The 5th Silk Road International Cultural Festival of Chang'an University kicked off on April 18, with the theme of "celebrating the 70th anniversary, expecting a better future".

Chang'an University, which was established in 1951, is located in the city of Xi'an, capital of Northwest China's Shaanxi province.

Due to COVID-19 epidemic prevention and control measures, the festival was held both online and offline, attracting the participation of students and teachers from 84 countries.

Zhao Xiangmo, vice president of Chang'an University, delivers a speech at the opening of the 5th Silk Road International Cultural Festival, on April 18. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Zhao Xiangmo, vice president of Chang'an University, said in a keynote speech that the vigorous development of the university over 70 years was inseparable from the support given by all sectors of society.

Overseas students from around the world and Chinese students gave wonderful performances, including Chinese-African instrument ensemble, Chinese traditional martial arts, as well as singing and dancing, Qinqiang Opera and other wonderful renditions.

International and Chinese students stage wonderful performances at the festival. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

At a Silk Road culture and food customs exhibition, international students from 29 countries donned exquisite costumes and showed off handicrafts, offered fine food and played folk music from their respective countries.

An international student academic forum and alumni story sharing session will also be held during the festival.

Initiated in 2014, the Silk Road International Cultural Festival of Chang'an University is one of the university's brand activities, offering rich and diverse content after years of development.

International students offer food from their own countries at the festival. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]