Chinese Ambassador Zhou Yuxiao, on last Friday, February 1, 2008, hosted a reception for the Chinese Community in Liberia to observe the coming Spring Festival, which is the most important festival in China and marks the beginning of the Chinese Lunar New Year.

In his speech, Amb. Zhou extended his warmest greetings to all the participants and their families. He briefed the Chinese Community about the new progress China has made in the past year. According to him, China's GDP reached 24.7 trillion RMB Yuan(about 3.4 trillion USD), with a growth rate of 11.4%, ranking fourth in the world; its foreign trade exceeded 2 trillion USD, ranking third; its foreign exchange reserve was well over 1.5 trillion USD, firmly securing the first place; foreign direct investment in China reached 74.8 billion USD, second only to the U.S. He also expressed his satisfaction over the development of bilateral relations.

Amb. Zhou also read a written message from Madam President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf to the celebration of the Chinese Spring Festival. In her message, President Sirleaf congratulated China on its achievements in 2007 and wished it a prosperous 2008. She thanked the Chinese Community, especially the Chinese peace keepers, aid and construction workers for adding value to Liberia's rebuilding efforts, laying the foundation for peace, security and economic renewal. She also expressed sorrow for the death of Ms. Jiang Chongyu of the Chinese Bamboo and Rattan Weaving Team and promised that justice will be done. She expressed the hope that in the year of Rat, which means hard work and renewal, the two countries will move forward through friendship and cooperation to continued peace, happiness and prosperity.

The program was well attended by Chinese peacekeepers, aid workers, investors and business people.