Distinguished Guests,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Welcome to this reception in commemoration of the 60th anniversary of founding of the People's Republic of China.

China is a civilization of five thousand years. Compared to this history, sixty years is only a blink of eye. But it is exactly in this short period of time, that China has developed into the world's third biggest economy and trader. Our GDP grows by 77 times, and average income more than 100 times. Comprehensive progress has been made in political, social, cultural, educational, and scientific undertakings. The Chinese people enjoy an unprecedented political, social and cultural rights. China has transformed from a closed, backward and poor country into an open, progressive and prosperous country. Every Chinese is proud of such great achievements!

China's development in the past sixty years has brought enormous benefits to the world. Its vast market enables international investors to share the dividend of China's rapid economic growth. China's external trade not only serves its own economy, but also promotes the welfare of partners. China's overseas investment keeps expanding, which contributes to the economic and social development of the recipients. Today, China is integrated into the world more than ever before, becoming an active participant, builder and contributor of the international system. Facing the international financial crisis, China has played an important and constructive role as a major economy and responsible country. It is against this backdrop that China-EU relations have witnessed all-dimensional, wide-ranging and multi-level development, and brought tangible benefits to the Chinese and European people.

Ladies and gentlemen,

China needs the world for development. The world needs China for prosperity and stability. According to Chinese chronological tradition, 60 years fulfill a cycle. It symbolizes maturity and success, but it also heralds a new start. Looking ahead, China will unswervingly adhere to the path of peaceful development, uphold the win-win principle in its opening up, follow the guideline of scientific development and promote social harmony. Through its own development, China will contribute to common development of mankind and peace and prosperity of the world.

Distinguished guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,

For decades, many people in the European Union and Belgium have made contributions to the development of China and of the China-EU relations and China-Belgium relations. On behalf of the Chinese Mission to the EU and the Chinese Embassy in Belgium, I would like to express my sincerest gratitude for such effort you have made.

Finally, I wish you share the passion and joy of all the Chinese people for the celebrations in a few days. And may I propose a toast to all of you and to the National Day of China!

Cheers!