各位华人华侨朋友,大家晚上好!在中国的牛年春节即将来临之际,我谨代表中国驻印度大使馆热烈欢迎大家前来参加这个聚会.

Distinguished guests,

2008 has been an extraordinary year to China. The Chinese people overcame unparalleled challenges such as Sichuan earthquake and scored remarkable achievements. The Beijing Olympic Games stunned the world and won glory for the Chinese nation. The successful launch of spaceship Shenzhou VII and the space-walk of a Chinese astronaut is another milestone in the development of Chinese science and technology.

2008 marks the 30th anniversary of China's reform and opening up. The past three decades has brought about historic changes to China. China has maintained a high growth rate of 9.8% annually. Today China's economy ranks the fourth largest in the world. The overall national strength has been further strengthened. The living standard of the Chinese people has been greatly improved. The international status of China has been significantly elevated. Furthermore, China's development also contributes greatly to the world by serving as an engine of growth of the global economy. The facts have proven that the reform and opening up policy initiated by Mr. Deng Xiaoping is serving the fundamental interests of Chinese people. The 17th National Congress of Chinese Communist Party has reaffirmed that China will further deepen its reform and opening up process.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

In 2008, encouraging developments have taken place across the Taiwan Straits as well. The two sides have started direct air and sea transportation and postal services, ending a 59-year ban on such links. The Chinese government adheres to the One China principle and the basic principles of peaceful reunification, and works for the well-being of Chinese compatriots on both sides of Taiwan Straits, seeks peace for the Taiwan Straits region and safeguards the fundamental interests of the Chinese nation.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

In 2008, the China-India relations have witnessed a rapid progress in all aspects. Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh visited China in early 2008. Two countries signed of A Shared Vision for the 21st Century, further advancing our strategic partnership. The bilateral economic and trade cooperation is developing in fast pace. The two-way trade volume reached US$55 billion in 2008, yielding win-win results to both countries. People-to-people exchanges are on steady increase. Interactions between the two armies, exchanges and cooperation in cultural, science and technology and tourist fields are expanding rapidly. In the international and regional affairs, both sides have maintained close consultation and coordination, working together to safeguard the interests of the developing countries.

I firmly believe that an ever-growing relationship between China and India will bring happiness and prosperity to both peoples and make due contribution to the progress of the entire humanity.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

The progress China has made over the last year and the growth of China-India relations could not be achieved without the valuable support of all Chinese compatriots all over the world, including those in India. We thank you for your support during the torch relay in New Delhi and the Olympic Games in Beijing. We are deeply touched by your passion and love exemplified by your donations for the relieve work of Sichuan earthquake. We are also thankful to the contributions you have made to promote the friendly relations between China and India.

Ladies and gentlemen,

2009 is the year of bull. It is a very auspicious year for the Chinese people. China is going to celebrate the 60 anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic. Looking ahead, we are confident that under the leadership with President Hu Jintao as the General Secretary of the Central Committee of CPC, we will march victoriously to achieve new progress on the way to building a moderately prosperous society, for the welfare of the Chinese people and the peace and prosperity of the world.

Wish you and your family a happy and prosperous new year, and every success in your endeavors!

现在我提议,为在座的各位华人华侨以及各位同胞身体健康干杯! 祝大家牛年大吉,阖家幸福,生意兴隆,事业发达!为我们伟大的祖国繁荣昌盛干杯!

(18 Jan. 2009)