(October 1, 2005)

His Excellency Abdul Mannan Bhuiyan,

Hon'ble Minister for Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives,

Hon'ble Ministers and Excellencies,

Distinguished guests,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Good evening!

On the jubilant occasion of the 56th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, I am honored to have your gracious attendance at this reception. On behalf of the Chinese Government and people, I would like to extend our warm welcome to all guests present this evening.

Over the past 56 years, and especially the last 26 years since the implementation of the Reform and Opening-up Policy, tremendous changes have taken place in China. Domestically, China is enjoying political stability, economic prosperity, cultural diversity and social harmony. China has become one of the world's most dynamic countries with GDP's annual growth rate at an average of 9.4% and economic gross volume multiplied by 100 times, ranking the 5th-largest economy, the 4th largest trading power, and the 3rd largest foreign investment destination. Internationally, China consistently adheres to the independent policy of peace and cooperation and has achieved remarkable accomplishments in conducting foreign exchange and participating in the international affairs. It is our great joy to see that China today, with enhanced national strength and international status, is playing an ever more important role in maintaining world peace and promoting common  development.           

                                        

Ladies and gentlemen,

This year is of special significance in China-Bangladesh relations, as it marks the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between our two countries. Over the past 30 years, the bilateral relations have been growing smoothly. The all-round and multi-faceted exchange and cooperation in the fields of politics, economy, trade, culture, science and technology has yielded outstanding results. Both sides have maintained sound coordination and collaboration in international and regional affairs. The recent exchange of visits by both our Hon'ble Prime Ministers during the past months has given fresh impetus to the development of our friendly relations and cooperation. China-Bangladesh relations have become a good example of peaceful coexistence between countries with different social systems and cultural backgrounds. We have every reason to believe that with the joint efforts of our two governments and two peoples, the China-Bangladesh relations of Comprehensive Partnership of Cooperation featuring long-term friendship, equality, and mutual benefit will bear more fruits in the days to come.

                                      

Now, may I propose a toast,

To the continuous development of China,

To the even closer friendship and cooperation between China and Bangladesh,

To a peaceful and prosperous world, and

To the health of all friends present here,

Cheers!