Foreign leaders have extended their best wishes to Chinese people around the world as they celebrate the Chinese New Year, or Spring Festival.
On Tuesday, China welcomed the Year of the Snake, marking the most celebrated holiday among the Chinese, signifying a time of family reunions and vibrant cultural events.
In Benin, Minister of Foreign Affairs Olushegun Adjadi Bakari conveyed his warmest New Year greetings to the Chinese government and people during a meeting with Chinese Ambassador to Benin Zhang Wei on Tuesday.
\"Happy Spring Festival! As Chinese communities in Benin and around the world are celebrating the Chinese New Year, I would like to take this opportunity to emphasize the great importance we attach to the strong and enduring friendship between Benin and China,\" Bakari stated.
Bakari highlighted the cultural parallels between the Year of the Snake in the Chinese zodiac—symbolizing transformation, intelligence, and perseverance—and Dan, the serpent deity in Beninese culture, revered as a source of wealth, wisdom, and harmony.
\"These shared values resonate profoundly within the context of our bilateral relations and reflect the depth of our cultural ties,\" Bakari said. \"May this Year of the Snake be a year of prosperity for all and for the enduring friendship between Benin and China.\"
Meanwhile, Fijian Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka extended greetings to the people in China and overseas Chinese around the world in a video message on Tuesday.
\"On behalf of the Fijian government and the people, I wish you all a joyous and prosperous Chinese New Year. May this year bring happiness, health, and harmony to your loved ones,\" Rabuka said.
Rabuka emphasized that the Spring Festival marks a time of renewal, hope, and prosperity—values that deeply resonate with the Fijian spirit. He also expressed gratitude to overseas Chinese for their invaluable contributions to Fiji.
As the world joins in the celebrations, these messages from international leaders highlight the goodwill and cultural connections shared with the Chinese people during this significant festival.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
