The New Zealand Ambassador to China Clare Fearnley delivers a welcome speech. Photo: Yin Yeping/GT

The New Zealand Embassy held a Kiwi-style BBQ reception hosted by the New Zealand Ambassador to China Clare Fearnley in a relaxing and joyful atmosphere on Thursday, drawing the participation of many Chinese media representatives to take a closer look at New Zealand's culture and cuisine. The event was also to offer the media an opportunity to see the newly constructed embassy.

In the welcoming speech by Fearnley, she talked about the growing ties in bilateral relations in varied sectors and expressed her expectation for the sustainable development in future cooperation between the two countires. The ambassador wishes to have more Chinese people visit New Zealand to get to know more about the diverse culture that the country has to offer. 

Fresh New Zealand salmon was presented and served in a local way, together with a variety of wines. The ambassador introduced diplomats to the audience at the embassy who, in return, introduced themselves fluently in Chinese language. The ambassador also interpreted Maori culture,  an integral part of New Zealand's traditional culture, and the singers from New Zealand presented typical Maori songs to the audience.