Tonight I joined with many others to acknowledge the 70th anniversary of the People’s Republic of China.

Consul-General Dr Xu Jie hosted a great gathering including Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk.

The Chinese Choir singing the respective anthems was magnificent.

Our Sunshine Coast recently celebrated a 20 yr ‘sister city’ anniversary with Xiamen, that has stood the test of time.

I thank those who in 1999 had the vision to set up such a strong friendship, cultural and economic arrangement.

I also recognise the great work done by Cr Jenny Mackay who has been vital in fostering the cultural relationship.

Chinese President Xi Jinping is a former Deputy Mayor of Xiamen.

“You could say we are well connected to Australia’s biggest trading partner.”