As the new year is approaching, on behalf of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the Republic of Kiribati, I would like to extend warm greetings to Kiribati friends from all walks of life and Chinese compatriots in Kiribati.
This year, facing the unexpected challenge of COVID-19, China forged ahead sturdily. Under the strong leadership of the central committee of the Communist Party of China with President Xi Jinping at its core, Chinese government led the whole nation to unite as one and prevail in the battles against the COVID-19 and poverty alleviation. We have overcome the devastating impacts of COVID-19 and succeeded in lifting all rural residents falling below China’s current poverty line out of poverty, eliminating absolute poverty and regional poverty on the whole. China has secured decisive achievements in completing the building of a moderately prosperous society, realizing the dream of Chinese nation for thousands years.
This year, newly resumed China-Kiribati relations moved forward steadily. President Maamau paid a successful state visit to China and jointly blueprinted the future development of our bilateral relations with President Xi Jinping. Fruitful outcomes were achieved during this visit. Since the resumption of China-Kiribati relations, both countries stood side by side to fight against COVID-19, promote practical cooperation in various fields and further strengthen our traditional friendship, bringing tangible benefits to the two peoples. As the first Chinese Ambassador to Kiribati since the resumption, I have the honor to get acquainted with many Kiribati friends and visit one third of Kiribati outer islands. I was deeply impressed by the friendly people, unique tradition and culture, cooperation and development potentials, etc.
Next year is the 100th anniversary of the founding of CPC, the starting year of the 14th five-year plan for China’s national development. China and Kiribati relations will embrace more opportunities in 2021. Next year, China will continue to push forward reform and development, engage with the world in a open and responsible way and forge ahead determinedly towards the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation. Time and tide wait for no man. The Embassy is ready to work with the Kiribati friends to achieve new progress in all aspects of our relations, continue to deepen friendship between our peoples and make contribution to the peace and development of the pacific region and beyond.
Wish China and Kiribati peace, health and prosperity! Wish China-Kiribati relations a even brighter future! Wish Kiribati friends and Chinese compatriots in Kiribati a happy new year and all the best!
Te Mauri te Raoi ao te Tabomoa!
Ambassador TANG Songgen
Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Kiribati