NICOSIA, Nov. 22 (Xinhua) -- Renowned Chinese violinist Zhu Dan thrilled music lovers on Friday night at a recital here to mark the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China as well as the 48th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Cyprus and China.
The recital, organized by the non-profit Pharos Art Foundation in association with the Chinese Embassy in Cyprus, was held at the Shoe Factory, one of the city's oldest factory buildings that was turned by the Nicosia Town Hall into a cultural center.
Zhu, together with Paris-born pianist Julien Quentin, performed works by Ludwig van Beethoven, George Enescu and Richard Strauss, and was commented by critics as "truly brilliant, compelling and polished."
Chinese Ambassador to Cyprus Huang Xingyuan said in his welcoming remarks that 48 years ago, the two countries joined hands as partners of mutual respect, and today, bilateral relations "have reached historic best and are poised for an even better future."
He noted that music promotes cross-cultural understanding and relations between nations, as well as contributes to peace, cooperation and harmony.
The recital had a special meaning as it was meant to celebrate the two anniversaries, Zhu told Xinhua, adding Cyprus, which boasts a long history and splendid civilization, has special importance for Europe-Asia ties.
Quentin, hailed as a versatile and sensitive musician with great maturity, said Zhu has been his friend, colleague and musical partner for a few years.
"We meet a few times every year on tour all over the world, but this is our first time to perform in Cyprus," he said.
"I love not only his virtuosity but also his passion," Elizabeth Spehar, the UN Secretary-General's special representative and head of the UN Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus, described Zhu's performance as "absolutely amazing."
