(2002/11/18)

To mark 30th anniversary of normalization of diplomatic relations between China and Japan, Vice-Chairman of Inner Mongolian Autonomous Region Baoyindelige'er visited Japan at the head of a 16-person Matouqin (a bowed stringed instrument with a scroll carved in the shape of a horse's head, used by Mongolian musicians) Art Troupe. The troupe visited and gave performances in Tokyo, Nagoya, Chiba and Kanagawa from October 31 to November 10.

On November 6, Vice Chairman of the Inner Mongolian Autonomous Region Baoyindelige'er, Deputy Director of Department of Culture Jing Qihua, Director of Nationalities Song and Dance Theater An Yongde and celebrated Matouqin artist and state-class 1 performer Qi Baoligao went to Tokyo Minon Cultural Center for an official visit to president of Souka Society and top advisor of Democratic Music Association Akiya Enosuke, granting him two letters of appointment: one for the title of Supreme Honorary President of Inner Mongolian Nationalities Song and Dance Theater and the other for the title of Supreme Honorary Chairman of China Matouqin Society that have been granted to Honorary President of Souka Society and founder of Democratic Music Society Ikeda Daisaku. They also presented to the society calligraphic works of director of Department of Culture Gao Yanqing. President of the society Akiya Enosuke accepted the letters of appointment and read a letter of thanks on behalf of Ikeda Daisaku. Baoyindelige'er also invited Ikeda Daisaku to Inner Mongolian prairie now rapidly developing.

During his visit in Japan, Baoyindelige'er interviewed the mayor of Kawasaki, mayor of Hadano and mayor of Yagai, warmly received by relevant persons. They also visited Zhou Enlai Exhibition held in Yokohama and Tokyo's Edo Museum. The Matouqin Art Troupe gave altogether seven performances in Japan, warmly received each time by the audience.

By Hasibagen

(From Cultural Office of Chinese Embassy in Japan)