World leaders and heads of international organizations have sent Lunar New Year wishes to Chinese President Xi Jinping as celebrations commence for the Year of the Horse, marking a moment of global diplomatic camaraderie.
Russian President Vladimir Putin emphasized the growth of the Russia-China comprehensive strategic partnership, citing progress in trade, visa exemption agreements, and cultural collaboration over the past year. Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva reaffirmed his nation's commitment to expanding cooperation with China, advocating for joint efforts to build a 'shared future' focused on sustainability and global equity.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and Gulf leaders, including Saudi Arabia's King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, also conveyed their greetings. The messages underscore China's deepening ties with emerging economies and resource-rich nations in 2026.
The Lunar New Year diplomacy coincides with China's ongoing efforts to strengthen cultural soft power, with traditional celebrations featuring red lanterns and calligraphy displays across the Chinese mainland.
