Taking part in the festival are prestigious and talented artistes of different countries and vocalists who proved successful in the First Pyongyang International Vocal Competition.

When foreign artistes and overseas Korean artistes arrived at the East Pyongyang Grand Theatre, working people in the city warmly welcomed them, waving bouquets.

The atmosphere of the festival opening ceremony revved up when a female brass band played cheerful music and artistes presented graceful dances and acrobatic pieces and children displayed skills.

Present at the ceremony were Pak Kwang Ho, vice-chairman of the Central Committee of the Workers' Party of Korea, Yang Hyong Sop, vice-president of the Presidium of the Supreme People's Assembly, Jon Kwang Ho, vice-premier of the Cabinet, officials concerned, working people in the city, foreign artistes, overseas Korean artistes, delegations of different countries, foreign diplomatic envoys and representatives of international bodies here, military attaches and officials of foreign embassies here and overseas Koreans staying in the socialist homeland.

Pak Chun Nam, minister of Culture who is chairman of the festival organizing committee, made an opening address.

He warmly welcomed the participants in the 31st April Spring Friendship Art Festival marking the 106th birth anniversary of President Kim Il Sung.

He thanked governments and culture and art circles of different countries for their positive cooperation for a successful festival, true to the idea of independence, peace and friendship.

He expressed the expectation that the excellent cultures and traditions of relevant countries and nations would be fully shown on the stages of the festival.

The head of the Russian State Academic People's Chorus Named after M. E. Pyatnichki and the head of the Song and Dance Ensemble of the Mongolian Army made congratulatory speeches.

A performance of Korean artistes was given at the ceremony.