Yunnan Cultural Week closed on Sept 3 at the Palace of Nations in Geneva, Switzerland. The event's wonderful performances and delicious cuisine attracted many Westerners.

At the opening ceremony, Tibetan folk songs and Spirit of the Peacock, a traditional dance of the Dai ethnic group, moved audiences deeply. Some interactive programs, like Playing Music by Leaves, won great acclaim. A Tibetan singer presented a hada (traditional ceremonial scarf in Tibet) to guests and extended her warm invitation.

People attending the opening ceremony included: Kassym Tokayev, director-general of the United Nations Office at Geneva; Zhao Jin, minister of the Yunnan Party Publicity Ministry and head of the Chinese delegation to the event; Wu Haiqing, ambassador of the Chinese delegation to Geneva; diplomats and officials of international organizations from over 100 countries and regions; and more than 1,800 locals.

A reporter from World Radio Switzerland said that he was totally enthralled by the rich Chinese culture. The women on the Tibetan Plateau were moving and great. The Asian elements in the peacock dance were beautiful.

At a reception offering regional cuisine, Zhao Jin met Margaret Chan, director-general of the World Health Organization, and Ding Zhaozhong, Nobel laureate in physics. Cooks presented 10 distinctive dishes with stunning skill. Special ingredients from Yunnan such as matsutake were also introduced at the table.

Tokayev praised the event. He said that Yunnan Cultural Week contributes a lot to the diversity of world culture. Through the excellent performances, artists shared their dreams and charm with the world.