BEIJING -- Now members of the public were given a rare chance to see the inner workings of International Department of CPC central committee in Beijing on Friday.

The International Department plays an very active role in promting party-to-party relations and exchanges with foreign countries. CCTV reporter Shen Le went along to the event to find out more.

The International Department is part of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China, and as the name quite rightly suggests, the department is responsible for the Party's international work.

On Friday more than 40 netizens were invited to join a tour of the facility.

Li Lianfu, Former Ambassador to Cuba, said, "There are many good examples of how party-to-party ties can help our causes. For example, there are still some countries in Latin America that still haven't established diplomatic relations with China. Party-to-party exchanges will help normalize ties with these countries."

The invitees were then able to participate in an on-going meeting between the department's vice Minister and a delegation from Germany.

Li Junjun, Vice-Minister of Int’l Dep. of CPC Central Committee, said, "As you may know, The Communist Party of China is quite open, both at home and overseas. We maintain ties with more than 600 parties in more than 160 countries and regions."

Harald Leibrecht, member of German Parliament, said, "Many Germans get to know China through local media reports. But I don't think they understand the vigor of this country. So I hope there will be more exchanges between us."

Visitors are from across the country, with a wide range of backgrounds.

At the end of the event, they had a much better understanding of how the department works. Some were so impressed they even opted to join.

An Wenfeng said, "Now I know the party-to-party exchanges are really important in developing ties with other countries. This experience is valuable."

Zhang Xun, postgraduate student of China Foreign Affairs University, said, "I'm interested in how the party-to-party exchanges are implemented. And personally, I'd like to join the department after graduation."

Shen Le said, “For many years, the International Department of the CPC Central Committee has been little known entity for many in the general public. However, through interactions like this, the department is allowing more transparency in its operation and also encouraging the public to learn more.”