Chinese Cultural Festival Opens in Oslo

The Chinese cultural festival opened on Saturday in Norway's capital of Oslo as part of both countries' efforts of to boost ties and friendship.

Around 1,000 people, including Chinese living or studying in Norway and local Norwegians, took part in the opening ceremony in downtown Oslo, holding the two countries' national flags as well as other types of colorful flags, said reports reaching.

Norway's Prime Minister Jens Stoltenberg sent a congratulatory message to the festival, saying the event will serve as a platform for displaying the Chinese culture to the Norwegians and enhancing the people-to-people friendship between both countries.

Every nation has its own unique culture, and the rich and colorful culture of China has been part of the world civilization, said Chinese Ambassador to Norway, Gao Jian.

He went on to say that cultures should learn from one another, and the Chinese cultural festival is expected to boost the understanding and friendship between the Chinese and Norwegian people.

The festival, which will last into November, is the second of its kind held in Norway, following the fist one in 2004.

During the festival, audience will be able to see Chinese movies, performances by Chinese artists, as well as an array of painting, national costumes, musical instruments and modern Chinese arts exhibitions.（Source:Xinhua)