China has just released globally bilingual Chinese-English books, Library of Chinese Classics, to better introduce Chinese culture to the outside world, according to the State Press and Publication Administration (SPPA).

Comprising 92 volumes, the 51 kinds of classic books cover famous anas, poetry anthologies and novels. Some are dated back more than 2,500 years.

For example, The Analects of Confucius is a Confucian classic which appeared in book form in the early Warring States Period (475 BC - 221 BC). It recorded the dialogues, stories and anecdotes of Confucius, the philosopher.

"The books are regarded as the essence of Chinese classics and can represent the best of China's academic, publishing and translating circles," said Ren Jiyu, honorary curator of the National Central Library.

Language barrier has hindered China to introduce its culture to the world. Since 1994, China has organized experts at home and abroad to translate these classics to enable more foreign readers have access to Chinese culture and literary works. 

(Xinhua Jan. 13, 2007)