Proud to return for second China stay

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The two countries have a long and complex history, being close allies during the 1960s and early 1970s, before drifting apart in 1978.

Xhani said the relationship has had its "ups and downs", but neither side has forgotten the friendship and cooperation of that time, which continue to inspire current relations and cooperation.

"And I and my generation cannot forget and feel grateful for the help of the Chinese people and the economic contribution of China in the construction of Albania."

Ties between the two countries are again strengthening, as evidenced by an increase in trade volume, economic exchanges and, most importantly, people-to-people exchanges. The number of tourists is growing. Chinese and Albanian authors continue to be translated and published in each other's countries. And last November, a Confucius Institute was officially opened in Tirana, Albania's capital.

"Now, relations are more cooperative," Xhani says. "Albania is a very attractive country for foreign investors and in this framework Chinese investors and businesspeople are welcomed in the Albanian market."

Although Albania is only a small country, covering an area of just more than 28,700 square kilometers and has a population of only 3 million, Xhani said the country is well-known in China, thanks to their historical friendship. Albanian movies from the 1960s through the 1970s are, even now, very popular with the Chinese.

"If we use a taxi in Beijing, when the driver gets to know we are Albanian, what often happens is he starts to sing songs from Albanian movies.

"Being Albanian, from a small country, and for your country to be well-known in China, in such a big country, gives me a very good feeling."

She and her family love to explore Beijing and travel throughout China as often as possible. She says she wishes she had 48 hours in each day to see all there is to see and do here.

"I'm impressed with the 5,000 years of culture they have here, and I have had the chance to see many places," she says. "It's something I won't forget."