Caracas welcomed the Year of the Fire Horse

The Venezuelan Foreign Minister, Yván Gil and the ambassador of the People’s Republic
china in Venezuela, Lan Hu, led the events held by in the Plaza de La Juventud in Caracas and at the National Art Gallery, to celebrate the Lunar New Year and welcome the Year of the Fire Horse, in an event that combined, on the occasion of this date, dances, music and artistic expressions from both countries.

Venezuela celebrates the beginning of the Lunar New Year “with the libertarian spirit stronger than ever,” the country’s chancellor, Yván Gil, said this Tuesday. “It is an opportunity for everyone to be able to commemorate in a complex time,” he added.

For his part, the Chinese ambassador highlighted that today’s event represented a fusion and exchange between cultures “and traditional civilizations”, while pointing out that bilateral relations “have continued to advance substantially, with cooperation in various areas” that is proceeding, as he said, in an “orderly manner.”

Already in the square, Ambassador Lan Hu came to sign or “illuminate” the head of the dragon (painting its eyes) is a fundamental ritual in the Chinese New Year and related festivals that symbolizes giving it life, awakening its power and attracting good luck, prosperity and health.

This act traditionally ensures that the dragon wards off evil spirits and negative energies. The dragon represents strength, wisdom and success, yang element, associated with imperial power and considered an amulet of good luck, strength and protection.

The dragon moved through the square dancing a traditional dance to welcome the new lunar year. As part of a cultural exchange, a group of traditional Venezuelan dances performed the dance of La Culebra de Ipure, a traditional indigenous dance of Chaima origin in honor of San Antonio de Padua. This cultural manifestation simulates the movement of a snake and tells an oral story about fertility and the earth.

The occasion was propitious for the presentation of a tasting of Chinese gastronomy where exhibitors presented typical dishes and shared with the attendees during the celebration of the Lunar New Year.

The Year of the Horse is a strong call to perseverance, courage and unity. For Chinathe road ahead may not be easy, but the spirit of the galloping horse will always propel the nation forward.

Earlier, through her social networks, the president in charge of the Republic, Delcy Rodríguez, today sent a congratulatory message to the people of the world who celebrate the beginning of the Lunar New Year.

The head of state expressed her hope that this period will bring with it new opportunities to consolidate peace and comprehensive development. The official message highlights the importance of brotherhood between nations as a fundamental axis of Venezuelan diplomacy. Venezuela thus reaffirms its respect for the ancient traditions of oriental peoples and its commitment to cultural diversity on the international stage.