Ambassador Cao Xiaolin Celebrates 75th Anniversary of the Founding of the People’s Republic of China

English , Qatar - قطر , Snippets , / Tuesday, October 1st, 2024

 

 

At a grand reception in Doha to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China, Ambassador Cao Xiaolin highlighted the country’s remarkable transformation since 1949. Addressing distinguished guests, including Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Qassim Al Thani, Qatar’s Minister of Commerce and Industry, government officials, ambassadors, and members of the Chinese community, Ambassador Cao emphasized China’s major achievements and the strengthening of its strategic partnership with Qatar.

Ambassador Cao began his address by reflecting on China’s extraordinary progress over the past 75 years under the leadership of the Communist Party of China (CPC). He noted that through the collective efforts of the Chinese people, China has transitioned from poverty to becoming an economic powerhouse, achieving significant milestones in development.

Highlighting China’s economic performance, he reported that from 2013 to 2023, the country maintained an average annual growth rate of 6.1%. In the first half of 2024, China’s GDP reached RMB 61.7 trillion, with a year-on-year growth of 5%. Ambassador Cao stressed the importance of high-quality development, mentioning advances in next-generation information technology, aerospace, and new energy vehicles. He also noted that China recently established the world’s first 6G test network, underscoring the nation’s commitment to technological innovation.

China’s dedication to reform and opening up has been pivotal in its economic success. Since joining the World Trade Organization (WTO) in 2001, China has significantly increased its global trade contributions, accounting for over 30% of the world’s economic growth. The ambassador expressed optimism about foreign investment in China, highlighting continued interest from companies based in the United States, Europe, and Japan.

Ambassador Cao underscored China’s commitment to global development through initiatives such as the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and the Global Development Initiative (GDI). He noted that these efforts have resulted in over 3,000 projects worldwide, mobilizing nearly US$1 trillion in investment and creating approximately 420,000 jobs.

Focusing on Africa, he mentioned that China has helped construct around 100,000 kilometers of roads and 10,000 kilometers of railways, significantly improving infrastructure across the continent. He stated that Chinese companies have created over 1.1 million jobs in Africa and have contributed to poverty alleviation, enhancing access to food, water, and education.

Ambassador Cao highlighted the importance of addressing global challenges, including food security and energy security. The GDI has gained support from over 100 countries and organizations, with substantial progress on more than 200 projects that aim to address pressing issues.

Ambassador Cao emphasized China’s pivotal role in promoting global peace and security through its Global Security Initiative (GSI). He outlined how this initiative addresses complex international conflicts and enhances global security governance. He cited China’s diplomatic efforts in various regions, including its engagement in resolving tensions on the Korean Peninsula and the Iranian nuclear issue.

A notable achievement mentioned was China’s facilitation of reconciliation dialogue among 14 Palestinian factions, which led to the signing of the Beijing Declaration aimed at fostering Palestinian national unity. Ambassador Cao expressed China’s unwavering support for the Palestinian people and commitment to promoting peace in the Middle East.

The ambassador discussed the deepening strategic partnership between China and Qatar, which has flourished under the leadership of President Xi Jinping and Qatar’s Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. He noted that bilateral trade has surged from US $10.6 billion in 2014 to US $24.5 billion in 2023. China has become Qatar’s largest trading partner and a primary source of liquefied natural gas (LNG).

Ambassador Cao emphasized the significance of infrastructure and high-tech collaboration, which includes the deployment of electric vehicles in Qatar and recent contracts for LNG vessels between Chinese and Qatari companies. He highlighted Qatar’s crucial role in ensuring China’s energy security through its LNG exports.

People-to-people exchanges have also intensified, with increasing numbers of Qatari students learning Chinese and participating in cultural initiatives. The arrival of giant pandas Suhail and Thuraya in Qatar served as a symbol of the growing friendship between the two nations. Notably, the number of Chinese tourists visiting Qatar reached 56,000 in 2023, representing a remarkable increase in tourism.

Ambassador Cao emphasized China’s dedication to fostering cultural exchange through the Global Civilization Initiative (GCI), which promotes mutual respect and dialogue among diverse cultures. He pointed out China’s efforts in enhancing people-to-people diplomacy, including hosting various international conferences and cultural festivals.

The establishment of approximately 3,000 sister city partnerships worldwide was highlighted as a means of promoting cooperation across various sectors. The ambassador expressed optimism about further enhancing cultural ties with Qatar, paving the way for greater understanding and collaboration between the two nations.

In closing, Ambassador Cao conveyed his confidence in the future of China-Qatar relations, describing the past decade as a “golden decade” of development and cooperation. He reaffirmed China’s commitment to deepening its strategic partnership with Qatar, emphasizing shared goals for prosperity and global peace.

He extended his best wishes for the continued success of both nations, stating that China and Qatar will continue to work together to enhance cooperation across all sectors. With a focus on mutual development and friendship, Ambassador Cao concluded by expressing hope for a bright future for both countries.