Kolkata, January 21, 2025 – On January 21, 2025, the ‘Chinese Consulate in Kolkata’ hosted a grand reception to celebrate the Chinese New Year, marking the onset of the Year of the Snake at Hyatt Regency Kolkata. This event also commemorated the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and India, highlighting the deep-rooted ties between the two nations.
Acting Consul General Qin Yong, representing Consul General Xu Wei, extended heartfelt New Year greetings to all attendees. In his address, he emphasized the significance of the past year in strengthening China-India relations, noting the pivotal meeting between President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which led to a renewed commitment to enhancing bilateral ties.
Reflecting on the achievements of 2024, Qin Yong highlighted China’s economic growth, with an annual GDP reaching approximately 135 trillion Yuan, marking a 5% year-on-year increase. He also mentioned breakthroughs in science and technology, particularly in aerospace, new energy, and artificial intelligence, as well as the commendable performance of Chinese athletes at the Paris Olympic Games.
The Acting Consul General underscored the importance of cultural exchanges, recalling the joint commemoration of the 100th anniversary of Rabindranath Tagore’s visit to China. He noted that scholars, artists, Buddhist Bhikkhus, and youth representatives from East India visited China, while Chinese scholars experienced West Bengal’s Durga Puja, fostering mutual understanding between the two civilizations.
Looking ahead, Qin Yong stated, “2025 marks the seventy-fifth anniversary of China-India diplomatic relations. Let us look forward to the future together, implement the important consensus of the two leaders, and jointly promote China-India friendship.”
The reception featured cultural performances, traditional Chinese music, and a showcase of Chinese cuisine, providing guests with an immersive experience of Chinese heritage. The event not only celebrated the Lunar New Year but also reinforced the enduring friendship and cooperation between China and India.