Local officials from across the American continents spoke highly of China's development achievements as they attended National Day receptions held on Thursday by Chinese consulates ahead of the 75th founding anniversary of the People's Republic of China (PRC).
In Canada, the event hosted by the Chinese Consulate General in Toronto featured captivating performances and an exhibition of traditional Chinese folk arts such as paper-cutting and dough modeling. Also on Thursday, guests at a reception in Calgary were invited to watch an exhibition that included photos and videos showcasing China's accomplishments in social and economic development.
Canadian local officials and lawmakers said they have paid close attention to China's development as well as the country's increasing contributions to the world.
"Looking around and taking a look at all the infrastructure that's been developed, and a lot of growth when it comes to infrastructure and science, but still having the strong cultural elements, the performing arts, the visual arts, so I think it's great to be able to have that broad width of development and progress," said Rebecca Alty, Mayor of Yellowknife, capital of Canada's Northwest Territories.
"I wish you much prosperity and happiness and continued wonderful and collaborative relationship between China and Canada. Thank you so much for all of your contributions in terms of everything that you offer to the world," said Lizette Tejada, Member of the Legislative Assembly of Alberta for Calgary-Klein.
The event in Guayaquil, Ecuador drew more than 710 people from all walks of life in the consular district, including overseas Chinese, representatives from Chinese-funded institutions, and volunteer Chinese teachers. The atmosphere was electric when performers from the two countries delivered a dazzling range of cultural and artistic shows.
Attendees said that the Ecuador-China Free Trade Agreement brings broad prospects for bilateral trade and investment and benefits people of both countries, as both sides eye deeper cooperation in the future.
As part of the celebrations for PRC's 75th birthday, drum dance, martial arts, samba dance and a solo performance of a Chinese string instrument called pipa wowed guests at a reception on Thursday night in Sao Paulo, Brazil.
"After 75 years of efforts, China has become a world power and a leader in technological innovation. At the same time, China has always emphasized the preservation of its own cultural traditions, which is crucial to maintaining national identity," said Marilia Marton, Sao Paulo State Secretary for Culture, Creative Economy and Industries while sending China her congratulations.
China's National Day falls on Oct. 1.
Int’l officials laud China’s development achievements at National Day reception events
