Xu Wei, China’s newly-appointed Consul General, arrived in Kolkata on June 1 to assume his new role. He was welcomed at the airport by officials from the Chinese Consulate General, representatives of the Chinese community, and executives from Chinese-funded enterprises in Kolkata, according to a press release from the Consulate General of China in Kolkata.
Consul General’s Vision
Xu Wei, the sixth Chinese Consul General in Kolkata, expressed his honor at taking on the role. He emphasized his commitment to fostering friendly exchanges and cooperation between China and India, aiming to deepen mutual understanding and friendship between the peoples of both nations. Xu also pledged to continue providing high-quality consular services to the Chinese community and Chinese enterprises in Kolkata.
“China and India are neighbors connected by mountains and rivers,” the Consulate General’s statement read. “The Consulate General will actively promote friendly exchanges and cooperation between China and India, deepen mutual understanding and friendship between the two peoples, and contribute to the sound and steady development of China-India relations.”
Previous Consul General’s Retirement
Xu Wei succeeds Zha Liyou, who retired from public service in January 2024 after over five years in the role. In a farewell message on social media, Zha expressed his deep gratitude to the local community and his colleagues. “Though retiring from public services and returning to China soon to join family, I will never give up serving to strengthen our friendship,” Zha stated.
Broader Diplomatic Moves
In related diplomatic news, Xu Feihong, the newly-appointed Chinese Ambassador to India, arrived in New Delhi in May to assume office. He was greeted by officials from the Protocol Division of the Ministry of External Affairs, as well as members of the Chinese Embassy in India.
The arrival of both Xu Wei and Xu Feihong marks a significant moment in China-India diplomatic relations, with both officials poised to enhance bilateral cooperation and mutual understanding between the two countries.