The poster of 2023 Xiamen International Friendship Concert by the Amsterdam Chamber Orchestra. [Photo/WeChat account: jiagengjuyuan]
Xiamen has established international sister-city relationships with 23 foreign cities since March 1983, when it forged its first with Cardiff in the United Kingdom.
To celebrate the 40th anniversary of sister-city interactions, the 2023 Xiamen International Friendship Concert by the Amsterdam Chamber Orchestra will be held on Dec 28 at the Xiamen Poly Theatre.
Themed "harmonious voices, sharing beauty", the concert will showcase the charm of both Chinese and Western music.
The Xiamen International Friendship Concert is a city public diplomacy event established by the Foreign Affairs Office of Xiamen Municipal People's Government and the Xiamen People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries. Twelve sessions have been held since the first in 2010.
Embracing the concept of "Diplomacy for the People" and leveraging diplomatic resources, themed concerts are being used as a platform to allow both local residents and expatriates in Xiamen to enjoy high-level performances without leaving the country.
This initiative promotes cultural exchanges and mutual learning between China and foreign countries, thereby enhancing mutual understanding among the people and fostering friendships at the grassroots level.
China announced and implemented on May 15 a policy allowing visa-free entry of foreign tourist groups aboard cruise ships via all cruise ship ports along the country's coastline.
China and Georgia are set to waive visa requirements for travelers starting May 28.
