Beijing's Capital Museum is expanding its exchanges with other countries as part of the city's renewed focus on building a national cultural center.[Photo by Shou Yiren/For China Daily]

"Museums are not only cultural institutions, but have the function of promoting diplomacy and closely connecting different cities," Guo said.

There is still much to do. President Xi's recommendation that museums compile records and chronicles has become a pillar for the institution's work.

"We are processing projects on oral history and intangible cultural heritage to record the traditional Beijing lifestyle, for example," Guo said. "Everyone knows such work will take a long time. However, we need to leave some memories for future generations."

Guo also is busily preparing to mark the museum's founding 35 years ago and its move 10 years ago to its current venue. The museum will celebrate the two milestones this year with a series of top-tier exhibitions.

From March to June, the museum will stage an exhibition to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the discovery of the Fu Hao tomb and artifacts at Yinxu in Henan province. The site was identified as the final resting place of the queen and military general Fu Hao, who died about 1200 BC, and is the only Shang royal tomb found intact with its contents.

When the Hall of Mental Cultivation at the Forbidden City undergoes a major renovation in the fall, its highlighted exhibits are also to be shown at the Capital Museum.

Guo, who accompanied the president on his 2014 visit, said it was both memorable and inspirational.