Chinese New Year: Prime Minister attends the ceremony in Yangon

Chinese Traditional Lunar New Year Festival 2023 took palce at National Indoor Stadium (1) Thuwunna in Yangon on Saturday along with attendance of Chairman of the State Administration Council, Chinese Ambassador to Myanmar, Chairman of Myanmar Chinese Chamber of Commerce and relevant officials.

Before being the festival, Friendly Basketball Match including Chinese Embassy Basketball Team, Youth Basketball team and the Myanmar Basketball former players Team was held. After enjoying the friendly basketball matches, the Prime Minister and wife and attendees proceeded to the site where the Chinese New Year Festival occasion. 

Vice Chairman, Myanmar Basketball Federation, Maung Maugn Myint said "We initially organized the match from 8th to 17th January. Before 17th, under the instructions of Yangon region government, and Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs, we hold the festival today along with the celebration of Chinese New Year. A total 38 teams participated in the competition. It truly promotes basketball sport among the public and creates the good opportunity for the athletes."

After formal opening of the festival, the Prime Minister and Chinese Ambassador to Myanmar Mr. Chen Hai unveiled the festival by pressing the button. They later enjoyed the performance by the Chinese Traditional Dragon Dance Troupes.

The Prime Minister and party later viewed the Chinese traditional cultural booths and shops, followed by the display of fireworks. 

Chairman, China-Myanmar Friendship Association, Sein Win Aung said "The Friendship is boosted through this festival. As it is a year of rabbit in Chinese Calendar, it considers no making danger, stay peace and avoid of eating meat. So, I hope those good signs can lead to a scenario in peace and harmony in 2023. More friendship relation between the two communities is going to be conducted for the better future."

At the dinner reception, the Prime Minister and wife took part in Chinese Traditional Eye-Pointing Ceremony. There, the Prime Minister delivered New Year messages followed by the speech of Chinese Ambassador and Chairman of Chinese Chamber of Commerce.

Vice Chairman, Myanmar-Chinese Chamber of Commerce, Tin Maung Nyunt said "Last 4 years before COVID-19, we annually hold the festival at China town. In the pandemic period, we have silenced. This year, now COVID is under control, we hold the festival with collective efforts. Chinese people in Myanmar really want to enjoy it. I am so pleased and grateful to see holding the festival successfully."

The Prime Minister and party later enjoyed the dinner while the Chinese Instrumental Troupe staged with entertainments.

Then, the prizes were presented to the winning basketball teams. It was followed by the performance of Chinese traditional dance troupes and artists.