On the evening of February 2, the Oslo Concert Hall in Norway was well-decorated and filled with a joyful and peaceful festival atmosphere. The "Happy Chinese New Year" gala, celebrating this year’s Spring Festival and the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Norway, co-organized by the Chinese Embassy in Norway and the Norwegian Chinese community, made a stunning debut in Oslo. Ambassador Hou Yue, Mr. Vebjørn Dysvik, Director-General of the Regional Department of the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, along with a total of nearly 1,400 people watched the performance, including former Norwegian dignitaries, diplomatic envoys, overseas Chinese, and representatives of Chinese enterprises and oversea students in Norway. 

Ambassador Hou first extended New Year’s greetings to the guests and said that over the past year, China has experienced a steady economic recovery and growth, with high-quality development making solid progress. China-Norway exchanges have been fully re-boosted after the epidemic, and pragmatic cooperation between the two sides has maintained a strong momentum. The year 2024 coincides with the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China and the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Norway. The development of China-Norway relations harbors great new potential. China's development is intertwined with the world, and global prosperity requires China's participation. We advocate for an equal and orderly multipolar world and a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization, and are always willing to cooperate with Norway towards a bright future for China-Norway relations. China also stands ready to work hand in hand with all countries to build a community with a shared future for mankind.

Mr. Dysvik said in his speech that he was happy to celebrate the Year of the Dragon together with Chinese friends. Norway was one of the first countries to recognize the People’s Republic of China. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations 70 years ago, bilateral relations have continued to develop and friendship between our two peoples has deepened. The two sides share similar positions on major issues such as safeguarding multilateralism and supporting peace and stability. Culture is an important part of China-Norway relations and a bridge that enhances mutual understanding. We look forward to more cultural exchanges from both sides to jointly celebrate the long-term friendship and close cooperation between our two countries.

Artists from the China National Opera and Dance Drama Theater and local communities jointly brought an art feast to the audience. The performance kicked off with the group dance “Decorating with Lanterns and Streamers”, followed by the cheerfully and enthusiastically vocal solo of “Mayila Variations” and “I'm Like Snowflakes Coming From the Sky”, the agile and elegant group dance “Spirit of Water” and dance duo “Tenderness under the Moon”. The soulful voice of artists from both countries singing “You and Me” and “Friendship Lasts Forever” brought the gala to a climax. The concert hall was packed with no empty seats. At the end of the performance, the artists were given a standing ovation. 

Many audience were deeply impressed and fascinated by the breathtaking stage and superb skills of the artists. They said that the performance fully demonstrated the unique charm of Chinese culture, and they looked forward to seeing more high-level Chinese performances in Norway. They sincerely wish the Chinese people a happy New Year, and that relations between the two countries would reach a new height.

After the gala, the Chinese Embassy held a New Year reception. Over 300 guests including representatives from all walks of life in Norway, diplomatic envoys, and overseas Chinese attended the reception, sharing thoughts on China-Norway friendship and celebrating the New Year together.