To celebrate the 15th anniversary of the sister-city relationship and promote cultural and artistic exchanges between Beijing and San José, Costa Rica, a musical instrument donation ceremony was held on August 14 at San José’s Civic Auditorium. Wei Xiaodong, Chairman of Beijing Municipal Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, and Diego Miranda, Mayor of San José, delivered speeches. Wang Xiaoyao, Chinese Ambassador to Costa Rica, the Beijing delegation, and the San José city band attended the ceremony.

Beijing and San José officially became sister cities in 2009, and have since maintained active exchanges in culture, education and other sectors. The donated instruments, including saxophones, clarinets, and flutes, are produced by Beijing companies and will serve as important symbols of cultural exchanges between the two cities. These instruments will enrich the cultural life of San José’s residents and strengthen the ties between the sister cities through music.

The Mayor of San José expressed his sincere gratitude to Beijing, stating that the San José city government is committed to creating a livable city and enhancing the quality of people’s lives, and hopes to uplift the spirits of its citizens, especially the youth, through cultural and artistic initiatives. San José is ready to collaborate with Beijing to elevate the sister-city relationship to new heights, making a greater contribution to the friendship between the two peoples.

During the ceremony, the San José city band performed pieces such as the Costa Rican Music Suite. The Beijing delegation presented Mayor Miranda with the donation list and instrument models. In return, Miranda gifted the delegation a certificate of appreciation.