On the evening of January 31st, local time, Celebrating the 60th Anniversary of Sino-French Diplomatic Relations and the Launch of Sino-French Cultural Tourism Year Concert was held at the Royal Opera of Versailles. Approximately 500 dignitaries from various fields including politics, economics, culture, and tourism attended the event. The distinguished guests were first treated to video messages from President Xi Jinping and President Emmanuel Macron, extending their felicitations on the occasion of the 60th anniversary of Sino-French diplomatic ties.

The opening concert, a resounding success, was conducted by conductor Li Xincao, who serves as the President of the China Conservatory of Music. The event featured a collaborative performance by the China National Traditional Orchestra and the Royal Opera of Versailles. Musicians from both nations came together in harmony, presenting a repertoire that seamlessly blended the distinctive musical elements of China and France, exemplifying the profound cultural exchange between the two countries.

The concert commenced with the Chinese traditional music piece Spring Festival Overture, setting the stage with a rich festive atmosphere; It was followed by a performance of the Carmen suite, composed by the renowned French composer Bizet, a piece familiar to audiences from both China and France. Zhao Cong, the conductor of the China National Traditional Orchestra, took the stage to deliver a mesmerizing performance of the pipa concerto Flying Fairies of Silk Road. Additionally, the program included selections from the timeless French opera Romeo and Juliet. The audience's applause was sustained, creating an enthusiastic and vibrant atmosphere throughout the evening.

In April 2023, during the visit of French President Emmanuel Macron to China, President Xi Jinping jointly announced the comprehensive reinvigoration of Sino-French cultural exchanges. They also unveiled plans to host the Sino-French Cultural Tourism Year in 2024, coinciding with the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations. The China Conservatory of Music has entered into strategic cooperation agreements with institutions such as the China National Traditional Orchestra, solidifying their collaborative efforts. They remain steadfast in their commitment to advancing the national cultural strategy, promoting cross-cultural exchanges, enhancing China's cultural soft power, and expanding the global influence of Chinese culture.