Chinese envoy leads New Year celebrations

China’s Ambassador to Kenya Guo Haiyan has called on the Kenyan government to implement the Global Civilisation Initiative.

In her maiden duty, Ms Guo said that China, Kenya and other countries should promote the harmonious coexistence of different civilisations.

 “China actively implements the Global Civilisation Initiative and advocates exchanges, mutual learning, inheritance and development among different civilizations. Different civilisations could learn from each other, complement each other and benefit each other,” said Guo.

 Speaking yesterday in Nairobi during the Chinese New Year Gala, Guo said the Spring Festival contains cultural genes and emotions that have been transmitted within the Chinese nation for thousands of years.

 “This festival embodies the common human aspiration for a better life, happy family, social inclusion, and harmonious coexistence between man and nature. The Spring Festival could arouse the shared resonance of friends from different cultural backgrounds in the world, demonstrating the inclusiveness and diversity of the Chinese culture,” said Guo.

 The envoy, further expressed that the Spring Festival is a grand traditional festival of the Chinese nation, with the deepest connotation, the richest content, the largest scale of participation, and the widest influence.

According to the ambassador, the Spring Festival has become a symbol of Chinese culture that is generally accepted and appreciated by the world.

“About one-fifth of the world’s population celebrates the Spring Festival in different ways, and many countries and regions list it as a holiday,” she said.

During the event, artistes presented cultural performances such as Shaolin Kung Fu (martial arts), acrobatics, Henan opera, and dough figurine. Kenyan students from the Confucius Institutes, presented a feast of Chinese culture.

“The Year of the Snake is coming. In Chinese culture, the snake is a symbol of wisdom, representing careful consideration and keen insight. The snake is also a symbol of vitality, implying endless life and prosperity. “

 While thanking the overseas Chinese community in Kenya for hosting yesterday’s Gala, Guo expressed confidence that Kenyans and Chinese will carry forward the fine traditions of patriotism, love of hometown and solidarity

She said that ‘of all the festivals the most important one is the New Year, and of all the four seasons the first one is spring.