Remarks during the Reception of Distinguished Guests from Various Countries on National Day Eve [1] (October 1, 1957) When talking with Tawfiq Yaz, head of the Syrian journalists’ delegation, Chairman Mao extended his best wishes for Syria’s independence, prosperity, and strength, and for its people to triumph over imperialist schemes of aggression.
He said, “The peoples of the entire world stand in solidarity with you, supporting your struggle against imperialist aggression.
People are delighted to see the unity among Syria, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia; all Arab peoples must unite.”
Chairman Mao also asked Tawfiq Yaz to convey his greetings to the Syrian president, prime minister, and all those fighting for national independence.
The head of the Syrian journalists’ delegation expressed gratitude for the Chinese people’s support of Syria and relayed the Syrian president’s greetings to Chairman Mao, adding that he hoped the Syrian president might one day meet with Chairman Mao.
Chairman Mao replied that such a meeting was quite likely.
During his meeting with Egyptian guests, Chairman Mao requested that they convey his greetings to President Nasser and wished the Egyptian people well.
He also spoke with a group of young Americans, expressing his hope that the peoples of China and the United States could enjoy friendly relations in peace.
Printed according to the October 2, 1957, news release in the People’s Daily.

Note [1] This is an excerpt from Xinhua News Agency’s report titled “Chairman Mao Receives Distinguished Guests from Around the World on Tiananmen Gate Tower on National Day Eve.”