The Chinese Lunar New Year Spring festival will be marked in Rwanda for the third time this year, with focus on strengthening cultural ties between the two countries.

This was revealed by the Chinese Ambassador to Rwanda, Pan Hejun, during his briefing of the media in Kigali on Thursday.

According to Amb. Pan, the event aims at promoting cultural relations and enhancing mutual understanding between Rwanda and China.

"We hope it will bring out the rich cultural elements to the people of Rwanda and promote a mutual understanding between China and Rwanda,” Pan said.

He cited other cultural activities that have taken place involving both countries like the ‘Kungfu Wushu’ events that happen annually to which the Chinese embassy contributes.

The event, that features several performances, is being organised by the Chinese embassy in collaboration with the Ministry of Sports and Culture.

The event has been celebrated in China for the past four thousand years as the New Year Festival, according to their lunar calendar.

It is the grandest and most exciting moment for the people of China who use it as a get-together opportunity for families.

It also includes other exciting activities such as making dumplings, posting New Year couplets, making New Year visits, among others.

The event has now spread to many countries, including Korea, Japan and Vietnam.

A group of 30 artistes from China, including singers, dancers, acrobats and drama performers, will perform at the College of Education of University of Rwanda on January 28 and 29.

Rwandan ballet dancers are also expected to feature on the same event.

Although the festival will be celebrated for just two days in Kigali, it is a 15-day event in China that is characterised by massive celebrations.

This is the third time for the event to be marked in Rwanda.

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