CHINA, Oct. 2 -- We gather together happily today to celebrate the 76th anniversary of the founding of the Peoples Republic of China.

At the outset, on behalf of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China and the State Council, I wish to extend festive greetings to the Chinese people of all ethnic groups, to members of the Chinese Peoples Liberation Army and Armed Police, and to all other political parties and public figures without party affiliation!

I wish to extend sincere greetings to our compatriots in the Hong Kong and Macao Special Administrative Regions and Taiwan and those residing abroad!

I also wish to express our heartfelt appreciation to all countries and foreign friends who have long shown understanding for and...