Pennsylvania Chinese Overseas Chinese League celebrates the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China and the 45th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations bet

On September 26, in celebration of the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China and the 45th anniversary of U.S.-China diplomatic relations, the Pennsylvania Chinese Coalition joined forces with the Philadelphia city government to hold a flag-raising ceremony in front of City Hall. Among the attendees were officials from the Chinese Consulate General in New York, including Counselor Hou Lihong and Deputy Director Li De, alongside various government officials and members of the Chinese community, all wishing the PRC a happy birthday and expressing hopes for lasting friendship between the U.S. and China.

Around 10 a.m., the ceremony kicked off with performances from vibrant dance troupes and drumming bands, setting a festive tone. Lin Yingzhang, the coalition’s co-chair, served as the emcee for the flag-raising ceremony, which officially began with the playing of the U.S. national anthem. As the powerful Chinese national anthem resonated, flag bearers Li Dongmin and Yang Daofeng raised the Chinese flag in front of City Hall, alongside the U.S. flag, amid cheers from the crowd.

Chen Zhanyuan, the coalition’s executive chair, emphasized the historical significance of the event, remarking that 75 years ago, the establishment of the People’s Republic of China marked the beginning of a new chapter in China’s development. Through hard work and relentless effort, the Chinese people have achieved unprecedented prosperity and progress, contributing not only to their own happiness but also providing substantial support for global development. He noted that the formal establishment of diplomatic relations between the U.S. and China 45 years ago opened a new chapter in bilateral relations, with extensive cooperation in trade, culture, and education over the years laying a solid foundation for friendship between the two nations.

Counselor Hou Lihong addressed the crowd, acknowledging the long-standing patriotic traditions of the Chinese community in Philadelphia that collaborates with other ethnic groups to celebrate Chinese National Day. He expressed deep respect for the local Chinese diaspora, noting that 75 years may seem short in history but represents tremendous changes for New China, creating marvelous milestones in humanity’s development. Looking forward, he assured that China would continue to provide new opportunities and contributions to the world through its ongoing development.

As this year marks the 45th anniversary of U.S.-China diplomatic relations, Hou highlighted the challenges both nations have overcome together, which have led to significant benefits for their people and important contributions to global peace and development. The healthy and stable development of U.S.-China relations, he emphasized, is heavily reliant on the dedication of Chinese Americans who, despite being far from home, continuously support China’s development and promote peaceful reunification while fostering friendship and cooperation across various sectors.

Razin M. Karu, the Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Asian Pacific American Commission, and Chairman Chen Wei also spoke, presenting a congratulatory letter from the Governor of Pennsylvania. Amy Eusebio, Director of the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs, along with other government officials, acknowledged the vibrant multicultural landscape of Philadelphia, attributing it to the hard work of diverse ethnic communities and expressing gratitude for the contributions of the Chinese community. They commended the coalition for its outstanding efforts in strengthening ties between the city government and the Chinese community.

Following the flag-raising ceremony, the coalition hosted a luncheon at the Wah Hing Restaurant in South Philadelphia. Secretary General Zhang Zi’ai expressed gratitude to the members for their united efforts to enhance U.S.-China friendship, showcasing the positive image of the Chinese community and its contributions. Performances from the Philadelphia Chinese Women’s Association and the Pennsylvania Chinese Association’s Drum Corps entertained guests, who collectively wished for the prosperity and peace of the People’s Republic of China and a brighter future for U.S.-China relations.