Minister Counsellor Xie Yongjun attends the Chinese New Year celebration and the opening ceremony of the Dunhuang Exhibition in Palmerston North

2025-01-28 15:01

On January 27, Minister Counsellor Xie Yongjun was invited to the Chinese New Year celebration and opening ceremony of the Dunhuang Exhibition in Palmerston North and made a speech. Around 50 guests were present, including Palmerston North Mayor Grant Smith, Chief Wiremu Te Awe Awe, Vice-Chancellor Professor Jan Thomas of Massey University, and representatives from the local cultural and educational sectors.

Minister Counsellor Xie conveyed Ambassador Wang Xiaolong's best wishes for the Chinese New Year to all the guests, and expressed his gratitude to Mayor Grant Smith and Palmerston North city council for their strong support. He said Dunhuang serves as an exemplary model of the multicultural integration, and illustrated Xi Jinping Thought on Culture, especially the Global Civilization Initiative put forward by President Xi Jinping. He also emphasized the importance of promoting cultural exchanges and cooperation between China and New Zealand.

Mayor Grant Smith, Chief Wiremu Te Awe Awe, and Vice-Chancellor Jan Thomas spoke highly of Dunhuang Art, saying it not only showcases the artistic achievements of ancient China but also acts as a bridge between Eastern and Western cultures, vividly reflecting the integration of diverse civilizations along the ancient Silk Road. They reviewed Palmerston North’s long-term friendly collaborations with China, espeically Palmerston North’s friendship with Guiyang and Kunshan, as well as Massey University’s partnerships with Chinese institutions.

During the event, the guests appreciated the Dunhuang Art Exhibition, and experienced the charm of Chinese culture and art. Local artists gave a brilliant musical performance.