Chinese artists perform at the Spring Festival show in Vientiane. Provided to China Daily

"The connection with Southeast Asian neighbors is much more valuable than the money we spent on the galas, and we will continue the festivity show in the future to further promote interaction and understanding of Yunnan people and our neighbors," Li says.

During the gala, the international channel of Yunnan TV announced to offer service in Laos and other Southeast Asian countries. "Yunnan is the only province in China that neighbors Laos, and the increasing cooperation between Yunnan and Laos has contributed to the strategic partnership between China and Laos in recent years," says Zhao Jin, director of Yunnan's provincial publicity department. "The performances by Chinese and Laotian artists will further promote the cultural exchange and communication between the two countries."

Guo Anfei contributed to the story.