On February 12, the event "China in the Eyes of Diplomats: A Tour in Fengtai" took place at China-chic Fashion Street in Changxindian, Fengtai District, Beijing. Nearly 200 participants, including ambassadors and other diplomats from 67 countries such as Argentina, The Bahamas, Bulgaria, and Cuba, as well as representatives from three international media outlets, along with their families, gathered in Fengtai to discover the charm of the traditional Chinese culture. They watched captivating dragon dances, savored yuanxiao (sweet glutinous rice balls), and delighted in Peking Opera performances.

A group photo taken during the event

The Spring Festival of 2025 (the Yisi Year of the Snake) marks the first to be celebrated since the Spring Festival's inclusion on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List. Diplomats visited the ancient town of Changxindian to celebrate this special Spring Festival, enjoying themselves in the joyous and harmonious atmosphere of the Lantern Festival. The event featured a diverse range of activities, including those associated with traditional folk customs, Peking Opera performances, fashion shows, and a creative China-chic market.

A folk performance at the event

"I am truly delighted to participate in this event during the Lantern Festival. It allowed me to gain a deeper insight into the daily lives of Beijing residents. The children at the runway show, where they were dressed in the traditional Chinese attire, left a lasting impression on me. The show also saw local people participating, and I found they were even more elegant than some of the professional models. This event has enhanced my understanding of Chinese culture and allowed us to learn about the customs and traditions of the Lantern Festival in a more relaxed and enjoyable way," said Andrey Tehov, the Bulgarian Ambassador to China.

The fashion show of the event

The fashion show of the event

"Cultural exchanges and face-to-face communication are essential and serve as foundations of diplomacy. This event provided me with a wonderful opportunity to experience the local culture and the warmth of the people in Fengtai firsthand. Chinese people are incredibly hospitable, and I really enjoyed indulging myself in the rich and colorful cultural heritage of China through such an engaging event," said Paulette Bethel, the Bahamian Ambassador to China.

(Source: CRI Online)