Guangzhou welcomes her special guests today with representatives, directors of Foreign Affairs Office, chairmen of Friendship Association from 26 Guangzhou's sister cities of 22 countries all around the world.
It is the first time for the all directors, chairmen, and representatives from sister cities of Guangzhou to get together here since the friendship began over 30 years ago.
From March 13th to 15th, the 49 foreign relatives will talk over the cooperation and exchange programs and probe into the details of organizing the 1st International Friendship Cities Meeting.
Also more than 150 rare gifts from sister cities sent to Guangzhou are to be unveiled during the International Friendship Cities Meeting.
Gifts from sister cities
Indian Totem Pole from Vancouver, Canada
Totem Pole is the tribe emblem among Indians. They sculpt totems on firry log for worship and taboos.
Face Vase from Linkoping, Sweden
The pink body of vase has a shape of human face and a feeling of a maid. "KOSTA BODA SINCE 1742" is written on the back of the vase. "KOSTA BODA" is the oldest brand in crystal craftsmanship with a history of 266 years. It serves for Royal Family of Sweden since 1742. And it is leading the fashion of world-class crystal craftsmanship from then on.
Maori Spear from Auckland, New Zealand
The spear is 70 centimeters long. It is the right spear held by Maori when they are dancing. The top of the spear is made of particular beryl under the riverbed of New Zealand.
Woodcarving from Fukuoka, Japan
The Mayor of Fukuoka brought this woodcarving to Guangzhou in 2004. The carving is a bear holding a fish in its mouth. Fukuoka is in the north of Hokkaido. And it is said that bear is one of the symbolic animals in Hokkaido.
South African Ostrich Eggs from Durban, South Africa
On one of the eggs, the 5 particular animals are painted. They are lion, elephant, rhinoceros, urus and leopard. And the other one is covered by a pearled mantle.
Shellwork Jewelry Box from Gwangju, South Korea
Gwangju is the town of art. This jewelry box is made of shells. In the old days, only rich families can have a possession of this rare article. The crane and deer drawn on the box is the symbol of longevity and happiness in Korea.
Gifts from Guangzhou sent to her sister cities
Also, Guangzhou has sent her gifts to sister cities. They are very traditional and magnificent, such as fireworks, calligraphy works, paintings and 5 goats jade sculpture.
(by Luna Yang)
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