On the afternoon of November 13, 2010, Ambassador Zhang Yan attended Dr. Kotnis birth centenary function held by Indian cross-party groups of peace and friendship and delivered a speech. Over 300 friendly personages from all walks of life in Andhra Pradesh took part in the function including Mr. Murthy, member of the political bureau of CPI (M) central committee, President of India-China Friendship Association in Andhra Pradesh Mr. Chukka Ramaiah, general secretary of All India Peace and Solidarity Organization Mr. Prabakararao and chairman of A.P. Medical Council of India Dr. Reddy.

Ambassador Zhang made an introduction of Dr. Dwarkanath Shantaram Kotnis' life story during his speech. He said, the Chinese people would cherish the memory of Dr. Kotnis' great internationalist spirit to whom he dedicated his life to China's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression. This year marked the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and India, so we should follow the example of Dr. Kotnis' moral character and spirit and make our friendship continue to go forward.

Ambassador Zhang pointed out that with a long history of friendship, China and India supported and cooperated with each other over the years. As the two biggest developing countries, both were facing with unprecedented opportunities as well as critical challenges. Without our friendly co-existence and pragmatic cooperation, the development and prosperity of China and India, the harmony and rising of Asia and the peace and progress of the world could not be realized. In light of such situation, we should follow the footsteps of Dr. Kotnis to enhance mutual understanding, mutual trust and mutually beneficial cooperation by working in a down-to-earth manner, to push our relationship to a new height and make contribution to the world peace and prosperity.

Over ten representatives from the Indian side made statements successively in the function. According to them, Dr. Kotnis was the symbol of Sino-Indian friendship. Different kinds of activities to memorize Dr. Kotnis held by people from all walks of life in India indicated that, being friendly to China was the common will of the Indian people. The medical community should particularly learn and develop his internationalist spirit and promote Sino-Indian friendship unswervingly, which would benefit our two peoples and world peace. 

Before attending the function, Ambassador Zhang Yan came to Sundarayya Memorial Park, paid tribute and presented flowers to the statue of Sundarayya, the founder of CPI (M).