最后，预祝本次活动取得圆满成功！祝愿各位来宾朋友身心康泰、吉庆平安！
A Speech at the Opening Ceremony of the
“China-Malaysia Islamic Culture Expo 2014”
(July 3, 2014)
Zhang Lebin
Dear Guests, Friends
Ladies and gentlemen,
Good afternoon. Asalamu Alaikum！
On the occasion that the China and Malaysia and the people in the two countries are celebrating the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations, and at the very beginning of the Holy month of Ramadan, “the China-Malaysia Islamic Culture Expo 2014” is inaugurated in this charming metropolis of Kuala Lumpur. The event is organized by the China Islamic Association and supported by all related departments of both countries. This grand event reflects the deep friendship between the two nations. It is a pioneering work done by the Islamic circles of the two countries, and an important gift to the 40th anniversary of the diplomatic relations between China and Malaysia. At this great moment, on behalf of the State Administration for Religious Affairs of China I would like express my warm congratulation to this culture exchange event, my heartfelt greeting to the honorable guests, and good wishes to Muslim friends!
Chinese culture is inclusive to various cultures just like the sea is open to thousands of rivers. Islam was introduced into China quite early. It has gone through an extraordinary journey of sinicization over the past 1300 years. Islam has gradually become the national religion of 10 ethnic minorities whose total population is more than 20 millions. In the circumstances of highly inclusive Chinese culture, Islam has taken root deeply on the land of China and gradually developed a significant trait of peace, patriotism, tolerance and moderation which both adheres to Islamic spirit and embodies the aspiration of Chinese nation. Islam in China has taken on a distinctive feature with a deep Chinese mark. It has become a positive force in inheriting Chinese culture and developing Chinese nation. You can take a glimpse into the unique charm of Chinese Islamic culture and colorful life of Chinese Muslims through the event. And you will have a deeper understanding of how much Chinese culture has been nourishing Islam in China.
The China-Malaysia friendship has a long history just as a river runs a long course from a remote source. What we are most proud of is that the two countries and the people not only enjoy a long history of friendly relations and constant exchange but also have created together the world famous Maritime Silk Road by making full use of the advantages of their own. In the past 40 years, the relations between China and Malaysia are getting closer, high-level visits become more frequent, political mutual trust is strengthened, economic cooperation is expanded and personnel exchange is increased. All these have significantly benefited the two countries and the people as a result. Not long ago, the celebration of the 40th anniversary of the establishment of the diplomatic relations was held ceremoniously in Beijing. Chinese President Xi Jinping, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang and Malaysian Prime Minister, Dato’ Sri Mohd Najib spoke highly of the China-Malaysia relations and all of them expressed their deep expectation for a better future. It requires the two countries and the people including Muslims to cherish what we have accomplished and push them forward hand in hand. Let’s compose a new chapter for the China-Malaysia friendship with our wisdom and strength.
The Islamic circles in both countries undertake glorious mission. Looking back in the history, we can find that Islam both in China and Malaysia bear the distinctive characteristics of their nation. The Islamic circles in both countries have always been committed to fulfilling their responsibilities for upholding their national interests. Focusing on the current situation, we can see that the governments of both China and Malaysia have very clear mind of their responsibility for the national prosperity and progress. Both countries are striving to realize their dreams, the China dream aimed at national prosperity, national rejuvenation and people’s happiness, and the Malaysia dream aimed at building a strong nation and making the people wealthy. Furthermore, the two countries are obliged to promoting the peace, stability, security, harmony and development of the region and world as well. Looking to the future, the Islamic circles of both countries must enhance the sense of responsibility and the sense of overall situation, build up a world vision and have clear mind of distinction between right and wrong. They also need to concentrate on realizing their national dreams, strengthening mutual exchanges, promoting common ideas, and gathering strength, so as to make a right guidance for the development of Islam and exploring it its true spirit, and benefit the nation and humankind as a result. We believe, as the friendly relations between the two countries is keeping developing, and with the trust and support from both governments, the Islamic circles will surely use this event as a new starting point and make persistent efforts to benefit the two countries and the people. We will make more contributions to a brighter future of the China-Malaysia relations.
Finally, I wish a big success the Expo, and good health and peace to all the guests and friends!（编辑：刘玉萍）
