Barry Shying (2nd L), offspring of Mak Sai Ying, or John Shying, the first known Chinese born settler to Australia, attends a gala to mark the 200th anniversary of Chinese migration to Australia in Sydney, Australia, May 20, 2018. (Xinhua/Bai Xuefei)

SYDNEY, May 21 (Xinhua) -- More than 2,000 people from all walks of life gathered here Sunday night at the Town Hall of Sydney, capital of Australia's New South Wales state to celebrate the 200th anniversary of Chinese migration to Australia.

Tong Xuejun, deputy consul general of the Chinese Consulate-General in Sydney, lauded the role of overseas Chinese in promoting exchanges between Australia and China.

"Overseas Chinese have become bridges for enhancing understanding and friendship between the two countries," Tong said at the event, adding, "China and Australia have deepened their exchanges in various fields such as economy, culture, science and technology."

Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, federal opposition leader Bill Shorten, and premiers and chief ministers of state and territory across Australia also sent congratulatory messages for the event.

In 1818, Mak Sai Ying, or John Shying, arrived in Sydney and became the first known Chinese born settler to Australia.

"For 200 years, Chinese migrants ... have worked with other ethnicities and contributed immensely in building a prosperous, affluent and harmonious Australia," Huang Xiangmo, president of the organizing committee in commemoration of the anniversary, said at the event.

Parliamentary Secretary to the New South Wales Cabinet John Sidoti, representing the state's premier, said the story of Chinese migrants is unique and he was proud that so many Chinese migrants had chosen and continue to choose to settle in the state.

"Chinese migrants and their families both recent and well established are actively involved in every aspect in our society, this contribution is deeply valued."

Sunday's gala was presented in four main segments - Pioneers, Endeavors, Diversity and Working Together - to highlight the history of the Chinese migrants, with guest speakers reflecting on the history of Australian Chinese.

Various ethnic groups including the Aboriginal people also presented performances during the night to highlight Australia's cultural diversity.