On the occasion of China's 58th National Day, H.E.Zhong Jianhua, Ambassador of the People's Republic of China to the Republic of South Africa, and Mme.Lu Qingjiang held a grand National Day reception a in Pretoria on October 1st.

Ambassador Zhong Jianhua delivered a speech	Hon. Ms.Geraldine Fraser-Moleketi delivered a keynote speech

During his speech, Ambassador Zhong Jianhua reviewed the achievements that have been made since China adopted the refrom and opening up policy and introduced China's economic and social development to the guests. He also spoke highly of the China-South Africa bilateral relations. He noted that since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1998, the bilateral relations have made extensive and in-depth progress in various fields and levels. During the first half of 2007, export from SA to China grew 195% compared with the same period of last year. The two-way investment is also increasing. Enterprises from both countries are benefiting from the growing trade relations. Several days ago, Hon. Deputy President Mlambo-Ngcuka paid a successful vist to China and co-chaired the 3rd BNC with Chinese Deputy Preisdent Zeng Qinghong. The Ambassador also said that the year of 2008 marks the 10th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two countries. China and South Africa will work together to hold celebrations and make efforts in pushing the strategic partnership to a new height.

Ambassador Zhong also introducd representatives of Chinese enterprises who have made significant contributions to promoting the bilateral trade and investment relations to guests present at the reception.

Ambassador Zhong Jianhua and Hon.Ms. Geraldine Fraser-Moleketi proposed a toast

Hon. Geradine Fraser-Moleketi, Minister of Public Service and Administration of SA attended the reception as the representative of the SA government and made a keynote speech. During her speech, she expressed South Africa's satisfaction with the progress made in the bilateral relations and labeled China as a model for other developing countries in terms of China's consistent record of development successess. She also highly praised China's efforts in reforming the international political and ecnomic order.

Hon. Mr. Ntopile Kganyago, Deputy Minister of Pulic works of SA together with over 400 foreign envoys, SA government officials, representatives of local Chinese communities and celebrities are present at the reception.