Sister city holds festival to support Guiyang's fight against virus

Palmerston North in New Zealand recently held a lantern festival to express support for Guiyang, capital of Southwest China's Guizhou province, in its fight against the novel coronavirus.

Volunteers from Palmerston North showcased specially designed lanterns with paintings and encouraging slogans during the festival.

Grant Smith, mayor of Palmerston North, said he was impressed by the Chinese government's efforts in virus prevention and control, adding that he will stand with sister city Guiyang’s fight against the virus, according to a letter he wrote to Guiyang officials earlier.

Smith also expressed wishes for the epidemic to end as soon as possible, as he is looking forward to visit Guiyang in the near future and enhance the relationship between the two cities.

As the country's seventh largest city, Palmerston North has conducted communication and cooperation with Guiyang in terms of the economy, agriculture, education, culture, and tourism for 28 years, which has contributed to the mutual development of both cities.

A lantern is emblazoned with the word "kia kaha," which means be strong in the Maori language, to show support to Guiyang. [Photo/gywb.cn]

Volunteers make specially designed lanterns for the festival. [Photo/gywb.cn]