On February 4, 2026, the WomenEmpowerment and Development Society in Asia-Africa, together with the People’s Government of Huian County, Quanzhou City, Fujian Province, co-hosted the “Hearts and Hands United, Triumph Greets Your Endeavor” New Year Reception and Huian Night. Over 200 guests gathered for this joyous occasion, including more than 60 ambassadors, their spouses, and other diplomats from 46 countries such as Senegal, Pakistan, Myanmar, and Cyprus, as well as representatives from the China Foundation for Peace and Development, the Global Alliance for Women Development and Action, and the Basi Public Welfare Alliance. They engaged in warm conversations about philanthropic endeavors, shared stories of friendship, and celebrated the upcoming Lunar New Year together.

At the beginning of the event,President Zhao Meiling of the WEDS.AA delivered a speech, warmly welcoming Chinese and international guests. She briefly reviewed the society’s work over the past year: first, international public welfare projects advanced steadily; second, cultural exchange activities were vibrant and diverse; third, the society leveraged platforms to seek cooperation and mutual benefit; and fourth, the society successfully co-hosted the Fourth Asian-African Women’s Development and Cooperation Forum and established the Global Alliance for Women’s Development Action. President Zhao expressed sincere gratitude to all supporters from different sectors who have long cared for and supported the society, and extended her best wishes for the New Year.

H.E. Dr.Joyce Banda, former President of Malawi, delivered her greetings via video across mountains and seas, and paid tribute to the team led by President Zhao Meiling.

The Ambassador of Senegal to China spoke highly of the unique New Year reception. He noted that the event was rich in content, featuring displays of intangible cultural heritage (ICH) brands, a tea ceremony performance, a Huian women’s fashion show, and captivating cultural performances, keeping Chinese and international guests immersed in surprise, laughter, and joy throughout. He emphasized that the WEDS.AA is a compassionate and influential NGO whose public welfare initiatives have benefited tens of thousands of women and children across Asia and Africa, while helping more people learn about China. Their good deeds have earned wide recognition, and they serve as friendly envoys of people-to-people connectivity. He noted that 2026 is the “Year of China-Africa Cultural and People-to-People Exchanges”, and said that China and Africa, working together amid global changes, will seize opportunities, achieve win-win outcomes through deeper cooperation, and create an even better future.

Chen Jianfeng, Director of Huian County People’s Congress and Deputy Secretary of the County Party Committee, showcased Huian’s unique charm to the guests and invited everyone to taste Huian’s finest cuisine.

During the reception, the public welfare brand WEDSTAR Projectwas officially launched. FORHERB (Tianjin) Group Co., Ltd. donated 1 million Yuan to the “Silk Road Happiness” Fund under the China Foundation for Peace and Development, and the People’s Government of Huian County, Fujian Province donated supplies worth 1 million Yuan.

The reception was filled with warmth, laughter, and a festive atmosphere. Chinese and international guests expressed their appreciation to the WEDS.AA and the Huian County People’s Government for hosting such a meticulously organized and unforgettable New Year reception.