On December 24, 2007, the launch ceremony of the Commemorative Album on 15th Anniversary of the Establishment of Diplomatic Ties Between China and the Five Central Asian Countries was held in Diaoyutai State Guesthouse. Assistant Foreign Minister Li Hui attended the ceremony and delivered a speech.

Li, on behalf of the Foreign Ministry, extended warm congratulations on the launch of the publication and sincere gratitude to the World Affairs Press for its hard work.

He said that this year marks the 15th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and the five Central Asian countries -- Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan and Turkmenistan. It is of great significance in the history of bilateral relations. To celebrate the anniversary China and the five countries have held dozens of activities since the beginning of this year. The publication carefully selected the valuable historical pictures on the high-level contacts and friendly exchanges in various fields between China and the central Asian countries. It marks the successful completion of the celebration activities. In the new historical period China is willing to make joint efforts with central Asian countries to comprehensively implement the consensuses reached between the leaders of both sides, consolidate the traditional friendship, expand mutually beneficial cooperation and promote the bilateral relations to enjoy a better future.

The ambassadors of Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan and Turkmenistan to China and the president of World Affairs Press Gao Shumao were also present at the launch ceremony.