Li Changchun, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, talks with Huang Youyi, vice president of CIPG. [Photo by Li Dong/China.com.cn]

The 42nd London Book Fair opened at Earl's Court Exhibition Centre in London on April 16. Li Changchun, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, attended the opening ceremony of this major international publishing event.

Huang Youyi, vice president of CIPG, introduced two of the books published by CIPG.

Huang firstly introduced to Li the English and French version of the book "Africa: A Lifetime of Memories-- My Experiences and Understanding of Africa," written by Wei Jianguo.

Huang said CIPG acquired the book's foreign copyright before it was even finished, and was published on time for international book fair.

Li Changchun said this book's inspiration came about during a visit to Africa. He praised CIPG's efforts in introducing this book to an international audience of readers.

"Wei Jianguo accompanied me during my visit to Africa," Li said. "He talked to me about his experiences in Africa. I suggested that he develop these memories into a book, and asked the related departments to assist him in this endeavor. I wrote the preface for the book. The publishing of the French and English versions is very well-timed because of your strong market consciousness."

Huang also introduced to Li the multi-language versions of the book "Why and How the CPC Works in China," published by the Beijing-based New World Press. Li praised the book's topic, and said the book helps China to better communicate with the world at large.

"The topic of the book is perfectly chosen. Instead of talking boldly how great and how right China is, we should instead use gentle language to gradually convey our ideas and core values."

China was market focus of the 2012 London Book Fair, and CIPG did not disappoint expectations, bringing 972 book titles-- twice the number of the previous year-- in 43 different languages for the exhibition.