The Bahamas China Friendship Association joined Ambassador Yuan Guisen and the People’s Republic of China in celebrating the country’s 65th National Day Anniversary Reception, September 28, at the Melia Nassau Resort, Cable Beach.

In attendance were Governor General Dame Marguerite Pindling, Prime Minister Perry Christie, and Deputy Prime Minister and Acting Foreign Affairs Minister Philip Davis. Also present were former Governors General Sir Arthur Foulkes and Arthur D. Hanna.

Anthony Capron, recently elected president of the BCFA, expressed a genuine regard for China's maturity and positive influence in the geopolitical arena, especially through a global network of friendship associations.

"It is with profound pleasure that I, on behalf of the Bahamas China Friendship Association, congratulate the People’s Republic of China as it celebrates 65 years on the road back to world prominence," said the BCFA president.

Mr. Capron said that despite having a history that dates back thousands of years, in modern times, China has just become a senior citizen among the mature nations of the world. He added that China has mastered the process of sustainability over the last 65 years, beginning with the leadership of Chairman Mao.

"That is a plus for the Chinese people when considered that just two generations after those that led with Chairman Mao, following the 1949 revolution, China is again among the world leaders and is considered the number two economic superpower behind the United States," said Mr. Capron.

He said China’s reemergence is not happenstance, that it took careful planning and strict adherence to those plans. He said regardless to whether changes occurred in the government administration, the plans continued to conclusion."

Mr. Capron said in that regard, The Bahamas can take a page out of China’s book and make plans for the people and the country that can be carried out regardless to which political party is in power.

"If we say and mean that government is for, of and by the people, that should not be a problem," said Mr. Capron.

Recognising that the independent Bahamas is only 41 years old and just 24 years younger than the People’s Republic of China, Mr. Capron asked the question, "Can we catch up with them in terms of age?" He answered by saying, "No, they will always be our senior."

He added that what is good about that is, they are our friends and they can mentor us.

"Over the past 17 years, since our two countries established diplomatic relations, much has happened to deepen and strengthen the bonds of friendship.

This has been displayed through the high level exchanges between the leadership of our countries," said Mr. Capron, noting that both Prime Minister Perry Christie and former Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham have been to China.

He said it may be providence, but today both The Bahamas and China are in the right place, at the right time, of which, advantage must be taken.

Deputy Prime Minister and Acting Mr. of Foreign Affairs, The Honourable Phillip Davis. (BIS Photos / Derek Smith)