Many cities across the world have hosted vibrant Spring Festival celebrations to mark the Year of the Horse and strengthen cultural ties with China.
The Russian capital of Moscow is holding large-scale Chinese New Year celebrations for the third consecutive year. Since Chinese New Year's Eve, popular sites such as the Manezh Square have featured daily festive markets and cultural performances. In addition, Spring-Festival themed metro trains are in operation, and iconic landmarks across the city have been illuminated in “China Red”.
"I'm very proud of my country and that we can be friends. And it is such a pleasure for us to meet the Chinese people and to speak with them. And of course it will be better for our relationships between our countries," said Apollinaria, a Russian visitor.
Meanwhile, the Chinese Embassy in Venezuela hosted an event to celebrate the Spring Festival at the National Art Gallery in Caracas, attracting local audiences eager to experience traditional Chinese culture.
"The Chinese and Venezuelan peoples are friends. We learned about Chinese cuisine and the dragon dance performance. Our people are very happy to be here. We send our best wishes for the Chinese New Year," said Colmenares, a Venezuelan attendee.
The spirit of the Chinese New Year also reached Europe, where the Chinese Embassy in Belgium organized a fair for Chinese New Year in the city of Dinant. The event saw bustling crowds enjoying a variety of traditional activities and temple fair stalls.
"Belgium and China enjoy a very close and friendly relationship. On behalf of Belgium, I would like to extend my sincere greetings to everyone and wish you a Happy New Year!" said David Clarinval, deputy Prime Minister of Belgium.
Cultural celebrations held in cities abroad to mark Chinese New Year
