Chen Xiaoguang, Chinese vice-minister of Culture said at the opening ceremony that the CICS is a government-sponsored international artistic competition which meets international standards in terms of its organization, competition content and the quantity and quality of the contestants.

The 12-day gala will award four prizes each to the male and female singer categories. One Chinese and one foreign artist will win the coveted title of "Best Singer of Chinese Songs".

For the first time, CICS winners will be invited to perform next year at China's two national arts festivals, namely, "Meet in Beijing" and the "7th China Arts Festival".

In recent years, growing numbers of Chinese artists won top prizes at world-renowned international competitions. The organization of CICS is also an indication of China's ability to stage international competitions, which help to enhance cultural communication between the peoples of the world.

(China Daily October 27, 2002)