YANGON, July 29 (Xinhua) -- Traditional songs echoed through the venue as performers in colourful ethnic costumes took to the stage, while visitors browsed stalls displaying lacquerware, textiles and handicrafts from China and Myanmar.
The vibrant atmosphere reflected the spirit of friendship at the China-Myanmar Cultural Exchange Week 2026, which opened alongside the China-Myanmar twin city media forum in Yangon on Tuesday.
Through cultural performances, exhibitions and dialogue, participants highlighted the role of people-to-people exchanges in strengthening bilateral ties.
Among the performers was 28-year-old Ma Ei Ei Phyo from Myanmar Radio and Television, who joined her troupe in presenting traditional Myanmar songs and dances.
"I am very happy to participate in this event and proud to represent Myanmar," she said. "Cultural exchanges between the peoples of Myanmar and China will further strengthen the friendship between our two countries. They help us build closer relationships and create more opportunities for cooperation and development."
She said preserving cultural heritage is important for every nation, adding that cultural exchanges allow countries to better appreciate each other's traditions while fostering mutual respect.
"When Myanmar and China share their cultures, it brings our peoples closer together, enhances friendship and promotes understanding," she said.
Visitors also had the opportunity to discover both the similarities and unique characteristics of the two neighbouring countries' traditions.
Ma Ni Lar, 39, attended the event with her colleagues and said she enjoyed learning about the cultural diversity of both nations.
"I saw many similarities as well as differences between the cultures of Myanmar and China," she said. "I especially liked the handicrafts, traditional fabrics, decorative items and cultural performances."
As neighbouring countries, Myanmar and China share many cultural values, she said, although weaving styles and textile designs vary from region to region.
"Through cultural exchanges like this, people from both countries can better understand one another," she said. "That deeper understanding will further strengthen the friendship between our two countries."
She also noted that respect and humility are common values shared by both cultures.
The cultural market attracted exhibitors showcasing traditional craftsmanship. Among them was Royal Golden Tortoise Myanmar Handicraft Lacquerware, which displayed about 50 lacquerware products.
Owner U Tin Zaw Khaing described the exhibition as a symbol of the close relationship between Myanmar and China's Yunnan Province.
"This cultural exchange benefits the people of both countries, and it is also valuable for businesspeople like us," he said. "I hope more events like this will be organised in the future."
The lively market also proved popular with younger visitors. Nine-year-old Mg Nyan Lin Sat attended with his aunt and friends, exploring the exhibition while enjoying performances by Chinese and Myanmar artists.
He said he liked the noodles and other Chinese food available at the event and proudly showed off a panda toy he had purchased.
"I like pandas," he said with a smile. "I bought it because I want to keep it with my other panda toys at home."
The China Cultural Center in Yangon also showcased cultural exhibits and interactive activities at the event.
Han Jiajun, director of the China Cultural Center in Yangon, said the exhibition aims to present the richness and depth of Chinese culture to visitors from both countries while creating opportunities for dialogue and mutual appreciation.
"Through these activities, we hope to tell China's story, convey China's friendship and promote meaningful exchanges between the people of our two countries," Han said.
Beyond cultural displays, participants emphasised that exchanges between media organisations also play an important role in fostering mutual trust.
Chairman of the Myanmar Press Council U Tin Tun Oo said media cooperation enables people from both countries to understand each other better.
"When we understand each other better, we build friendship and trust. With trust, we can work together and achieve mutual benefits," he said.
He added that cultural exchanges are equally important because every country has its own traditions and values.
"By learning about each other's cultures through events like this, we become closer and develop warmer relations. That contributes to the friendship between China and Myanmar," he said. ■
