BEIRUT — Chinese ambassador to Lebanon Wang Kejian said China has provided aid worth 550 million yuan ($83 million) to the country since 2010.

His remarks came at a reception in Beruit on Sept 28 to celebrate the incoming 67th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.

China has also provided humanitarian aid worth 45 million yuan ($6.8 million) and $2 million in cash to help the Lebanese government shelter the Syrian refugees in the country, the ambassador said.

Meanwhile, he said Lebanon could play a unique role in China’s Belt and Road initiative.

“Lebanon, despite its small area, has great potential in trade, banking, media and publishing,” Wang said.

On peacekeeping missions in Lebanon, he said, China has so far sent 410 troops to the country.

The year 2016 marks the 45th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Lebanon.

According to the ambassador, delegations from the two countries have paid a number of mutual visits for training and study in 2016.