On April 11, Political Counselor, Qu Guangzhou met with the delegation led by Ai Duo, Director of the China Soong Ching Ling Foundation Research Center and of the Former Residence of the Soong Ching ling Management Center at the Chinese Embassy in New Zealand. The delegation came to New Zealand to organize the commemorative activities of Rewi Alley. Also present at the meeting were Director of the Cultural Section, Shen Ming; Director of the Consular Section, Wang Dong; and the Chairperson of the Board of New Zealand Charitable Association Inc., Penghang Yingping.

First of all, Counselor Qu Guangzhou extended his warm welcome to the visiting delegation. Counselor Qu noted that China – New Zealand relations are currently at their best level in history. Premier Li Keqiang’s visit to New Zealand last month has promoted bilateral relations and pragmatic cooperation in various fields to a new height. This year marks the 45th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and New Zealand; and is also the 120th anniversary of the birth of Rewi Alley, an old friend of the Chinese people; the 90th anniversary of his first arrival in China; and the 30th anniversary of his death. The commemorative activities organized by the Soong Ching Ling Foundation in New Zealand this year have played a positive role in improving bilateral relations by further strengthening non-governmental exchanges between the two countries and deepening friendship between the two peoples.

Director Ai Duo noted that the activities held in Christchurch, including the artifacts and photo exhibition of Soong Ching Ling and Rewi Alley - Deep Friendship over Seventy Years between China and New Zealand, have received great support from the Chinese Embassy, the Chinese Consulate General in Christchurch, the City Council of Christchurch and the New Zealand China Friendship Society Inc. (NZCFS). The activities were very successful with good responses from the local mainstream society. The activities are of a positive significance in the promotion of friendship between the two countries and the introduction of Chinese culture to New Zealand.