The 10th Chinese Culture Festival in Cuba was officially opened in Havana Saturday.

"This festival has become a window for Cubans to know and understand Chinese culture," said Chinese Ambassador Liu Yuqin at the opening ceremony.

Performers dance during the Chinese culture festival in the Cuba exhibition and convention center in suburban Havana, Cuba, July 17, 2010. [Xinhua photo]

The diplomat hailed the development of Sino-Cuban bilateral ties in political, social and cultural fields during the past 50 years.

"I believe, this festival will bring our art closer to the Cuban public so they can enjoy it as we do," said the ambassador.

The first day of the festival featured such events as demonstration of the traditional Chinese tea ceremony, exhibition of paintings and photographs from China.

Cuban sculptor Guillermo Ortiz presented his artwork featuring Chinese cultural symbols, such as the 12 animals in the Chinese zodiac.

The Chinese Culture Festival, co-sponsored by the Cuban Ministry of Culture and the Chinese Embassy, will last till Sunday.