LISBON, March 31 (Xinhua) -- The National Ballet of China (NBC) performed classical ballet in the Portuguese capital here on Saturday evening to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

At the Camoes Theater, named after a famous Portuguese poet, the Chinese ballet dancers performed part of the classical ballet "Giselle," the symphony ballet "The Yellow River" and the masterpiece "Carmen."

The performance, which lasted for more than two hours, won thunderous applause from the audience when it ended.

This is the second performance of the Chinese ballet dancers in Portugal. The first was successfully held on Wednesday in Porto, the second largest city in Portugal.

During a state visit by Chinese President Xi Jinping to Portugal in December 2018, both sides agreed to hold a series of events including cultural festivals scheduled in China and Portugal this year to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the establishment of bilateral diplomatic relations.

As part of the cultural festival, the NBC has planned to hold three performances for Portuguese audiences from March 24-31. The last performance will be held on Sunday.

This is the first time that the NBC has given performances in Portugal since its establishment in December 1959.