Chinese consulate in Houston celebrates National Day

The Chinese Consulate General in Houston held a reception Tuesday to mark the 63rd anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic.

About 500 people attended the event, including consulate staff, U.S. federal and local officials, and representatives of local businesses, colleges, Chinese communities and Chinese students.

Speaking at the reception, Consul General Xu Erwen said that the wealth created in China in a single day now is nearly twice the annual GDP created in the whole year of 1952.

She added that it is expected that China will continue to be a key powerhouse for global economic growth.

China, Xu said, is also playing an increasingly important role on the world stage, upholding justice in international affairs and maintaining peace and stability across the globe.

This year marks the 40th anniversary of late U.S. President Richard Nixon's ice-breaking visit to China and the release of the Shanghai Communique.

Xu said the relations between the world's top two economies represent one of the most important, most dynamic and most promising relationships in today's world.

Annise Parker, mayor of Houston, said in a congratulatory message that China has made numerous scientific and cultural contribution to the world.

"Today, China continues to play an important role in the world in the fields of economics, culture, technology and so many others," she said.

Houston is proud to have a strong, multi-dimensional relationship with China, said Parker, adding that "Houston highly values its vibrant and thriving Chinese community, whose many contributions add to the rich cultural diversity of our city."

Former U.S. Presidents Jimmy Carter and George H.W. Bush also sent letters to the consulate over China's National Day.