YANGON, Feb. 16 (Xinhua) -- The rhythmic beat of drums echoed across Thuwunna Stadium in Yangon, Myanmar, on Saturday evening as red lanterns swayed above over 1,500 spectators, ushering in a vibrant celebration of the Chinese New Year, the Year of the Horse.

The event in Myanmar's commercial capital brought together government officials, cultural performers, overseas Chinese communities and local communities.

Chinese Ambassador to Myanmar Ma Jia and Vice Chairman of Myanmar's State Security and Peace Commission Vice Senior General Soe Win attended and opened the celebration.

Soe Win extended Chinese New Year greetings and thanked China for its earthquake relief assistance and support for Myanmar's peace process, adding that the country looks forward to deepening cooperation in various fields after the establishment of the new government.

Ma said that under the guidance of high-level leadership, China-Myanmar bilateral relations reached new heights in 2025, with the "pauk-phaw" friendship between the two nations remaining as strong as ever.

Guests visited and experienced the Chinese New Year cultural fair, enjoying performances such as song and dance, martial arts, and Chinlone.

Chinese lion and dragon dances and Wushu demonstrations were staged alongside Myanmar traditional dances and Chinlone performances, creating a lively and colorful atmosphere. The stadium was transformed into a festive cultural hub.

"It has been three years since I performed here," said Ko Twoo Twoo, leader of the Feng Yi Dragon and Lion Dance troupe, which is composed of members of different races and religions, aged between 14 and 35, including female performers.

"I am very happy as a Chinese born in Myanmar. This is a special moment for us. We have waited a long time for these days every year. During the Chinese New Year period, we pray, visit one another, and celebrate together," he said.

"This event is attended by national leaders, making it grand and meaningful. We are honored to perform here," he added, noting that such celebrations help strengthen China-Myanmar relations and promote mutual understanding.

Ko Thant Zin Oo, 38, leader of the Bai Hu lion and dragon dance team, has been performing for about 24 years. "I am very happy to celebrate and welcome the Chinese New Year together," he said, adding that the group had prepared for several days.

Since childhood, lion and dragon dancing has been his passion. "I do not feel tired when performing. I hope the audience can feel both the power and grace of the dances," he said.

The celebration also featured martial arts performances by members of the Myanmar Wushu Federation. "I feel happy to perform at a national-level event," said 15-year-old Wai Yan Moe Hein. "We showcased basic forms, attack techniques, and a knife routine."

He said he has practiced Wushu for about 10 years and rehearsed for a week for the celebration despite school examinations. "Wushu emphasizes speed, strength, flexibility and stability. I want the audience to better understand this sport," he said.

The Yangon Chinlone Sub-Committee also took part in the event. "This is the first time we have performed at a Chinese New Year celebration," said secretary Ko Min Naing Aung. "We are honored to showcase Myanmar's traditional sport and contribute to bilateral friendship."

Among the audience was Yangon resident Ma Su Thandar, who attended with friends. "I like the Chinese foods, the dragon dances and the lion dances," she said, adding that she received various festive items at the event.

Booths at the venue displayed Chinese and Myanmar foods, cultural products and electric vehicles. Visitors sampled traditional dishes from both countries, further enhancing the festive atmosphere and people-to-people friendship.

The Spring Festival, or the Chinese New Year, falls on Feb. 17 this year.