The China Disabled Persons' Federation (CDPF) hosted its 2025 New Year Celebration in Beijing on Jan. 22, bringing together people with and without disabilities for cultural and sports activities at the China Administration of Sports for Persons with Disabilities.

Over 200 guests attended the event, including representatives from the embassies of more than 50 countries, such as the United States, France, Italy, Switzerland and Japan, along with U.N. agencies, international organizations, and foreign-invested enterprises.

Zhou Changkui, vice chair and president of the Executive Board of CDPF, attended the celebration and delivered a speech. You Liang, vice president of the Executive Board, served as the host.

In his speech, Zhou thanked both domestic and international partners for supporting people with disabilities in China. He emphasized the Chinese government's commitment to a people-centered development philosophy, ensuring the comprehensive advancement of disability-related initiatives.

Over the past year, CDPF has implemented practical measures to safeguard the rights and interests of individuals with disabilities, enhanced social security systems and support services, leveraged technology to empower them, and led the Chinese delegation to notable success at the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games. Consequently, the cause of disability rights has gained momentum in China, becoming integrated into the nation's broader social and economic development, while enhancing the sense of fulfillment, happiness and security among individuals with disabilities.

CDPF will continue actively engaging in international disability affairs, strengthening exchanges and cooperation with U.N. agencies, foreign embassies, and other organizations to enhance the well-being of persons with disabilities worldwide.

France hosted the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris, and Italy will host both the 2025 Special Olympics World Winter Games in Turin and the 2026 Paralympic Winter Games in Milan Cortina. Representatives from both nations' embassies attended the celebration.

Cristina Carenza, deputy head of mission and minister plenipotentiary at the Embassy of Italy in China, celebrated the incredible resilience, strength and determination of persons with disabilities. She said that Italy looks forward to using these upcoming sports events to deepen cooperation with China in areas such as disability sports.

Mr. Romain Jacquet, counselor for health, social affairs, and labor at the French Embassy in China, noted that sports embody the values of equality, respect and inclusion. He emphasized France's commitment to strengthening cooperation with international partners, including China, to build a more inclusive and united world.

The event highlighted the artistic and athletic achievements of people with disabilities while showcasing their creative potential and equal participation in society. Kanasugi Kenji, the Japanese ambassador to China, and Jürg Burri, the Swiss ambassador to China, joined guests in experiencing traditional Chinese handicrafts and folk activities alongside artisans with disabilities. This allowed them to savor the festive atmosphere of the Chinese New Year and appreciate the charm of traditional Chinese culture. The guests joined athletes in friendly matches of wheelchair basketball, wheelchair curling and boccia, creating an atmosphere of warmth and camaraderie.

During the event, Mao Jingdian, a Chinese Paralympic champion in para table tennis, and Wang Zhidong, a member of the Chinese Para Ice Hockey Team, along with outstanding athletes with disabilities from France and Italy, shared stories of perseverance and determination in pursuit of their dreams. The guests also enjoyed a performance by the China Disabled Peoples' Performing Art Troupe.

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