For updates on Latvia immigration and Latvia news: On February 28, 2015, the "Chinese New Year Lantern Festival for Teachers and Students in Latvia" was held at the auditorium of the University of Latvia, organized by the Confucius Institute at the University of Latvia, with representatives from 13 Chinese language teaching sites and the Latvian Martial Arts Association participating in the performances. The chairman of the Latvia-China Friendship Group in the Latvian Parliament, Potapkins, the Secretary of State of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Bedgo, and officials from the Ministry of Education, along with nearly 300 guests from Xinhua News Agency and the Chinese Association, attended the event. The Chinese Ambassador to Latvia, Yang Guoqiang, and his wife, Wang Yi, were present.
The venue was beautifully decorated, creating a festive atmosphere. Professor Shang Quanyu, the Chinese director, and Professor Bedgo, the foreign director, warmly welcomed the guests. Ambassador Yang Guoqiang and Vice President of the University of Latvia, Kang Geluo, extended New Year greetings to the teachers and students.
In a joyful and relaxed atmosphere, the Chinese teachers and students performed recitations of ancient and modern Chinese poetry, challenged the difficult "Shishi Shishi Shih", and brought beautiful songs such as "Great China" and "Chasing the Moon with Colorful Clouds". They also presented creative skits like "Chinese Character Museum" and "New Snow White", as well as the dance "Happy Poverty". The children from the Latvian Martial Arts Association showcased impressive Chinese Kung Fu. Additionally, painter Chen Cheng from the Chinese Association painted live for the audience, and magician Fox from Ukraine performed amazing magic tricks. The entire program was innovative and entertaining, with continuous applause from the audience. The attendees also enthusiastically participated in the lantern riddle activity and enjoyed Chinese cuisine.
Latvia is the first country in the Baltic region to establish and promote Chinese language teaching, with approximately 4,000 people currently learning Chinese or practicing Chinese martial arts. There are nearly 20 Chinese language teaching sites in major schools and 10 Chinese martial arts clubs.
