China bans playing of national anthem at weddings, parties

China's ruling Communist Party today banned playing of national anthem at weddings, funerals and entertainment parties and asked for its promotion in schools across the country.
The national anthem "March of the Volunteers" should not be performed or chanted at weddings and funerals or in commercial arenas, Chinese authorities said.
The party also banned performing or chanting the anthem during entertainment activities such as parties or non-political celebrations, a statement issued by the Communist Party of China (CPC) said.
The statement standardises proper etiquette for the national anthem, which reflects national independence and liberation, a prosperous, strong country and the affluence of the people, state-run Xinhua news agency reported.

The national anthem may be played in the beginning of important celebrations or public political gatherings, formal diplomatic occasions or significant international gatherings.
It is also allowed during the national flag rising ceremony, at the beginning of important sports events and at arenas where national dignity should be fought for and safeguarded.
The anthem should be promoted in schools and kindergartens across the country, it said.
According to the statement, local governments are urged to supervise performance of the anthem and those violating the etiquette will be corrected.