The Chinese people conquered the disaster of the severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and maintained sustainable economic growth in 2003, said Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing in Beijing Monday.  

Li made the remarks at the New Year reception in honor of foreign diplomats and representatives of international organizations at the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse Monday evening.

Chinese State Councilor Tang Jiaxuan and some 420 foreign guests and Chinese officials attended the reception.

Li said the year of 2003 was unusual for China, as the Chinese people succeeded in the fight against SARS and won more friends in the international community.

He expressed appreciation for the hard work and positive contributions made by the foreign diplomats and representatives of international organizations in the past year.

At the reception, Russian Ambassador to China Igor A. Rogachev, representative of the foreign diplomatic mission in Beijing, spoke highly of China's achievements and wished the Chinese people new progress in the future.

After the reception, an art soiree was held.

(Xinhua News Agency December 30, 2003)