The Albanian Embassy in Beijing has organized a reception on the occasion of Albania's National Day which was attended by the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of China, Qin Gang, heads of the diplomatic corps in China, friends of Albania, Albanians working and studying in China, reported CRI online on Thursday.

At the beginning of his greeting speech, the Ambassador of Albania to Beijing, Selim Belortaja praised the Chinese side for the efficiency in controlling the coronavirus epidemic and in restoring normal life, which made possible the organization of such a reception. He also thanked China for its assistance to Albania in this difficult period, an example of international solidarity.

Further in his speech, Ambassador Belortaja said that November 28 is a significant day for Albania, because it is the day of the establishment of the modern Albanian state. 

Albania proclaimed independence on November 28, 1912.

Belortaja noted that the Albanian nation is one of the oldest in Europe and stressed that Albania today has a respected place in the international community.

Tirana's top diplomat to Beijing also reminded that this year is the 71st anniversary of the establishment of Albanian-Chinese diplomatic relations and that Albania is among the first countries to recognize the People's Republic of China. He expressed his deepest respect for all those who have contributed to the strengthening of friendship between the two people. Belortaja pointed out that the ties between the two countries in the new era have been strengthening, including political, economic, cultural and educational relations, human exchanges, etc.

The Albanian Ambassador congratulated China for the great successes and achievements in its path of development. He expressed confidence that the "One Belt, One Road" initiative and the "17 + 1 Cooperation" mechanism are two open platforms offering Albania very good development opportunities.

In conclusion of his remarks in the reception, which passed in a warm and friendly atmosphere, Belortaja expressed confidence and wish for a bright future of Albanian-Chinese relations.