"China may get out of economic crisis first and achieve an 8% of growth this year", said the newly appointed Chinese Ambassador to Malta, Mr. Zhang Keyuan, at a reception at Hotel Excelsior in Floriana on the eve of the 60th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China.  

Mr. Zhang also reiterated China's stand on promoting the world economic recovery, reforming the international financial system, and achieving balanced and sustainable growth, and that in curbing the climate change, China will intensify efforts to conserve energy and improve energy efficiency, and endeavor to cut carbon dioxide emissions per unit of GDP by a "notable margin" by 2020 from the 2005 level.

Mr. Zhang highlighted the cordial relations between China and Malta and the remarkable growth of bilateral trade in both 2008 and 2009. He looked forward in his tour of duty to furthering cooperation in the fields of renewable energy and Malta's attendance of the 2010 Shanghai Expo.

In his respond, President Abela commended China's ambitious and unparalleled transformation which has both instilled hope and trust amongst all levels of Chinese society and contributed to a praiseworthy leading and influential role in global affairs. The President especially acknowledged China's constructive engagement on the issue of Climate Change and its marked involvement in helping the African continent.

Citing as a 'special relationship founded on mutual respect and trust' between Malta and China, the President noted the significant role played by the Chinese Cultural Centre (CCC) which in recent years has helped promote mutual understanding of the two nations.

President Abela assured Malta's efforts to develop even further the excellent bilateral relations and also its commitments to contribute toward the enhancement of relations between China and the EU. He expressed his wish that the two countries would continue their active participation and close cooperation in other world fora in the interest of multilateralism. The president also wished the 2010 Shanghai World Expo a great success.

At the reception, President Abela, the First Lady, Honorable Prime Minister Lawrence and Mrs. Gonzi and Ambassador Zhang also presented certificates and awards to winners of the 3rd Maltese Children Drawing Competition organized by the CCC.

The reception was also attended by Chief Justice Vincent De Gaetano, Opposition Leader Joseph Muscat, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minster Tonio Borg. More than 400 guests attended the reception.

The reception was highlighted with an exciting performance by The Red Poppy Ladies Percussion from Beijing and a spectacular fireworks displays outside the Hotel in the Bay.