On 18 February, Ambassador Wang Xiaolong attended the 2024 Chinese New Year Banquet organized by NZCFS Wellington Branch and delivered a speech. Over 100 guests joined the event, including NZCFS National President Chris Lipscombe, Hon MP Ginny Anderson, Deputy Mayor of Wellington Laurie Foon, friends from all walks of life and representatives from the Chinese community. 

Photo by Vicky Lu

Ambassador Wang expressed his best Spring Festival wishes for the Year of the Dragon, and said that in the past year, China-New Zealand relationship has maintained sound and steady development in areas such as high-level visits, trade and economic cooperation, and people-to-people exchanges, thanks to the strategic guidance of leaders from both sides and the strong support from the two peoples. Ambassador Wang stressed the important role of people-to-people connections in China-New Zealand relations, acknowledging the long-term commitment of NZCFS to carrying forward the spirit of Rewi Alley, and promoting the friendship between China and New Zealand. He said that the Embassy is ready to work with NZCFS to add new vitality and dynamism to China-New Zealand friendship in the new era.

President Chris Lipscombe said that NZCFS will continue to promote people-to-people exchanges between China and New Zealand and be a strong supporter and builder of friendship between the two countries. Other guests also shared their stories about China and their interest in Chinese culture, looking forward to a brighter future for China-New Zealand relations.

Photo by Mi Liqin