60 years ago, on 1 October, the Chinese people under the leadership of the Communist Party of the China endured a long fight for independence and liberation, and founded the People's Republic of China. The Chinese people have thus stood up and embarked on a path of independence, democracy and development.
Over the 60 years, especially the 30 years since China's reform and opening up, China has made remarkable progress, with demonstrable increase in comprehensive national strength, consistent improvement of people's living standard, substantial strengthening of democratic and legal system and contribution to world peace and development. In 1952, China's GDP was only 67.9 billion RMB, by 2008, our GDP exceeded 30 trillion RMB, which means GDP per day in 2008 is equivalent to the GDP of the whole year of 1952. The rich experiences we have learned over the 60 years have enabled us to successfully steer out of the current global financial crisis. China's GDP registered a 7.1% increase in the first half of this year. Till now, China's economy is showing signs of stabilizing and improvement. The Chinese people are now enjoying human rights which they have never enjoyed before.
Over the 60 years, China has pursued its national sovereignty, security and development interest. We have contributed to the promotion of world peace, development and cooperation. China seeks close cooperation with all countries. China strives to build a harmonious neighbourhood of lasting peace and common prosperity. We have never waivered in our commitment to the fundamental policy of good neighbourliness. The Philippines is one of our close neighbours. Through the concerted efforts by the Chinese and the Philippine Governments and our two peoples, our relations have been growing from strength to strength. China is the largest developing country, and the Philippines is a country of rich resources and talented people. We see great potential for our bilateral cooperation. China is ready to boost cooperation with the Philippines in even broader areas, such as water project, power supply, irrigation facilities, mining, farming technology, transportation, communication, tourism and education.
Looking back at the track China has gone through over the 60 years, we would regard it as a path of hardship yet with splendour, a path that all Chinese people should be proud of, a path that benefits the world. At this joyous moment, I would like to offer my heartiest blessing to my beloved country. I would also like to express my best wishes for the continued good health and prosperity of the Republic of the Philippines and the friendly Philippine people. I hope that the Government and people of the Philippines will stay with us in pursuit of cooperation and development, and work with us in furthering our bilateral relations. Long live China-Philippines friendship!
