The Chinese Consulate General marked the 60th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China at a reception Monday.

Consul General Liang Shugen told the reception that tremendous changes had taken place since the founding of the People's Republic of China and especially since its opening up to the outside world 30 years ago.

"China now has become a country characterized by political stability, national harmony and fast economic growth," he said.

Liang outlined the great progress China had achieved in various areas.

Liang said China had always pursued a foreign policy of peace and development and played an active and positive role in major international issues.

On the China-Canada relationship, Liang said both countries shared much in common and had broad interests in cooperation. Strengthening bilateral ties was the common desire of the two peoples and was in the interests of both countries.

Canadian Minister of International Trade Stockwell Day attended the reception and conveyed a message from Prime Minister Stephen Harper, who expressed warm congratulations on the coming Chinese National Day holiday, which falls on October 1.

"Over the past 60 years, China has emerged as one of the world's fastest growing economies and key player on the world stage," Day said.

The two countries were on the course toward a long-term partnership while Canada was committed to building a forward-looking and meaningful relationship with China for decades to come, he said.

(Xinhua News Agency September 30, 2009)