Remarks by Chinese Ambassador to Guyana Yang Yang at the Premier Performance of Chinese Acrobatic Troupe’s Tour in Guyana

Good evening!

On this warm and celebratory evening, we are gathered here for a cultural feast jointly presented by Chinese and Guyanese artists. Together, we celebrate the 60th anniversary of Guyana's independence. On this special occasion, on behalf of the Chinese Embassy in Guyana, I wish to extend our most sincere and warm congratulations to President Ali, to all ministers, and to the people of Guyana.

For sixty years, we have stood together through thick and thin. China has firmly supported Guyana's cause of independence from the very beginning. 

Guyana's independence is a shining chapter in the history of national liberation in Latin America and the Caribbean. Looking back to 1966, after years of tireless struggle, the people of Guyana formally declared national independence. China has always supported Guyana's independence. We were also among the first countries to recognize Guyana and send our congratulations. 

We also will not forget that in 1971, when the UN General Assembly voted on Resolution 2758 on the restoration of China's lawful seat in the United Nations, Guyana cast a precious vote in support of China. This mutual support at a decisive moment in history laid a solid and unshakable foundation for the deep friendship between China and Guyana.

For sixty years, we have advanced practical cooperation across many fields. As an old friend and a good partner of Guyana, China is truly honored to be a witness and contributor to Guyana's remarkable journey over the past 60 years. 

Since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1972, China and Guyana have always treated each other with respect and as equals. In recent years, under the strategic guidance of our two heads of state, China-Guyana relations have moved into a fast lane. 

We are pleased to see hospitals, bridges, parks, and other practical cooperation projects being put into place one after another. They have brought in capital, technology, and talent. They have created thousands of jobs. They have also made life easier for ordinary people. 

These achievements are a vivid reflection of our joint efforts to advance the five major programs. They are also a living example of building a China-Guyana community with a shared future.

For sixty years, we have remained close connected, building a lasting friendship through cultural exchanges. The foundation of state-to-state relations lies in friendship between the people.

As President Ali said at the commissioning of the China-Guyana Friendship Park, China-Guyana relations are rooted in history and in the people. From the arrival of Chinese forebears 173 years ago to this "land of many waters," where they gradually became one of Guyana's six peoples, to the close cooperation we see today in every field, the bond of China-Guyana friendship has never been broken. It has only grown stronger with time.

In recent years, more and more Guyanese friends have been drawn to the Chinese culture. Many have begun learning Chinese, practicing Chinese characters, and appreciating Chinese traditions.

Acrobatics are a treasured part of Chinese culture. They are rich in Chinese elements and national charm, and they are loved by people in China and around the world. This time, we have especially invited the world-renowned Hebei Acrobatic Troupe to perform in Guyana, so that we may celebrate Guyana's 60th anniversary of independence together with our Guyanese friends.

If the China-Guyana Friendship Park was China's first gift to Guyana's 60th anniversary of independence - a gift that reflects cooperation and development - then the tour of the Hebei Acrobatic Troupe will be China's second special gift for this milestone. It will serve as a bridge of culture and art, and further deepen the friendship between our two peoples.

Ladies and Gentlemen, dear friends:

Guyana calls this 60th anniversary celebration a Diamond Jubilee. It symbolizes that the achievements of independence are as lasting and precious as a diamond. In Chinese culture, the 60th year is called a jiazi, a complete cycle. It represents fulfillment and renewal.

Whether "Diamond Jubilee" or "jiazi," both speak to the extraordinary weight of 60 years--greater prosperity and greater resilience.

Here, I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited and the Association of Chinese Enterprises in Guyana for their generous support and strong sponsorship of this event. I'd also like to thank His Excellency President Ali and the Government of Guyana for its thoughtful arrangements and excellent coordination, which have made this performance possible.

To conclude, I wish Guyana will continue to be full of prosperity and strength. I wish the friendship between China and Guyana last forever. And I wish tonight's performance every success.