The 8th International Symposium on Fire Safety Science, themed Fire Science and Fire Safety Engineering, began in Beijing on Monday.

State Councilor Zhou Yongkang made the keynote speech at the opening ceremony, saying fire control work not only concerned people's lives and property, but also on building a harmonious society.

He said China has made remarkable progress in recent years and will continue to strengthen fire control, research and exchange and cooperation with international fire control research institutions.

He added that the International Association for Fire Safety Science (IAFSS) had played an important role in pushing work forward globally and safeguarding people's lives.

Zhou also met with Dougal Drysdale, IAFSS chairman, and other fire control experts before attending the opening.

The symposium is organized by the IAFSS and held every three years. A collection of the latest fire science research achievements is expected to be presented and discussed.

The five-day event was sponsored by China Fire Protection Association this year, and more than 450 experts from home and abroad are attending it.

(Xinhua News Agency September 2, 2005)