Dear Mr. Gazaliyev!
I would like to inform you that I retired from the post of General Director Hanban and the Chairman of Confucius Institute headquarters from 28 October. In accordance with the principles of the Chinese government, my retirement age is 60 years, so I worked 2 extra years. However, I will continue to work as a counselor of the State Council and as a member of the International Committee of the Chinese people’s political consultative conference.
I worked for 12 years as Director General of Hanban. According to the Chinese zodiac, I have completed the full cycle, which is the longest one. In the past 12 years, I have received tremendous support from the leaders of universities worldwide, especially from you. Without your cooperation, Confucius Institute would never have functioned so successfully. Therefore, I would like to express my most sincere gratitude.
I hope that you will continue to support Confucius Institute and keep good relations with Hanban.
Best regards,
Key Lin,
Counselor of the State Council of China,
member of the National Committee CPPCC