At the cordial invitation of Tara Gandhi Bhattacharjee, a granddaughter of Mahatma Gandhi and Vice-Chairperson of Gandhi Smriti, Ambassador Zhang Yan paid a visit to Gandhi Smriti on January 14, 2011.

Accompanied by Tara, Ambassador Zhang visited the place where Gandhi spent the last 144 days of his life, his trace found at every corner. In front of the Martyr's Column where Gandhi was assassinated, Ambassador Zhang scattered petals to pay tribute to this great man.

After the visit, Ambassador Zhang held discussion with staff members of Gandhi Smriti. First, he extended his appreciation to the hospitality of Tara and pointed out that, deeply impressed by the visit, he got better understanding of the life and great thoughts of Mahatma Gandhi. Then he briefed them on Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao's recent visit to India and his extensive interactions with Indian people from all walks of life. He said 2011 is "the Year of China-India Exchange", during which the two countries would expand exchanges in various fields and promote mutual understanding between the two peoples. The Chinese Embassy is willing to help enhance exchanges and cooperation between Gandhi Smriti and its counterparts in China.