On the evening of May 29, 2013, Chinese Ambassador to India Wei Wei held an appreciation reception at Leela Hotel in New Delhi for the thoughtful arrangement and hospitality by the Indian side during the visit of Premier Li Keqiang to India from May 19 to 22. Ms. Ruchira Kamboj, Joint Secretary of Protocol Division, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Government of India attended the reception as chief guest. Representatives from East Asia Division of MEA, Indian Council of World Affairs, Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Confederation of Indian Industry, the Associated Chambers of Indian Commerce and Industry, Rajghat Samadhi Committee, Jawaharlal Nehru University, Hyderabad House, Hotel Taj Palace, media organizations and diplomats from the Chinese Embassy in India, altogether more than 100 people were present at the event.

In his opening remarks, Ambassador Wei Wei said that Premier Li Keqiang’s visit to India was the first leg of the first overseas visit since he took office in March. During the visit, Premier Li had held candid, friendly and fruitful meetings and talks with Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh and other Indian leaders. The two countries issued a joint statement and signed 8 agreements. This visit had converged strategic consensus, enhanced political mutual trust and expanded economic cooperation between the two countries, charting out the future development of China-India relations in all-round manner. It was a successful visit with great significance, far-reaching impact and fruitful results.

Ambassador Wei Wei extended sincere thanks to relevant government departments, organizations, communities and all people who contributed to this visit. He appreciated their diligent, delicate, professional and efficient work as well as support and collaboration given to Premier Li’s delegation and the Chinese Embassy, which helped us to overcome many difficulties such as tight schedule and scorching heat. He wished the friendship between China and India flourish and blossom.

Ms. Kamboj appreciated the hosting of this reception by Ambassador Wei Wei. She was deeply touched. She emphasized that the significance of protocol work during high level visits was collaboration. She was impressed by the professionalism, diligence and devotion showed by the Chinese side. She also wished further development of the China-India relations.

During the reception, the Indian guests and Chinese diplomats exchange views in a warm and friendly atmosphere.