Esteemed guests, ladies and gentlemen: Good evening! Welcome to tonight’s reception. Today marks the Chinese lunar calendar’s “Little New Year,” and in just a week, we will celebrate the Lunar New Year of the Horse. On behalf of the Chinese Consulate General in Gothenburg, I extend my sincere greetings and warm festive wishes to all of you!
Looking back over the past year, China successfully concluded its 14th Five-Year Plan. Our national economy has continued to advance under pressure, evolving towards new and improved standards, with significant achievements in high-quality development. The primary goals of economic and social development have been met. The total economic output has reached new heights, with preliminary estimates indicating that in 2025, China’s GDP will surpass 140 trillion yuan (approximately 19.63 trillion USD) for the first time, reflecting a 5.0% increase from the previous year. China contributed over 30% to global economic growth, establishing itself as the most stable and reliable source of economic momentum worldwide.
In terms of technological innovation, China has made remarkable strides, ranking among the top ten in the Global Innovation Index for the first time. The number of PCT international patent applications remains the highest globally. The successful launch of the Shenzhou 22 manned spacecraft, the commissioning of the first electromagnetic catapult aircraft carrier, and the global popularity of the DeepSeek artificial intelligence model highlight our advancements. Additionally, our CR450 high-speed train technology leads the world, while 6G communication has entered the experimental phase for technical solutions and prototype development. Numerous technological products in fields such as drones, humanoid robots, quantum computing, and biomedicine have gained international acclaim.
The influence of Chinese culture continues to grow. The animated film “Ne Zha 2” topped the global box office for animated films, while trendy Chinese brands like Mixue Ice City and Labubu have garnered a loyal following overseas. The trend of “checking in on Chinese tourism” is emerging as a new fashion.
China is committed to advancing high-level opening up, with the overall tariff level reduced to 7.3%. Restrictions on foreign investment in the manufacturing sector have been eliminated, and the Hainan Free Trade Port has commenced full island closure operations, marking a new stage in high-level openness.
2025 will also be the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Sweden. President Xi Jinping and King Carl XVI Gustaf exchanged congratulatory messages. During meetings in Sweden, Vice Premier He Lifeng spoke with Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson about Sino-Swedish economic and trade discussions. The Swedish Foreign Minister visited China after 16 years, and the China-Sweden Economic and Trade Joint Committee successfully convened. Sweden participated as a guest country in the China International Import Expo for the first time. Furthermore, China has implemented a unilateral visa exemption policy for Swedish citizens holding ordinary passports, facilitating cultural exchanges and practical cooperation between our two nations.
Fellow compatriots and friends, 2026 marks the beginning of the 15th Five-Year Plan. During this period, China will thoroughly enhance its independent innovation capabilities and promote high-quality development. We will continue to deepen reforms and expand high-level opening up, creating an internationally competitive business environment. Adhering to a people-centered development philosophy, we will advance common prosperity for all, writing a new chapter in China’s remarkable journey.
A China characterized by high-quality development and open engagement will inject greater stability into a turbulent world and provide more opportunities for countries around the globe. The journey may seem distant, yet we stride forward with confidence. The healthy development of Sino-Swedish relations and cooperation across various fields relies on the participation and contributions of Chinese citizens, enterprises, and students in the region. On this occasion, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude on behalf of the Chinese Consulate General in Gothenburg.
In the coming year, the Consulate will continue to uphold the principle of diplomacy for the people, providing high-quality consular services to our compatriots and safeguarding the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese citizens in the region. Together with the local community and our compatriots, we will contribute to the modernization of China and promote the steady and sustainable development of Sino-Swedish relations.
At today’s reception, we have prepared “care packages” thoughtfully designed by the Overseas Chinese Affairs Office of the State Council and the Henan Provincial Overseas Chinese Association for our compatriots. These packages include heartfelt “letters from home,” festive decorations, and unique souvenirs. We also collaborated with the Stockholm Chinese Cultural Center to present the “Snowy Charm of the East – Photography Exhibition of China’s Ice and Snow Landscapes,” showcasing the distinctive ice and snow sports, cultural life, and tourist attractions of Heilongjiang.
This “package” and “exhibition” convey the deep care of our motherland, allowing overseas Chinese to resonate together and celebrate the New Year warmly!
Finally, I would like to extend early New Year greetings to all our compatriots and guests. I sincerely wish you a joyful Spring Festival, happiness and health, and peace and prosperity in the Year of the Dragon!
Thank you!
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/consul-yang-peidongs-address-at-the-2026-new-year-reception-in-gothenburg-celebrating-chinas-achievements-and-strengthening-sino-swedish-relations/
