LAGOS – Mr Liu Kan, Consul-General of the People’s Republic of China in Lagos, has restated his government’s commitment to strengthening closer cultural ties with Nigerians in the years ahead.
Liu disclosed this in Lagos at the performance of a Chinese Cultural Troupe to celebrate the Chinese New Year, popularly called the Spring Festival in Lagos, with about 1,000 Chinese in attendance.
The consul-general said that the invitation of the troupe to Lagos was to enable the Chinese community celebrate the Spring Festival with their families and Nigerian friends.
“The Chinese New Year, known as the Spring Festival, is the most important traditional festival for all Chinese, with more than a 4,000-year history. It’s a time for family reunions.
“We believe that friendship between Chinese and Nigerians should continue to grow stronger through close interactions between our people.
“We believe that with the invitation and performance of this troupe here in Lagos, cultural ties between Chinese and Nigerians will be enhanced.
“We look forward to more cultural exchanges between our two countries in the years ahead,’’ he said.
Liu commended the Overseas Chinese Affairs Office of the Chinese State Council and the China Overseas Exchange Association, for bringing the troupe to Lagos, to further bring the Chinese and Nigerians together.
Mr Lewis Tung, Chairman of Western Africa and Nigeria Overseas Chinese Joint Association said that the troupe was a team of top singing and dancing talents from China.
According to him, the troupe has only performed in few countries across the world.
“This year, they have identified Lagos, Nigeria, as an important destination, and it is really a rare chance for Nigerians to experience Chinese culture through music and live dancing.
It is a wonderful opportunity to enhance further cultural exchanges, as well as cultivate stronger bonds between our great nations,’’ he added
Mr Liu Kan
