The colours of the Orient brought a Nicosia amphitheatre to life this week to mark the start of a new Chinese lunar year
Chinese New Year (on Wednesday) was welcomed in Cyprus in a festive atmosphere, full of colour and traditional decorations that transformed the usually quite drab university amphitheatre into a Chinese cultural haven.






The island’s 2025 Spring Festival celebrations for the Year of the Snake took place on Monday at the University of Cyprus. The festival also included stands showcasing traditional Chinese cuisine and products for guests to get a better taste of the culture.
Once the cultural workshops were completed, and the buffet closed, the Spring Festival Gala took place beginning with performances of traditional Chinese songs, a singer presented songs from a Peking opera, and a musician on the guzheng playing the song Spring Dawn on Snowy Mountain.
An artist then made a sand painting on stage showing the journey of the Silk Road.
A Chinese martial arts performance followed showing the ‘five-animal exercise’ created by a doctor of Chinese medicine and using the movements of various animals to enhance overall abilities and health.
The martial arts performer showed step by step how this is achieved.
The gala closed with the magnificent show of a face-changing performance also known as the Sichuan Opera. The artist changed the mask he was wearing so fast it was hard to understand how he had managed it.
“The upcoming year is the Year of the Snake. In the Chinese culture, the snake symbolises wisdom and agility,” Chinese ambassador Liu Yantao said.
“Together, [all 12 zodiac signs] form a cycle, demonstrating the Chinese culture of peace and harmony. Such a philosophy of reunion and harmony underpins the unity of the Chinese nation and the harmonious coexistence between humanity and nature”.
He also said it guides China to pursue win-win cooperation with other countries to jointly build a community for a shared future.
“The Chinese side views Cyprus as a significant partner. We are ready to enhance all-round cooperation with Cyprus, for the benefit of our two countries and peoples,” the ambassador added.
Deputy Culture minister Vasiliki Kasianidou also spoke about the similarities of the two countries, referring to Cypriot art throughout the years which included a lot of snakes on ancient artefacts.
“Cyprus and China celebrate more than 50 years of close diplomatic relations, and we hope to further broaden our collaboration, in the field of culture. I would like to wish the people of China joy, health and prosperity for the new year,” Kasianidou said.
In a video address, President Nikos Christodoulides reiterated he was “…particularly proud of the solid and long-standing relationship between our countries, grounded in mutual respect and understanding.
“China and Cyprus are two countries that champion the fundamental principles of the UN Charter and international law, that acknowledge the great significance of multilateralism and dialogue, that strive for the maintenance of international security and legality.
“I wish to convey our profound gratitude for China’s enduring and principled support on the Cyprus question… [it is] …deeply appreciated”.
“We have high expectations for the new year. As the Year of the Snake approaches, I wish all of you happy new year and happiness for the whole family. May our two countries prosper and flourish! May our peoples be full of joy,” ambassador Liu concluded.
Click here to change your cookie preferences