Present at the ceremony were Kim Ki Nam, secretary of the Central Committee of the Workers' Party of Korea, Yang Hyong Sop, vice-president of the Presidium of the Supreme People's Assembly, Vice Premier Kim Yong Jin, Cha Hui Rim, chairman of the Pyongyang City People's Committee, officials concerned, citizens, artistes of various countries, foreign delegations and delegates, overseas Korean artistes, diplomatic envoys and representatives of international bodies here, military attaches and staff members of foreign embassies here and overseas Koreans.

Minister of Culture Pak Chun Nam, chairman of the festival organizing committee, said in an opening speech that the festival has promoted friendship, solidarity, exchange and cooperation among countries and nations and contributed to human culture by giving successful performances with songs praising the great men and songs of independence, peace and friendship.

He expressed belief that the participants of the festival would proudly show the excellent cultural tradition and development of arts in their countries and nations, deepen friendship and swap precious successes and experience through the performances.

Congratulatory speeches were made.

Cuban Vice-Minister of Culture Carvajal Perez Kenelma, said that the Cuban artistes have traditionally taken part in the festival with friendship. She expressed will to contribute the development of the relations between the two countries through exchange in art field.

Ivan Gromakov, head of the Stavropol Cossacks State Dance Company, wished success in the festival in praise of the greatness of Kim Il Sung, founder and eternal President of the DPRK.

Sogni Giuliano, conductor of the Young Philharmonia Italian Orchestra, said that it's her honor to conduct "Song of General Kim Il Sung", the immortal revolutionary hymn, at the opening performance of the festival.

Then a performance was given by Korean artistes.

The festival will last till April 17. It will involve group, individual and joint performances at various theaters here.