2025 Spring Festival: Chinese embassy in Havana celebrates Lunar New Year
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Chinese New Year celebrations are taking place around the world including Cuba. Havana's Chinese community is welcoming the Year of the Snake with some long-standing cultural traditions. CGTN's Luis Chirino has more from Havana. 

A colorful show of Chinese art is on display at different sites around the capital, all to usher in the Lunar New Year.

Marcos Antonio Tamames is an expert in the study of preserving and interpreting culture. He told CGTN the Chinese New Year celebrations here connect the past, present and future of the Chinese community on the island.

MARCOS ANTONIO TAMAMES, Expert in Patrimony Studies "There was a historic process of Chinese settlement in Havana, which included the expected advent of the Lunar New Year, as a way to recall the Chinese tradition of predicting good luck over the coming 12 months. This is a family feast that prevails today in the Chinese community at Havana Chinatown."

Havana's Chinatown, the epicenter of Chinese Spring and Lunar New Year celebrations, has preserved and promoted Chinese culture over the years.

MARCOS ANTONIO TAMAMES, Expert in Patrimony Studies "What makes Havana Chinatown so special Well, it started as group of immigrants who adapted to Cuban (life), contributing to it and making it their own, so this partnership gave Chinese traditions a particular space in town."

Chinese cultural centers, restaurants, its Wushu School and the Confucius Institute, are major participants during Lunar New Year celebrations.

LUIS CHIRINO, Havana "This year China and Cuba are marking the 65th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations, bonds that have only deepened and strengthened over the years, through mutual friendship, cooperation and cultural exchange."

One of the highlights is a cultural event organized by the Chinese embassy in Havana, headed by Ambassador Hua Xin. There is traditional music and dances as well as a fair featuring Chinese crafts and food for people to enjoy.

MARCOS ANTONIO TAMAMES, Expert in Patrimony Studies "This is not an isolated ethnic group; the Chinese overseas community has followed the historic development of China. Here, Chinese diplomats maintain close ties with Havana's Chinatown, including assistance and cooperation."

Lunar New Year eve brought together Chinese citizens and Cubans to share joyful moments, taste the exquisite Chinese cuisine and welcome the Year of the Snake as both countries look forward to building friendship and solidarity. Luis Chirino, CGTN, Havana.