On February 8 local time in Madrid, the National Music Auditorium was filled with the vibrant atmosphere of a traditional Chinese New Year, as Spain’s 2026 “Happy Spring Festival” concert and “Flavors of China” reception took center stage.

Attended by Yolanda Díaz, Spain's Second Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Labor and Social Economy, and Esther Gil, Third Vice President of the Congress Bureau, alongside Gao Zheng, China’s Vice Minister of Culture and Tourism, the event featured a joint appearance by the dignitaries on stage to extend New Year’s greetings.

COSCO SHIPPING, invited to participate in the lighting ceremony, joined Chinese and Spanish officials in illuminating a “Lucky Horse” lantern. The company played a pivotal role behind the scenes by providing full cross-border logistics support for the transport of exhibition materials and promotional items essential to the successful execution of the “Happy Spring Festival” series of activities.

Guests were treated to a unique blend of Chinese and Spanish culinary traditions at the venue, and had the opportunity to experience firsthand the charm of China’s intangible cultural heritage, including tea ceremonies and floral arrangements. The cultural highlight of the evening was a collaborative concert featuring the Shanghai Chinese Orchestra and Shanghai Kunqu Opera Troupe alongside the Madrid Philharmonic Orchestra, presenting a performance that integrates Chinese and Western musical styles and artistic features.