China, with nearly one-quarter of the world's population, has emerged as a nation that plays a significant role in world affairs. As a developing nation it has made great progress in improving the quality of life for its one billion people. Gone are the days when famine and disease took their toll. Visiting Americans are impressed with improvements in the health, education, and social services available to the Chinese citizen.

With the realization of full diplomatic relations between the government of the U.S. and China in 1979, the opportunities for the American and chinese people to learn from one another have improved significantly. Cultural, scientific, educational, medical and technological exchanges, which are of great value to both countries, are expanding rapidly. The US-China Peoples Friendship Association participates actively in these exchanges.