Diplomatic envoys to China view pictures of Chaoyang district at the 2023 reception in honor of foreign diplomatic missions to China on November 24, 2023 Photo: Courtesy of the organizer

The 2023 reception in honor of foreign diplomatic missions to China was held in Beijing on November 24. Yin Li, Party secretary of Beijing delivered a speech at the opening ceremony of the reception, and envoys from 101 diplomatic missions to China and representatives of international organizations gathered at the "Ice Belt" of National Speed Skating Oval. 

Yin, in his address, noted that Beijing as the capital of China, is also known as a prominent historical and cultural city in the world. Beijing is a significant center for international exchanges and maintains close links with the international community as well. With improved functions, Beijing will provide convenience and support for diplomatic missions in China and the representatives of international organizations, he underscored. 

Elia George Kaiyamo, Ambassador of Namibia to China gave a speech on behalf of diplomatic missions in China. Ambassador Kaiyamo highlighted Beijing's high safety standards and good governance, noting that the city is worth learning from by other countries.  

Leonardo Kam, Ambassador of Panama to China, also commended the huge development of Beijing. "The Chaoyang Liangma River is totally different from what it used to be when I lived here. Its waterfront has taken a very international style. If I have the opportunity, I take my family to Liangma River and experience the charm of the international living room." 

Ambassador Kam added, "I am also very happy to taste the authentic Panamanian coffee in Chaoyang. I learned that the Beijing International Coffee Trading Center has settled in Chaoyang. I sincerely invite everyone to visit Panama and its local coffee plantation. I look forward to more cooperation opportunities."

Diplomatic missions to China and representatives of international organizations interacted with robots and experienced ice skating, taking a test drive in a driverless car, and enjoying a figure skating performance.

Belgian Counselor to China Johan Van Hove, invited the audience to taste waffles and drink beer in Brussels, Belgium. 

The Ugandan Ambassador to China Judyth Nsababera came to the event in a red scarf gifted to her by the Chinese Embassy in Uganda, while Ambassador of Bosnia and Herzegovina to China Sinisa Berjan took photos of the exhibition area.