Stanford University is to open its first Asian branch in Beijing this September, according to an agreement it signed with China's Peking University Wednesday.  

Under the agreement, Stanford students will be sent to study at Peking University this autumn, taught by professors from the two universities.

Peking University started exchange programs with Stanford University since 1994, with American students coming to learn the Chinese language.

Prof. John L. Hennessy, president of Stanford University, said the university had sent students to study abroad for more than 30 years, and instead of European countries, more and more students preferred to further their studies in Asia.

(Xinhua News Agency May 27, 2004)