Artistic performances were given on Monday for retired Chinese military officers in Beijing to greet the upcoming Spring Festival.

The gala was hosted by the Central Military Commission (CMC).

Chinese President Hu Jintao, also chairman of the CMC, watched the performances and extended New Year greetings to the veteran officers.

He walked onto the stage at the end of the gala, shaking hands with the performing staff, congratulating them on the success of the performances, and having a group photo taken.

Vice Chairmen of the CMC Guo Boxiong, Cao Gangchuan and Xu Caihou were present at the gala together with senior incumbent and retired military officials.

Source: Xinhua