To mark the 58th anniversary of the foundation of the People?s Republic of China, a series of activities was organised last weekend in Heen Foh Hall. The Sino-Mauritian associations jointly held a dinner under one dome (the first of its kind) to celebrate the historic event. Sylvio Tang, the minister of Youth and Sports, Fritz Thomas, the representative of municipal council, His Excellency the ambassador of the People?s Republic of China, Guo Yuechen, the director of Chinese Cultural Centre, Mr Bai as well as the whole staff of the embassy and the Sino-Mauritians from different walks of life were present. About six hundred people attended the function and the ceremony was conducted by Mrs Chang. Heen Foh Hall was festooned reminiscent of the good old days of Sin Fah in the early fifties and sixties.

Mr Li Chee Siong, the president of the organising committee for this celebration, in his welcoming speech in mandarin, laid stress on the importance of a one-China policy to which the international community firmly adheres. He further made reference to the two most cherished dreams of China, now being materialised namely the launching of satellites in orbit and the organisation of the Olympic Games.

His Excellency the ambassador of the Republic of China, Guo Yuechen expressed his joy to find the consolidation of the 35-year friendship between China and Mauritius. This friendship and co-operation will go on blossoming. He also spoke in favour of a one-China policy.

Sylvio Tang, minister of Youth and Sports, then expressed the commitment of his government to respect the one-China policy. He extended the gratitude of Mauritius to China for the financial aid given to our country in the construction of its infrastructure. With the establishment of Tianli in the weeks to come, a new era will open in the co-operation between both countries.

A toast was then proposed to the government of People?s Republic of China and its population on this momentous occasion. National anthems of China and Mauritius were played ? a moment of intense emotion. There was a display of lion dance amidst the explosion of fire crackers to welcome the guests.

The dinner was held in an atmosphere of joy and conviviality. China Town reverberated to the rhythm of the Middle Kingdom. After the dinner, a cultural show was organised with the participation of different socio-cultural groups.

The next day, on Sunday, different competitions were held. Prizes were awarded to the winners of different tournaments in sports. A karoake competition was organised and won by Mrs Chang of China Times. Many Chinese workers showed their hidden talents. Amidst joy and festivity, these workers celebrated the China?s Republic Day in spite of being far from their homeland.

Philip LI CHING HUM