Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Zhang Xianyi hosted a reception here Sunday to celebrate 60 years founding anniversary of People's Republic of China.

Over the last 60 years and especially the last 31 years since the implementation of the reform and opening-up policy, tremendous changes have taken place in China, Zhang said.

Zhang highly lauded the relationship between China and Bangladesh, saying the two countries are close neighbors enjoying traditional and time-tested friendship.

"Since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1975, the two countries have witnessed fruitful cooperation in various fields," he said.

The ambassador said he believed with the joint efforts of the two governments and two peoples, the relations of comprehensive partnership of cooperation featuring long-term friendship, equality and mutual benefit will bear more fruits in the days to come.

The chief guest, Bangladeshi Planning Minister AK Khandker said at the function that Bangladesh attaches great importance to maintaining good relations with China.

"I believe the friendship and cooperation between the two friendly countries will be deepened in the days to come," he said.

The reception was held in Bangabandhu International Conference Center, also called Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Center, the building of which was assisted by the Chinese government. The landmark building has become a symbol of friendship between China and Bangladesh.

Decorated by red lanterns, the hall where the reception was held was imbued with an atmosphere of festivity. Over 600 guests gave their greetings to the 60 years birthday of new China.

C.M. Murshed was posted as Bangladeshi ambassador to China from1982 to 1984. He said he very much appreciated the great achievements China have made in the past few decades.

Feng Xiaorong, general manager of Bamboo Shoot, one of the best Chinese restaurants in Bangladesh, said she is proud of being a Chinese.

Artists from China and Bangladesh performed traditional dances and songs in the reception.

Bangladesh former president Hussain Muhammad Ershad and several ministers attended the reception.

(Xinhua News Agency September 28, 2009)