The Ministry of Civil Affairs has held a ceremony to welcome a group of Chinese children adopted by American parents back to China.

A return to the sound of music, for these children, it's their first journey back to China since being adopted by American parents.

"This is my first time back to China. I am kind of happy as it's the first time to see my cities, my country, and also see the people here," Tina Yi Cheng Parker said.

"It's a great opportunity for Tina to see her great mother country China, and to come here to visit. It's a great tour," said Robert Joseph Parker, Tina's adoptive father.

"It is, it's so beautiful. I am so happy to be here in China and also bring Tina back," said Nancy Gail Parker, Tina's adoptive mother.

The Chinese Government has made great strides to improve the welfare of abandoned children and has not forgotten those who found loving parents abroad. For these Chinese adoptees, coming back to China is a special opportunity to reconnect with their roots.

Senior officials from Ministry of Civil Affairs welcomed the children in Beijing.

They spoke of the importance of such trips in helping the children better understand where they come from, and to give them a clearer sense of identity.

"We warmly welcome these children and their foreign families back in China," Dou Yupei, Vice Minister of Ministry of Civil Affairs, said.

The government has issued strict regulations for international adoptions and monitors adoptive families to ensure the children are well taken care of.

"China's door has always been open to help orphans find the best possible families. I hope these children will become messengers of friendship between China and the rest of the world," Dou said.

These youngsters have a packed schedule. They will visit China's most renowned sites, to learn more about Chinese culture and tradition. It's destined to be a special journey for them one which will remain with them forever.

(CNTV.cn July 2, 2013)