Robot leads Chinese New Year parade in Paris

"It carries strong symbolic meaning," says Stephane Bohbot, chief executive of INNOV8 Group. He adds that new technologies could be integrated into these celebrations to show how they can improve people's lives.

The millennia-old Spring Festival is also about the future and future generations, he notes.

Behind the robotic usher came traditional dragon and lion dance troupes. Their pounding drums echoed along the avenue as performers conveyed wishes of good fortune, prosperity and vitality.

The procession also featured a wide range of Chinese cultural traditions, including more than 100 participants dressed in elegant hanfu (traditional Chinese attire), the Yingge folk dance from South China's Guangdong province, Mongolian dance, martial arts, and tai chi demonstrations.

A resident, Didier, who came with his family, says it was his first time seeing a Chinese New Year parade on the Champs-Elysees. "The dance performances in traditional costumes were especially unforgettable," he says.

Marc-Antoine Jamet, president of the Champs-Elysees Committee, says the parade has become a clearly identified cultural rendezvous on the avenue, noting that the horse symbolizes auspiciousness in both Chinese and French cultures.

Jeanne d'Hauteserre, mayor of the 8th arrondissement of Paris, says she was delighted to see residents and visitors celebrating together.

The parade brought a light, festive atmosphere and a unique cultural experience to the district, further enriching Paris' diverse cultural life, she adds.