On 5th February 2010, Mdm. Liao Juhua, the Chinese Consul General in Auckland held a reception in celebration of the 2010 Chinese New Year. The full text of Mdm. Liao’s remarks at the reception is as follows:

Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,

Good evening! On the occasion of the Chinese Spring Festival, and on behalf of the Chinese Consulate-General in Auckland, I’d like to extend my best wishes to everyone here, and to all the Chinese citizen, including Chinese students, and staffs of the China state owned companies within our consular area.

We are here to welcome the Chinese New Year of Tiger in a fresh way, by holding this greeting gathering with snacks and cultural performances. I’d like to thank the Manukau City Council and TelstraClear Pacific Events Centre for providing us with this venue. My appreciation also goes to Mr. Preston Zhang, President of the Asia Pacific Culture Connection Centre and the local Chinese Communities for their long-time preparations to make this event happened.

The year of 2009 marked the 60th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China. Great achievements have been made in China’s reform and socialist modernization. People’s living standard continued to improve; social stability and harmony were well maintained. The Chinese people tackled the severe international financial crisis with confidence and successfully achieved a GDP growth of 8.7%, which was a contribution to the recovery of the global economy.

In 2009, China-New Zealand relations developed very fast. Prime Minister John Key’s visit to China, and Vice-premier Li Keqiang’s visit to New Zealand had further enhanced cooperations between our two countries.

2010 is a crucial year not only for the global economic recovery and international system reform, but also for China to develop economy and keep stability. The Shanghai World Expo with the theme “Better city, Better life” will be held from 1st May to 31st October in Shanghai. Prime Minister John Key will head a delegation to the Expo. I believe that it will be a good opportunity to demonstrate the progress of human civilization, and promote the cooperations worldwide. We sincerely welcome all of you to participate with us in that big event.

2010 is the year of Tiger according to the Chinese lunar calendar. Tiger is said to be the king of all animals. It is a symbol of being strong and majestic. I am convinced that the year of Tiger will bring all of us good luck.

Finally, I wish you a good health and happiness in the New Year. Thank you and have a good evening.