The Chinese government has announced that the country's national anthem is not to be performed at weddings, funerals or in commercial arenas.

The government also banned performing or chanting the anthem during entertainment activities such as balls or non-political celebrations, according to a statement released by the Communist Party of China central committee's general office, and the general office of the State Council.

Like Us on Facebook

The government said that it wants to regulate proper protocol for the national anthem, which it said should reflect national independence and liberation, a prosperous, strong country and the affluence of the citizens.

Although the national anthem is now banned at those events, it is allowed to be played in the beginning of important celebrations or public political gatherings, formal diplomatic occasions or significant international gatherings.

The government will also permit singing of the national anthem during the national flag rising ceremony, at the beginning of important sports events, when Chinese athletes win in international sports games and at arenas where "national dignity should be fought for and safeguarded," the government said in a statement.

Local governments are urged to supervise performance of the anthem and those violating protocol will be criticized and corrected, according to the statement.

TagsChina Bans National Anthem at Weddings Funerals, Chinese national anthem