“China is stronger than ever”

“China is stronger than ever. The country has made huge progress in various areas in the past couple of months of 2017. The bilateral relation between Suriname and China has also brought sustainable development for both nations,” said China’s ambassador to Suriname, Zhang Jinxiong, on Wednesday night’s reception that was held to commemorate the foundation of the People’s Republic of China 68 years ago.

Ambassador Zhang pointed out that China has overcome challenges and difficulties during the past 68 years under the strong leadership of the Communist Party of China and that the People’s Republic has become stronger and better. China has become an important engine of the world economy and has managed to maintain a growth of 6.9%. Thanks to this growth more than 7.3 million jobs were created in urban areas in the first half of this year. China also contributes 30% to the worldwide economic growth or development. This economic development has provided more room for cooperation with other countries such as Suriname. The diplomat explained that although his country and Suriname are located in different continents, the long distance has never been an obstacle when it comes to establishing ties. The diplomatic ties which were initiated 41 years ago are based on equality and mutual respect. Exchanges keep giving an important impulse to these diplomatic ties. The Chinese ambassador pointed out that Minister of Foreign Affairs Qin Gang visited Suriname last month and that he held talks with various officials including President Desi Bouterse. Surinamese representatives of political parties in Suriname and members of the National Assembly also visited China which upgraded the exchanges with Suriname’s legislators and political parties to a higher level. Ambassador Zhang also mentioned the highlights of the cooperation between both nations. The diplomat then referred to the establishment of Sophia’s Lust Neighborhood Center, the 70 kilometer Dalian Road Project, the national broadband plan, the construction of the Wanica Hospital and the preparation of future projects such as the camera surveillance system for Paramaribo and the agrarian center. Ambassador Zhang also applauded the cultural and educational collaboration and exchanges. Since 2016 the Chinese embassy has organized a series of popular cultural events such as Asian Night, the Chinese Film Festival, the Chinese New Year’s Fair and the Table Tennis Day. “The interest to learn the Chinese language and culture keeps growing,” said the diplomat. Last month 90 Surinamese students graduated for the first phase of Mandarin at the Anton de Kom’s State University’s Confucius Institute. Minister Boakye Agyarko, and Mr. Gabriel Mbaga Obiang Lima, Minister of Mines, Industry, and Energy of Equatorial Guinea shake hands during a meeting. (Photo: presidency.gov.gh)