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Ashraf AboArafe
In a warm evening of diplomatic camaraderie and cultural resonance, Chinese Ambassador Liao Liqiang delivered a powerful address at a reception hosted by the Egypt-China Friendship Association in Cairo, celebrating the enduring partnership and mutual trust that have bound the two nations for nearly seven decades.
The event was attended by Dr. Ibrahim Saber, Governor of Cairo; Ambassador Abubakr Hefny, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs; and Ambassador Ali Hefny, Vice President of the Egypt-China Friendship Association, among other distinguished diplomats and guests.
Ambassador Liao opened his remarks by expressing heartfelt gratitude to the Association for its thoughtful organization and to Ambassador Ali Hefny for his “warm and sincere words” on behalf of Ambassador Ahmed Wali, President of the Association.
China’s Journey: From Struggle to Global Strength
Reflecting on China’s transformative journey, Ambassador Liao said that since the founding of the People’s Republic of China 76 years ago, the Communist Party of China has led the nation from poverty and weakness to become the world’s second-largest economy and a leading industrial power.
He emphasized that under the 14th Five-Year Plan, China’s economy is projected to expand by more than 35 trillion yuan, accounting for one-third of global economic growth. This, he said, represents the “Chinese path to modernization”—a model that contributes not only to national prosperity but also to the advancement of humanity.
Beijing’s Message: Confidence Amid Global Turbulence
Ambassador Liao highlighted the outcomes of the Fourth Plenary Session of the 20th CPC Central Committee, which charted the blueprint for China’s next phase of modernization and reaffirmed Beijing’s commitment to high-level opening-up and mutual development.
“In the face of headwinds,” he noted, “China remains the anchor of global growth.”
The ambassador said that the new Five-Year Plan sends a positive signal: China is ready to share development opportunities with the world, providing “certainty and positive energy” amid international instability.
A Voice for Peace and Justice
Recalling China’s historic role in defeating fascism 80 years ago, Liao reaffirmed that China continues to stand for peace, stability, and progress. He underscored the country’s unwavering adherence to peaceful development and international law, noting that China remains a force for justice and stability on the world stage.
The ambassador also mentioned China’s new law designating October 25 as the ‘Commemoration Day for the Recovery of Taiwan,’ symbolizing China’s commitment to defending national sovereignty and the One-China Principle. He praised Egypt’s steadfast support for this principle and the Association’s statement rejecting any distortion of UN Resolution 2758, calling it “a strong gesture of friendship and respect for international consensus.”
Global Governance and Shared Futures
Addressing the need for reforming global governance, Ambassador Liao pointed to President Xi Jinping’s Global Governance Initiative, complementing China’s Belt and Road, Global Development, Global Security, and Global Civilization initiatives.
“These initiatives,” he said, “uphold equality, respect for sovereignty, multilateralism, and people-centered cooperation.” China, he added, “is committed to walking hand-in-hand with all progressive forces to build a shared future for humanity.”
Egypt–China: A Model for South–South Cooperation
Ambassador Liao described the bilateral relationship as “a model of South–South cooperation,” emphasizing that under the strategic guidance of President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and President Xi Jinping, both nations have achieved fruitful cooperation across economic, cultural, and political spheres.
He commended Egypt’s efforts to mediate a ceasefire in Gaza, calling for “the utmost urgency” in ending hostilities and reaffirming China’s firm support for the Two-State Solution and the principle of “Palestine for the Palestinians.”
“China stands ready to work with Egypt and the international community,” he declared, “to promote a comprehensive, just, and lasting solution to the Palestinian question and to realize peace in the Middle East.”
Looking Ahead: A Milestone Year of Friendship
As 2026 approaches, marking the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Egypt, Ambassador Liao revealed that China will also host the Second China–Arab Summit.
“China,” he said, “looks forward to deepening strategic trust, expanding practical cooperation, and elevating the comprehensive strategic partnership to new heights — for the benefit of both peoples.”
He concluded his remarks with a warm wish:
“I wish you all good health, happiness, and continued success. Thank you!”
