The Honorable VanRompuy, Prime Minister of Belgium,

Respected Bernard Dewit, Chairman of BCECC,

Friends, Ladies and Gentlemen,

Today, we are joyfully gathered here to celebrate the 60th anniversary of my country, the People's Republic of China. On behalf of the Chinese embassy and all my fellow countrymen at present, I want to thank the BCECC for arranging a concert of classical music to mark this auspicious occasion and all the Belgian friends for their gracious presence.

A few weeks ago, the Chinese people celebrated their National Day with fanfare and a spectacular gala party in Beijing. Many of you may have already watched the jubilee on live television or DVD.

Much has been said about China's achievements over the 60 years. They are nothing short of miraculous. By moving forward steadily at an average annual growth rate of 9%, the world's most populous country has become the world's third largest economy, accounting for 8% of the global GDP and playing the role of powerful engine for global growth in the time of financial and economic crisis.

Here I would like just to make two observations.

The first point is that China is grateful profoundly for the sympathy, understanding and support it has received during its course of development, reform and modernization from the international community, Belgium included. It would have been impossible for China to succeed behind closed doors or accomplish much without the help of its friends around the world. While ready to play a bigger role in world affairs, China will, as always, strive to promote peace, friendship, cooperation and win-win relations with the rest of the world.

Prime Minister of Belgium, Mr. VanRompuy talked with Ambassador Zhang

The other point I want to make is that we are now at the crossroads. The future of mankind hinges a lot more on our ability to work together, as we take on severe challenges such as climate change. China, a developing country that will remain so for a long time to come, has made up its mind to pursue a new approach to development. This approach, explained in detail by President Hu Jintao at the UN Conference on Climate Change last September, has been warmly received internationally. During the recent successful visit to Belgium by Vice-President Xi Jinping, our two counties earnestly compared notes on what could be done in the future. It is my hope that Belgium, which will soon take over as EU presidency and host for the 8th ASEM, may join us in tackling the difficult issues with vision and partnership.

Peace and development in the world require that countries and civilizations strengthen their dialogue and exchanges. Europalia is such a wonderful platform to this end. We are two weeks into the event, and three more months of colorful shows are yet to come. I am confident that my Belgian friends and others from around the Europe will gain deeper understanding of China as a result of these cultural events.

May I conclude by thanking BCECC again and in particular, our conductor, Eric Lederhandler, for bringing us this great show! I know Henri, 李德汉, a lot. I am always full of respect for your love of China and your dedication to stronger ties between the two countries.

I wish the concert a complete success. Thank you.