After over two years of service in Houston, Consul General Qiao Hong is about to say goodbye to Houstonian. On September 4, 2009, Consul General Qiao Hong held her farewell reception at the office building of the Chinese Consulate General. About 400 guests from Houston political, economic and cultural circles and from Chinese community attended the reception.

In her farewell remarks, Consul General Qiao recalls the memorable moments shared with Houstonians, esp. at the event of Beijing Olympic Games, Sichuan earthquake, Hurricane Ike and the global financial crisis. She is impressed by the goodwill and kindness of the Houstonians towards the Chinese people. She expresses her heartfelt thanks to them and says that she will cherish their friendship for the coming years. She hopes all her friends will give continued support to her successor.

The audience gives a long and warm applause to Consul General Qiao. Congressman Al Green presents Qiao a US national flag which flew over the US Capitol in her name to show respect for her excellent job. City Councilman Peter Brown on behalf of Mayor Bill White awards Qiao the Honorary Citizen of Houston and Goodwill Ambassador. US-China People’s Friendship Association Houston Chapter also grants Friendship Ambassador Award to Qiao. Rick Perry, Governor of Texas and Senator Kay Hutchison have recognition letters sent to Qiao as well.