Guo Weimin (the 4th one from left) attends the opening ceremony of the activity. [Photo/people.com]

Government officials, publishers and library professionals in the US and China gathered on Monday in Seattle to launch a joint exhibit on Chinese braille publications.

They also shared ideas on how the government and community could better serve the visually impaired to increase their inclusion in society and the workforce.

Hosted by the Washington State Talking Book & Braille Library (WTBBL) in Seattle, the event was sponsored by the State Council Information Office of China and organized by the China Braille Press and the China Braille Library.

Guo Weimin, deputy director of the State Council Information Office, attended the opening ceremony with Kim Wyman, secretary of Washington state. China and Washington state have been active in economic and trade exchanges. The Braille-publication exchange will benefit the blind communities in both countries, Guo said.

There are about 17.3 million blind people in China. Braille publication is the cornerstone that supports the blind so that they can receive equal educations, share societal achievements and fully participate in society.

The Chinese government is increasing support for braille publication through legislation and regulations, having implemented the Basic Public Service System and the Opinions on Accelerating the Well-off Processes of the Disabled Persons, according to Guo.

For many thousands of patrons of the WTBBL in person, by mail or online, braille “opens the world of knowledge for people who are blind. It builds literacy and provides a key skill in higher education and employment,” Wyman said at the braille-exhibit launch. “The delegation here today honors us with your presence and your great commitment to bringing an array of services to the visually impaired.”