A boy shows his paper cutting work in Istanbul of Turkey on Feb 13, 2015. "Night of Beijing, Happy Chinese New Year" traditional cultural performance was held by the Chinese Ministry of Culture in Istanbul on Friday. [Photo/Xinhua]

A series of traditional cultural performances named "Night of Beijing, Happy Chinese New Year" were held at TSKM cultural center in Istanbul, Turkey, on Feb 13, 2015, aimed at presenting the traditional Chinese culture to the Turkish people in the most exquisite way.

Organized by the Chinese Ministry of Culture and Beijing Municipal Government, the event brought the joyful atmosphere of Chinese New Year to the Turks, consisting of a gala show and a display of intangible cultural heritage, including paper cutting, Chinese diabolo and kite making. The most fascinating programs were acrobatics, kung fu, ball skills and jujitsu performances.

Turkey is one of the most important stops of the Silk Road. China and Turkey have enhanced cultural exchanges to develop bilateral ties.

"The performance shows the image of China, and helps to enhance the friendship between the two peoples," said Vice Culture Minister Xiang Zhaolun at the opening ceremony. "We will enhance cultural cooperation in the future, deepen cultural ties, and build the Silk Road together." Another show will be staged on the night of Feb 15 at the LGOSM cultural center in Istanbul.

According to Chinese traditional calendar, the Year of the Sheep starts from Feb 19 this year, known as Chinese Spring Festival. In order to share the joyful festival with all, overseas celebrations of "Happy Chinese New Year" have been held by the Chinese Ministry of culture every year from 2010. Coming to its sixth year, the overseas celebrations have organized 500 activities in more than 100 countries and regions across the world.