Chinese diplomats celebrate National Day

Chinese diplomatic services around the globe have held receptions in honor of National Day.

On Sunday night, a glamorous Chinese cultural performance was staged in Washington. It's main theme was the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games. Along with splendid performances from hundreds of Chinese dancers and singers, American friends also showed off their aptitude for tai chi and martial arts.

A few days before the gala, Chinese ambassador to the United States, Zhou Wenzhong, hosted an embassy banquet. There, Zhou said China's development is indispensable to the world.

Over 700 guests attended, including American Deputy Secretary of State, John Negroponte. He said the United States is willing to develop powerful and constructive ties with China. He said the US values Sino-American relations, saying they play an important role in the Asian-Pacific region and the world as a whole.

Chinese diplomats in Toronto celebrated with Canadian officials. Consul General Zhu Taoying gave a speech, introducing China's economic and social achievements and its preparations for the Beijing Olympics Games. She also thanked those who have shown support for the Games.

Chinese embassies in Egypt and South Africa also graced the day of honor with dinner parties and speeches.

Chinese Ambassador to Egypt, Wu Sike, said Sino-Egyptian strategic cooperation has been consolidated and deepened over the past year. More than 700 guests came to the reception at the Chinese embassy in Cairo.

In South Africa's largest city, Johannesburg, the Chinese Consul General presented China's economic and social developments since the "opening-up and reform" policy was enacted 29 year ago. The reception was attended by South African government officials.