Remarks by H.E.Dr.Han Zhiqiang at the 60th National Day Reception
2012-01-03 13:53
                                                                    1 October 2009, Novotel Lami Bay

His Excellency, President of the Republic of Fiji

Ministers and Permanent Secretraries,

Members of the Diplomatic Corps,

Members of the Local Chinese community,

Distinguished Guests,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Good evening. Ni Sa Bula.

Today, 1 October 2009, is the commemorative day marking the 60th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China.

Sixty years mean an important historic period, and the number 60 stands for success, perfection and auspiciousness in traditional Chinese culture. This reception is to celebrate the 60th national day of P. R.C, and to share with all of you here the auspiciousness bestowed with the 60tri anniversary. Welcome to this reception.

On this very day 60 years ago, the People's Republic of China emerged from the semi-feudal and semi-colonial country and opened a new chapter in Chinese history as an independent socialist country of democracy and freedom. During the 60 years, China has undergone tremendous changes and made remarkable achievements in economy, culture, social security and overall national strength and people's living standards. Especially during the recent 30 years, China experienced over 9% annual economic growth and rises as the world's third largest economy and second largest trading nation. The Chinese people, once lacking basic living necessities, are now enjoying initial prosperity. Having the socialist democracy with the core system of the people's congress, the Chinese people are living in sufficient democracy and freedom they never experienced before. All the achievements are attributed to the unremitting endeavor and painstaking efforts by Chinese under the leadership of Chinese Communist Party to our finding of a development road compatible to China's national conditions and to the support and assistance from friendly countries and people.As Chinese Ambassador to Fiji, I would like to take this opportunity to extend my heartfelt appreciation to all friends who care and support China's development.

China is a developing country with numerous challenges Along the road of socialism with Chinese Characteristic, we are confident that we can fulfill the development objective of building a well-off society in an all-round way by the middle of this century, upgrade people’s living standard to the level of medium-developed country and build China into a prosperous, democratic, civilized and harmonious modern country.

Ladies and gentlemen,

During the 60 years, China has strengthened friendly cooperation with all the other countries in the world comprehensively. China will unswervingly follow the path of peaceful development and work closely with other countries to build a harmonious world of lasting peace and common prosperity.

The Chinese Government highly values its relations with the Pacific Island countries and assists the regional economic and social development within its capacity. The two sides have enjoyed frequent high-level visits, dynamic exchanges between parliaments and political parties and deepening mutual political trust. Bilateral economic and trade relations have been growing steadily. Cooperation in agriculture, fishery, culture, tourism and etc is expanding and the two sides have conducted good coordination and communication on international and regional issues.

Fiji is a beautiful country with great hope and potential for development. The relationship between China and Fiji is an integral part of China's relations with Pacific island countries. We are happy to see that China-Fiji relations remain sound and robust. Facts have proved and will continue to prove that our good relations serve the interests of both countries and peoples and are conducive to the stability and development of this region.

Next year will see the 35th anniversary of the establishment of our diplomatic relations. We firmly believe that, through the joint efforts of both sides, China-Fiji relations will have a brighter future.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

May I invite you to join me in a toast,

To the prosperity of China and Fiji!

To the world peace and development!

To your health.

Cheers!