Chinese Embassy marks 60 years of diplomatic ties with Ghana

The Chinese Embassy in Ghana has marked the 60th Anniversary of the Ghana-China diplomatic relations with Chinese cultural displays and performances.

The occasion also marked the beginning of a New Year on the Chinese calendar, also referred to as the Year of the Rats, a creature that for centuries in the Chinese zodiac, has symbolised intelligence.

The event which took place last Monday evening, attracted many government officials, political figures and the diplomatic corps who were there to strengthen the ties between their various countries and the Chinese government.

Chinese residents in Ghana were also present in their numbers.

At the height of the performances were two Chinese sensations, namely the China Oriental Performing Arts Group and China National Symphony Orchestra, who are among the best performing troupes in China.

They thrilled the audience with dance performances and sensational musical renditions.

Aside from the dazzling Chinese cultural displays, there were Chinese fashion works, including embroidery, which showcased the ancient traditional Chinese craftsmanship and civilisation.

The audience was also treated with several Chinese cuisines and beverages.

Commendation

The Chinese Ambassador to Ghana, Mr Shi Ting Wang, in an address, commended Ghana for its cordial relationship with China and for protecting its citizens in the country.

He added that the Ghanaian hospitality had ensured that the bond between both countries grew stronger over time.

Mr Shi said last year several delegates from both countries paid diplomatic visits to each other’s country, including the Ghanaian Chief of Staff, Mrs Frema Osei Opare; the Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration Minister, Ms Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey; the Chinese business mogul, Mr Jack Ma, and a delegation from the Communist Party of China.

Mr Shi stated that it was an indication that the unity between both countries was flaming well.

“2020 is the 60th anniversary of China-Ghana diplomatic relationship.

We are now at the new historical point and we hope that Chinese nationals in Ghana could make more contributions to Ghana’s development,” the ambassador said.

Stronger ties

The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Mrs Cecilia Abena Dapaah, also expressed gratitude on behalf of the government to China for the stronger ties it had established with the country.

“This year marks 60 years of diplomatic relations for our two countries as we established the relationship in 1960.

Today’s event is the first and the formal launch of the celebration; we have every reason to celebrate the 60th anniversary, for the past 60 years the relationship has stood the test of time”.

“I hope this relationship continues to be more enhanced and grows from strength to strength,” she added.

Mrs Dapaa also stated that the cultural exchange between both countries was an important form of mutual understanding and commended the ambassador for bringing such high level Chinese performing troupes to Ghana.

“We are also looking forward to sending more Ghanaian cultural troupes to China,” she said.