Mr. Li Huilai,
Mr. Ambassador,
Mr. Mayor,
Dear Friends,

I have always been impressed by Chinese proverbs, both by their simplicity and wisdom. One of these proverbs says: “The best time to plant a tree was 25 years ago. The next best time is today”.

Indeed, 25 years ago we have established diplomatic relations between the Republic of Armenia and the People’s Republic of China. And over these years, both China and Armenia have done everything possible in order to strengthen, develop and expand our centuries-old friendly relations.

This includes the political dialogue at the highest-level, those kind and warm relations established between the leaders of our countries. This includes also the cooperation between our governments on economic issues, development of cooperation in cultural, scientific and educational fields. This is the close collaboration of the Ministries of Foreign Affairs of two countries, cooperation in the framework of international organisations. These are also the good relations that have developed between the peoples of China and Armenia.

There is another proverb as well, which says that “for passing the 1000 mile way, the one must do the first step”. Today we do the first symbolic step of laying down the first stone, the foundation of a new building - the Embassy of China in Armenia. The leadership of China, looking into future, have decided that a new, big Embassy should be built in Armenia, with the prospect, that this Embassy will serve for the implementation of new, important, big projects aimed at development and strengthening of the relations and friendship between our two countries.

I would like to congratulate our Chinese friends on this good undertaking and wish success to all those who will implement this project. Long live the Armenian-Chinese friendship!