VALLETTA, Feb. 11 -- Chinese and Maltese officials here in Malta on Wednesday evening at a reception that greeting the upcoming Spring Festival, said 2014 had special significance for the development of bilateral relations, and the two states would deepen ties during the Year of the Goat.

"I would like to extend warm welcome all of you, in particular to Honorable Prime Minister Dr. Joseph Muscat and Honorable Minister for Culture, your kind presence is a strong testimony of importance attached by your government to the excellent relations between China and Malta", said Chinese Ambassador to Malta Cai Jinbiao when addressing the Spring Festival reception organized by the Chinese Embassy in Malta.

The ambassador said new opportunities in 2015 emerged for the development of relations between China and Malta, the two sides would use these opportunities, stimulate the development of bilateral relations, and move forward together.

Spring Festival, as the most significant moment for Chinese people to gather with family members, is also celebrated abroad by Chinese nationals.

The Chinese Embassy to Malta also made a variety of Chinese dishes and provided an arena for the Chinese people here to share ideas and experiences with each other.

More than 100 honored guests and celebrities attended the reception to celebrate the upcoming Chinese Lunar New Year.