels on comprehensive international news. They expressed China's stance and voice on international affairs and have become a bridge liking Chinese media with the world.

CCTV 9 and CCTV E&F release news around the clock in three languages as well as features, cultural and service programs. A large number of experienced foreign experts are employed for program making and release. By the end of the first half this year, CCTV 9 had landed in 37 countries and regions including the United States, Britain, France, Russia, India, North Europe, Africa, Middle East and Hong Kong with about 40 million subscribers. CCTV E&F also landed in the United States, Cuba, Madagascar and Mauritius.

Diplomats from the United States, France, the European Union and Mexico spoke highly of these two channels, believing they have provided a convenient meeting ground for the world to better understand China. They hope CCTV E&F can be available in the Chinese inland at an early date.

By People's Daily Online