China Foreign Affairs University (CFAU), the cradle of diplomats, set up a new school on Friday - the College of Diplomacy and International Relations - with former foreign minister Li Zhaoxing as the dean.

Li Zhaoxing, former foreign minister, receives a certificate naming him the dean of the College of Diplomacy and International Relations at China Foreign Affairs University on Friday from Wu Jianmin, university president.

Meeting students at a ceremony marking his appointment, Li highlighted the key criteria for a diplomat.

"The most important is love for your country. This is my deepest feeling during my career at the foreign ministry," said Li.

"I hope graduates from this college can better serve our country, our people and contribute to peace and development around the world," he added.

Li, a diplomat for nearly 40 years, retired this spring. He was appointed foreign minister in 2003, and was Chinese ambassador to the United States from 1998 to 2001.

Some students said they like Li's animated style and are excited to have him as the dean.

"He is very friendly," said Wang Lei, a third-year student majoring in diplomacy.

CFAU President Wu Jianmin said the establishment of the school reflects "a golden era" for China's diplomacy.

"China's diplomacy has entered a golden era, and it is in this context that the college has been set up," said Wu, who was formerly ambassador to France.

"Never have we seen such a big stage for us, never have people expected so much of us, and never has the world looked at China with such a high hope," he added.

CFAU, established in 1955, is affiliated to the Foreign Ministry, and specializes in training international affairs experts and diplomats.

(China Daily November 10, 2007)