The first training course for writers from ethnic groups with relatively small populations opened on May 16 in Lijiang city. Fifty-three trainees from 18 ethnics groups will receive training for four days.

The opening ceremony of a training course for writers from ethnic groups with relatively small populations [Photo by He Hongyan/yn.xinhuanet.com]

The training class invited Dan Zeng, honorary vice-chairman of the China Writers Association, Jidi Majia, vice-chairman of the Chinese Writers Association and Ye Mei, standing vice-chairman of the Chinese Minority Writers' Society to give talks.

During the training, trainees will discuss how to advance the cause of minority literature and hold a symposium and work-revision meeting.

"Lijiang is a place inhabited by many ethnic groups, with colorful cultures," said He Yulan, municipal deputy Party secretary and publicity department of the municipal committee of Lijiang. "We hope that all trainees will dig deep, observe people and their lives from various industries and tell stories of Lijiang with their talents, providing spiritual power for the development of Lijiang."

Li Yong, secretary of the Party committee of the Yunnan Federation of Literary and Art Circles, said, "We hope all trainees will stay close to people's lives and write the stories of Yunnan province with exuberant passion, vivid depiction, and positive characters, reflecting the development of this land in the new era. "

The training sessions are provided to writers from ethnic groups with relatively small populations to increase their awareness of their role in the development of local culture so they may contribute to the harmony and progress of the area.