To celebrate the Chinese New year, a joint Turkmen-Chinese concert was held at the Palace of mukams of the State cultural centre of Turkmenistan. The musical program «Melodies of the Silk Road – a joyful spring festival» brought together artists from both countries, offering audiences a unique opportunity to experience the rich heritage of the Chinese people and feel the atmosphere of ancient Eastern traditions.
An extensive thematic exhibition, decorated with red Chinese lanterns, was organised in the foyer of the Palace. Visitors had the opportunity to participate in master classes on Chinese calligraphy, the art of painting traditional masks, and cutting out appliqués symbolising good luck, happiness, and harmony. For active participation, guests received exclusive souvenirs as a keepsake. In addition, everyone could enjoy Chinese cuisine.
The official opening of the event took place with the participation of the Chargé d'Affaires of the Embassy of the People's Republic of China in Turkmenistan, Zhong Hua, and the Minister of culture of Turkmenistan, Atageldi Shamyradov.
In her speech, Ms. Zhong Hua emphasised that the spring Festival – Chinese New year – is a symbol of renewal and family unity, which was rightfully included in the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2024. She paid special attention to the image of the horse, which in Chinese culture personifies energy and success.
– When talking about horses, it is impossible not to remember the legendary Ahal-Teke horse. This «heavenly horse», which has become the pride of the Turkmen people, also occupies a special place in the history of China. More than two thousand years ago, Ahal-Teke horses arrived in China along the Great Silk Road, becoming a living symbol of our friendship, − the diplomat noted.
It is symbolic that this joint celebration is taking place in 2026, which has been declared in our country as the year of «Independent neutral Turkmenistan – the homeland of purposeful winged horses». This is not only a tribute to history, but also evidence that, under the wise leadership of the leaders of the two states, humanitarian exchanges between our countries are becoming increasingly close and fruitful.
The musical part of the evening was opened by the Chinese art group Touchroad. The artists presented virtuoso numbers on folk instruments and vibrant choreographic productions. The audience was truly delighted by the fragments of the Sichuan opera – the famous show «Changing masks» – an art bordering on magic.
The Turkmen side responded no less inspiredly. The State symphony orchestra of Turkmenistan performed the immortal works of Nury Halmammedov. The highlight of evening was a joint performance by Chinese soloists accompanied by a Turkmen orchestra, demonstrating the absolute harmony of the two cultures.
The final chord of the concert was the composition «China in lights», filling the hall with light and hope. At the end of the evening, representatives of the Chinese delegation expressed hope for continued creative dialogue and invited Turkmen artists to perform return concerts in Shanghai.
