Spring Fair brought charm of Chinese culture to Chisinau; Chinese Ambassador: “Let us continue cultural exchanges and cooperation”

Residents of the capital have discovered the charm and diversity of Chinese culture at the Spring Fair – Festival of Chinese Traditions, dedicated to the Chinese New Year and organized by the Confucius Institute at the Free International University of Moldova (ULIM). The event took place on February 28, at the Palace of the Republic, turning the venue into a genuine corner of Oriental culture.

The event was also attended by Chinese Ambassador to Moldova Dong Zhihua, who delivered a congratulatory message on the occasion of the Chinese New Year. The diplomat emphasized that this holiday was the most important one in the traditional Chinese calendar. She also said that, last year, the Chinese New Year had been included in UNESCO’s List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

“More and more places around the world are celebrating this holiday. This year, the Triumphal Arch in the center of Chisinau was illuminated in ‘Chinese red’, enhancing the festive atmosphere. At today’s fair, you will be able to admire a rich variety of Chinese folk traditions, culinary experiences, calligraphy demonstrations, as well as music and dance performances, having the opportunity to feel up close, in an immersive way, the unique charm of Chinese culture. Looking to the new year, let us move forward together and continue cultural exchanges and cooperation. May the friendship between China and Moldova blossom like the snowdrop, spreading its fragrance and remaining forever alive,” the ambassador said.

The ambassador noted that, according to the lunar calendar, the Year of the Horse had begun on February 17 and the festivities would continue until the Lantern Festival on March 3.

In her speech, Dong Zhihua also referred to the upcoming Martisor holiday, stressing that, although cultures differ in their forms of expression, the aspiration for happiness and prosperity is common to all. She expressed her wish to strengthen cultural exchanges between China and Moldova and wished success to the organizers and prosperity in the new year.

The festival offered the public an authentic journey into the universe of Asian traditions through music, dance, gastronomy and customs specific to China. Teachers and students of the Confucius Institute gave a concert featuring artistic moments inspired by Chinese cultural heritage, showcasing the refinement and richness of a millennia-old civilization.

Participants tasted traditional Chinese dishes and took part in games and interactive activities, discovering through direct experience defining elements of Chinese culture. Admission tickets included vouchers for tastings and participation in games, giving visitors the opportunity to fully experience the festive atmosphere.