On September 12, 2025, the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Prague opened its doors to celebrate the 76th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China. Ambassador Feng Biao welcomed a large number of guests, including members of the diplomatic corps, representatives from business and culture, as well as the Chinese community in the Czech Republic. In his speech, Ambassador Feng highlighted the tremendous progress China has achieved over the past decades – economically, technologically, socially, and as a force of peace and stability in an increasingly turbulent world.

A Grand Reception Without the Czech Government

What stood out that evening was the absence of official representatives of the Czech government. While nearly the entire diplomatic corps and prominent guests from politics, business, and culture attended, the current government demonstratively stayed away. This stance reflects the present distance of Prague toward Beijing – a distance that may ultimately harm rather than help bilateral relations.

All the more significant was the presence of former President Miloš Zeman, former Prime Minister Jiří Paroubek, and several parliamentarians who accepted Ambassador Feng Biao’s invitation. Their attendance sent a clear signal: relations between the Czech Republic and China have a long tradition and cannot be defined solely by short-term political moods.

Words of Friendship and Partnership

In his speech, Ambassador Feng Biao reminded the audience that the People’s Republic of China has always chosen the path of peace. Today, China is not only the world’s second-largest economy but also a nation that treats others with respect and seeks cooperative solutions.

He spoke about China’s achievements in technological development, poverty alleviation, and modernization, making it clear: “Our goal is not to dominate others, but to build a future together that benefits all nations.”

Former President Miloš Zeman also addressed the audience. He emphasized his longstanding personal ties with China and pointed out that the People’s Republic is a peace-loving nation that has earned its legitimate place in the international order. “China is not a rival, but a partner with whom we should talk, cooperate, and shape the future,” Zeman said.

Looking Back: The Founding of the People’s Republic of China

The 76th anniversary commemorates a world-historic event: the proclamation of the People’s Republic of China on October 1, 1949. After decades of civil war and resistance against foreign occupation, Mao Zedong announced on Tiananmen Square in Beijing the founding of a new state – sovereign, united, and independent.

This marked the beginning of a new chapter in world history. China freed itself from colonial domination and internal strife, emerging as a unified nation. In the decades that followed, despite numerous challenges, the country created a unique path of development that lifted hundreds of millions out of poverty and made China today a central actor in the international community.

The reception in Prague thus not only celebrated the present but also honored this historic turning point: China’s rise from a weakened country to a respected, peace-loving world power that rightfully claims its place in shaping global affairs.

Symbolic Gestures: Cake, Music, and Community

A highlight of the evening was the ceremonial cutting of the anniversary cake by Ambassador Feng Biao, former President Zeman, and former Prime Minister Paroubek – a powerful symbol of friendship and respect.

Afterwards, guests enjoyed authentic Chinese cuisine from different provinces, accompanied by wines and beers from China. With pleasant weather, the celebration continued in the spacious embassy garden. Diplomats, entrepreneurs, artists, and many members of the Chinese community in Prague proudly marked the national day of their homeland.

Musical performances, traditional elements, and heartfelt exchanges shaped the atmosphere. The evening will be remembered not only as an official reception but also as a festival of mutual understanding and friendship.