On the evening of October 12, the 2025 Reception in Honor of Foreign Diplomatic Missions to China Hosted by Beijing Municipality was held. Over 300 guests from 110 countries attended, including diplomatic envoys, representatives of international organizations stationed in China, and their family members.

Before the reception, the guests took the "Great Beijing Central Axis Sightseeing Bus" at Yongdingmen Gate for a northbound tour along the Central Axis, appreciating its display and charm.

Arlindo Do Rosário, the Ambassador of Cape Verde to China, praised how well the route was planned, remarking that this was his first time exploring the Central Axis in this way. He noted that the route covers many of Beijing's renowned heritage sites, which gave him a profound understanding of the city's historical and cultural legacy.

Marti Mätas, the Minister and Deputy Head of Mission of the Embassy of Estonia to China, remarked, "I first visited Beijing and toured the Forbidden City in 2006. Now, having lived in Beijing for two years, I have explored most of the historical and cultural sites along the city's Central Axis. Riding on the sightseeing bus, I was delighted to see these heritage sites so well preserved and how many people are interested in them, as they are constantly visited by crowds. This truly reflects their historical value."

The Longfu Temple commercial district has emerged in recent years as a model project for the integration of urban renewal, old-city preservation and revitalization, and cultural consumption. At Longfu Cultural Center, the envoys experienced the delicate artistry of traditional intangible cultural heritage.

Maimona Khalid, the Minister-Counselor of Sudan to China, expressed, "These intricate intangible heritage skills showcase the profoundness of Chinese culture, with Beijing as a prime example. As I come from Sudan, a country with millennia of history and culture as well, I can deeply appreciate the rich cultural significance embodied in these intangible cultural heritage craftsmanship. They represent the essence of Chinese civilization and the wisdom of its people."

During the exchange session, Dumitru BRAGHIȘ, the Ambassador of Moldova to China, said, "This event combines a tour of the Central Axis with the reception, allowing us to witness firsthand the remarkable achievements Beijing has made in recent years in urban development, ecological conservation, and the preservation of historical and cultural sites. Beijing is a fascinating city, and I look forward to further exploring more of its many facets."

As Husam Al-Hussein, the Ambassador of Jordan to China, noted in his address, the reception has now become an annual gathering for Beijing to engage with the diplomatic community. He mentioned how it provides a platform for envoys to gain deeper insights into Beijing's socio-economic progress and enhances exchanges and cooperation across various fields.

(Source: CRI Online)