On 12 February 2025, the Secretariat of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, with the support of the SCO China Committee on Good-Neighbourliness, Friendship, and Cooperation (GNFCC), hosted a cultural evening celebrating the Spring Festival and the Lantern Festival.
In his welcoming address, SCO Secretary-General Nurlan Yermekbayev extended his congratulations on the arrival of the Lunar New Year and the traditional Lantern Festival. He highlighted that the core values of these celebrations closely align with the principles of the Shanghai Spirit.
The Secretary-General highlighted that the leaders of SCO member states have consistently supported the expansion of cooperation in culture, art, and the preservation of historical and spiritual heritage. This event serves as a tangible example of how these strategic priorities are being put into action.
Meanwhile, GNFCC Deputy Chair Cui Li noted that in December 2024, the Spring Festival was officially added to the UNESCO World Heritage List. This recognition is expected to further enhance cultural exchanges between China and other countries.
More than 150 guests attended the festive evening, including heads and representatives of diplomatic missions from SCO countries, members of the GNFCC, the Secretariat, and their families. The most excited participants, of course, were the children.
The vibrant programme featured captivating musical and dance performances by both children’s and adult creative groups, along with engaging workshops and art sessions on Chinese calligraphy, artistic carving, jiaozi dumpling making, and more.