---

PRC Embassy Celebrates the 48^th Founding Anniversary

PALIKIR, Pohnpei (FSM Information Service): October 3, 1997 - The Ambassador of the People's Republic of China (PRC) to the FSM His Excellency Xu Jun and the Embassy staff, on September 30, 1997, hosted a dinner reception celebrating the 48^th Anniversary of the Founding of the People's Republic of China (PRC), at the Across-the-Street Restaurant.

Among the invited guests were FSM President Jacob Nena, Governor of Pohnpei, Del Pangelinan, State Senator Ambros Senda, Australian Ambassador Perry Head, Charge d'Affaires Yoshikawa from Japan Embassy, Secretary of the Department of External Affairs Epel Ilon, Deputy Secretary Ieske Iehsi, National Planner Bermin Weilbacher, and the Secretary of the Department of Transportation and Communication Lukner Weilbacher.

In his opening remarks, Ambassador Xu expressed his pleasure for the presence of the invited dignitaries who attended the celebration of his country's National Day.

The Ambassador said that during his brief stay since his arrival, he and his wife are impressed by the beauty of FSM and the friendship showed them by your government and people.

China and Micronesia are geographically far apart, but both FSM and PRC are members of the Asia-Pacific Region, both belong to the developing countries and share similar experiences in the past. Now we are engaged in building up our national economies and improving the living standards of our people, he said, adding, "So we are like one big family, like brothers and sisters," Xu said.

"Since the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two countries, relationships have steadily been growing on the basis of equality and mutual benefit," he stated.

The Ambassador also stated that great changes have been taken place in his country especially during the last five years of its 48 years of existence. Changes including deepening reform, opening wider to the outside world, promoting the development and maintaining stability.

Ambassador Xu noted two great events recently, one is the "smooth and successful return of Hong Kong to the embrace of the motherland, the People's Republic of China, on July 1, 1997. The other is the successful convocation of the 15^th National Congress of the Chinese Communist Party, which has formulated the new action program for China and will guide Chinese people to enter the 21st century with victory and stability." The two events will have far reaching significance and impact on China, with the fast economic development, the comprehensive national strength of China is growing, he said, adding that China is growing steadily and ever stronger, which will benefit both China and the rest of the world as well.

"China attaches importance to her relations with Micronesia. That is why I am here to succeed Ambassador Chen only a few days after his departure," said Ambassador Xu, adding, "I will try my best to further advance relations between our two countries in an all around way."

Ambassador Xu concluded his remarks by proposing a toast to the good health of President Jacob Nena and Mrs. Nena, the good health of the distinguished guests present, to the prosperity of FSM and well-being of its people, and the friendship between FSM and China and the two peoples.

FSM President Jacob Nena in response, stated his pleasure in joining Ambassador Xu and Mrs. Ling, and other citizens of PRC, to commemorate the founding of PRC 48 years ago.

I should like, therefore, on this occasion to extend to you, Mr. Ambassador, and other citizens of PRC, and your government the heartfelt congratulations of the people and government of the FSM, on this special day. Our two countries have enjoyed a warm and cordial relationship over the years. May this occasion remind us and further strengthen that relationship for generations to come," Nena stated.

"May I ask you to stand and join me in Proposing a toast," said the President, adding, "To His Excellency President Jiang Zemin, and the people of the People's Republic of China ... for continuing good health and prosperity and a long-lasting relationship. Gambei.

Over 50 people attended the celebration dinner.