The Chinese Ambassador to Lebanon, Wang Kejian hosted a concert at the Casino du Liban on the occasion of the Chinese New Year 2019 and the Spring Holiday, in the presence of Ali Samad, representing caretaker Culture Minister Ghattas Khoury, and a crowd of MPs and ranking dignitaries.

"Spring folk customs and traditions have become a common cultural treasure of humanity as well as an intangible cultural heritage of China. During this holiday, we bring celebrations to Lebanon within the framewor and hope to share with you the joy of holidays," said the ambassador.

"This year marks the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China. This anniversary marks an important historical milestone in realizing the great renaissance of the Chinese nation. From this historical point, the Chinese people strive to build a well-off society in a comprehensive manner and build China into a modern and strong socialist state. Comprehensively, the Chinese people will work with the people of the world to push forward development and research in ways of cooperation and seek to build a society of common destiny for mankind," said Kejian.

"Rapprochement between peoples is the basis of communication between nations. Culture, however, is the link between peoples. In recent years, communication and cooperation between China and Lebanon have been constantly intensifying and Lebanese friends are increasingly interested in learning Chinese and learning about Chinese culture. The Lebanese National Institute of Music is designed with a Chinese donation. In this new year, we look forward to working with the Lebanese people to make a more diverse cultural exchange that brings us closer together," he concluded.