China, Culture, Direct Speech, Forum, Latvia
International Internet Magazine. Baltic States news & analytics
Thursday, 28.03.2024, 14:52
Chinese New Year 2012 celebrated in Riga
Hu Yeshun. Photo by Y. Zhitluhin. |
Distinguished guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Good evening.
It is my pleasure to be the co-organizer of this wonderful Chinese culture event on the occasion of the Chinese New Year. The Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, starts from the first day till the fifteenth day of the first lunar month of the year. However, the Chinese people spend the whole first lunar month in a jubilant festival atmosphere.
It has been more than 3000 years’ history for the Chinese people to celebrate their most important and traditional festival – the Spring Festival. Although the way and form of celebrating the Spring Festival have been changing along with the passing of the times, the theme of the Spring Festival remains unchanged. That is the reunion of the whole family, share of the happiness and good expectations for the future.
The year of 2012 is the year of Dragon. In Chinese culture, Dragon is the symbol of power, dignity, success and good luck. The Chinese people usually name those with great ambition, extraordinary ability and considerable achievements as “dragons among the people”. Moreover, the Chinese nation regards ourselves as descendants of the dragon. As the year of Dragon comes with such wonderful metaphor, I would like to wish all of you. (As energetic as a dragon and every success in your endeavor).
Ladies and Gentlemen,
In the year of 2011, the relationship between China and Latvia has been
developed considerably. Both sides held a series of activities on the occasion
of the 20th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations
between China and Latvia. Art and culture organizations from both sides exchanged
visits and brought high level art performances to both peoples. As the Chinese people
are willing to embrace the world, the Chinese culture and art are now moving
towards the world stage and enriching people’s culture life. The local and
civil exchanges between China and Latvia are both frequent and fruitful. The
idea of developing the relationship of mutual benefit and friendship between
China and Latvia has been well received by both peoples. I would like to
stress, the exchanges in the area of arts and humanities will constantly enrich
the contents of China-Latvian relationship and promote its coordinated
development.
In the end, I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to the organizer of this event—International Culture Center and friends from all sectors who dedicated to promoting China and Latvia friendly relationship. I wish you all success in the year of Dragon and happiness of your family!