30 August, 2012　　

　　Hon.　　

　　Members of Diplomatic Corps,　　

　　Distinguished guests and friends,　　

　　Good afternoon. Thank you very much for attending this reception, which marks my presentation of credentials. 　　

　　I arrived in Harare on July 18. Exactly one week ago, I had the honor to present my credentials to H.E. President Mugabe. Zimbabwe is my fourth posting in Africa. My previous one was in Ethiopia. I was the ambassador of China to Ethiopia from 2004 to 2008. Before that, I worked in South Africa from 1994 to 1998. My first post was in Uganda. It was 27 years ago, and I started my diplomatic career there. So you may find out that up to now my diplomatic career was all spent in Africa. I consider myself and was considered by my colleagues a half African.　　

　　I have been to Zimbabwe a couple of times for short stay some years ago. I fell in love at that time with this beautiful land and its friendly people. I feel very honored and happy to be posted here as the Chinese ambassador. Last week, when I met with H.E President Mugabe, He spoke very highly of the relationship between Zimbabwe and China. He is absolutely right. 　　

　　China and Zimbabwe enjoy a profound traditional friendship. In the 1960s, the Chinese Government and people firmly supported the Zimbabwean people in their fight for national liberation. Our two countries established diplomatic relations on the very day of Zimbabwe’s independence. In the 32 years since then, our friendship has remained as vigorous as ever. The two countries have enjoyed frequent high-level visits, enhanced political mutual trust, and ever deepening cooperation in such fields as economic development, culture, education, health and military affairs, as well as close consultation and coordination in international and regional affairs. The Chinese side highly appreciates Zimbabwe’s firm commitment to the One-China Policy and its support of China’s great cause of reunification. The Chinese Government and people value the traditional friendship with Zimbabwe, and view Zimbabwe as a trustworthy friend and important partner. China is ready to work with Zimbabwe to further strengthen the existing friendly relations and cooperation so as to bring more benefits to the two peoples.

　　Ladies and Gentlemen,　　

　　As the 11^th Chinese Ambassador to Zimbabwe, I am keenly aware of my responsibilities. I will do my utmost to fulfill my duties. I also wish to take this opportunity to thank all of you present today for your strong support to the Chinese Embassy. I sincerely hope that I can continue to count on your generous support in the years ahead. I look forward to working with you to take the China-Zimbabwe relationship to a new height.　　

　　Thank you.