"In Chinese culture, the horse symbolizes striving and progress," said Yang Wanming, president of the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries.

"We cherish a deep sense of gratitude to friends from all countries for their invaluable contributions to the cause of China's revolution, construction and reform over the years, as well as their sincere friendship with the Chinese people," he said when addressing the event.

The CPAFFC is ready to work with all its international friends to "stay true to its original aspirations and join hands as inheritors of historical memories", Yang said.

The CPAFFC wants to tell the touching stories of the older generation of international friends who stood with the Chinese people through thick and thin, shared weal and woe and strove side-by-side, in a tribute to their spirit of internationalism, Yang added.

"Together, let us forge ahead to carry forward and develop the cause of people-to-people friendship, enhance mutual understanding and affinity between the Chinese people and the people of other countries, and advance the building of a community with a shared future for humanity," he said.

zhangyunbi@chinadaily.com.cn