World Federation of Qipao recently opened its German branch in Dusseldorf to spread Qipao, or cheongsam, a traditional dress for Chinese women, Chinanews.com reported on Jan. 23.

A representative from the Chinese Consulate-General in Dusseldorf (Germany) attended the inauguration ceremony, saying the newly-established German branch will contribute to the culture and people-to-people exchanges between two countries.

Council members of the new branch were installed at the ceremony and staged a Qipao show for all present. Jiang Haiying, head of the German branch, noted that she and her team will make efforts to introduce Qipao culture to more German friends.

World Federation of Qipao was established in June 2015 by Qipao lovers and folk art enthusiasts. The organization aims to introduce Qipao to countries around the world and spread traditional Chinese folk culture.

Now, the federation has set up chapters in St. Louis, Boston, and other cities in the US.