Egyptian first lady Suzan Mubarak said on Thursday that China has made great achievements and set a good example for other developing countries in the world.

Accompanying her husband Egyptian President Muhammed Hosni Mubarak, who is visiting China, Suzan Mubarak gave a speech at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS), China's top think-tank.

The Chinese and Egyptian civilizations, the most ancient, she said, have inspired people throughout the world. Civilizations may differ from each other in values, notions and cultures but people in different countries, ethnic groups or religions should respect each other and resolve disputes through peaceful negotiation and dialogue.

The Egyptians are paying close attention to the Chinese people's glorious achievements and hope to have more constructive and friendly links with the Chinese people, she said.

After her speech, Suzan Mubarak answered questions raised by Chinese social scientists.

With an MA degree in social education, Suzan Mubarak has often led Egyptian delegations to attend international activities concerning women and children's issues and environmental protection.

(People's Daily January 25, 2002)