A festive village was opened at Singapore's Marina Promenade Thursday night, kicking off the city state's 600th anniversary celebrations of Zheng He's epic voyages.

Zheng, an ancient Chinese navigator, led Chinese fleet on seven ocean voyages on royal orders between 1405 and 1433 and visited more than 30 countries and regions in Asia and Africa.

Aiming to recreate the world of six centuries ago, the village comprises specially designed pavilions showcasing local architecture, cuisine, handicrafts and performances from countries Zheng He once visited.

More than 100 overseas delegates including 50 performers from China, Indonesia, India, Iran, Kenya and Malaysia have come to Singapore to join the 11-day event.

Addressing the launch of the festive village, Singapore's Foreign Minister George Yeo pointed out that Zheng He's voyages were largely displays of soft rather than of hard power of the Ming Dynasty.

"An important reason for the current interest in Zheng He ... is the deep desire for peaceful globalization in the world today," Yeo said, adding that the 600th Anniversary of Zheng He's voyages should bring people together, not divide them.

He compared the re-emergence of China in the 21st century with the dynastic ascent in the Tang and the Ming Dynasties which brought trade and prosperity all along the coast of Asia.

Following the festive village, a series of activities will be held in Singapore including exhibitions, conferences and a new musical "the Admiral's Odyssey."

In addition, a book named "Zheng He and the Treasure Fleet," as well as a special stamp issue and a series of exquisite commemorative coins, will also be lunched in conjunction with the celebrations.

Source: Xinhua