On September 24, 2008, Chinese Embassy in Malta held reception to mark the 59th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China at Grand Hotel Excelsior in Floriana. President Edward Fenech Adami, the Chief Justice Dr. Vincent A. De Gaetano and Honourable Speaker Louis Galea were present among a host of 400 distinguished guests including cabinet members, heads of the diplomatic missions, high officials, businessmen and local celebrities.

Ambassador Chai Xi Delivering Speech

Addressing the reception, Ambassador Chai Xi said, the year 2008 was very special to China. It marks the 30th anniversary of China’s reform and opening up, a historic journey that has transited China from a highly centralized planned economy to a robust socialist market economy, and from a closed and semi-closed country to one that fully embraces the world. It is also special because China has both experienced profound grief and joy in the same year. China has overcome a massive storm and disastrous earthquake and successfully staged an unforgettable Olympics. Through these Games, the world learned more about China, and China learned more about the world.

Speaking highly of the importance of the Sino-EU relation, Ambassador Chai went on to point out, as a traditional friendly country and an EU member, Malta was regarded one of China’s best friends in Europe, "long term friendship, mutual respect, mutual beneficial cooperation and common development" featuring the bilateral relationship.

President Adami Delivering Speech

In responding, President Adami recalled pleasantly his various visits to China and commended the profound changes brought about to China through past 30 years by successful adoption of the socialist market economy. Referring as a very very close relationship which strengthened in the past to the mutual benefits, President Adami talked in confidence for ever increasing bilateral relations in future. President Adami also lavished praises on the traditional Chinese music performance and Taiji dance on the reception admiring Chinese culture as a very good way of communicating.

The Reception also featured a prize awarding ceremony for the Maltese students in the painting competition themed on Beijing Olympics.