As the world welcomes the Lunar New Year 2025, leaders from various nations have extended their warmest wishes to those celebrating the Year of the Wood Snake. The Lunar New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, is one of the most important cultural celebrations in China, Southeast Asia, and other parts of the world. It symbolizes new beginnings, prosperity, and unity.
Several world leaders took this opportunity to congratulate communities worldwide, acknowledging the cultural and economic significance of the Lunar New Year. Among them were the Prime Minister of the Solomon Islands, the Prime Minister of Thailand, the Prime Minister of Fiji, the President of Kiribati, the President of Azerbaijan, and the United Nations Secretary-General.
The Prime Minister of the Solomon Islands, Manasseh Sogavare, conveyed his heartfelt Lunar New Year greetings, emphasizing the growing cultural and economic ties between his nation and countries that celebrate the festival.
“In the spirit of unity and prosperity, I extend my best wishes to all those celebrating the Year of the Wood Snake. The Solomon Islands cherishes its friendship with the Chinese community and other nations that observe this meaningful occasion,” said PM Sogavare.
He also highlighted the importance of economic cooperation, tourism, and cultural exchange in strengthening relations between the Solomon Islands and China.
Thailand, home to one of the largest Chinese communities in Southeast Asia, celebrates the Lunar New Year with grand festivities. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin shared a special message of goodwill for the Thai-Chinese community and people across the world.
“May this Lunar New Year bring health, happiness, and success to all. Thailand deeply values the contributions of the Thai-Chinese community, whose traditions and entrepreneurial spirit have greatly enriched our nation,” said PM Srettha.
He also noted the strong diplomatic and economic partnership between Thailand and China, reinforcing his government’s commitment to further collaboration.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka of Fiji also extended his New Year greetings, recognizing the cultural diversity that enriches his island nation.
“Fiji is proud of its multicultural heritage, and we celebrate the Lunar New Year alongside our Chinese-Fijian community. May the Year of the Wood Snake bring peace, progress, and prosperity to all,” said PM Rabuka.
He emphasized the role of Fiji’s Chinese community in areas such as trade, business, and community development.
In Kiribati, President Taneti Maamau also joined world leaders in honoring the Lunar New Year. In his statement, he expressed gratitude for the contributions of Chinese communities to Kiribati’s economic growth and diplomatic relations.
“The Lunar New Year reminds us of the importance of family, tradition, and renewal. On behalf of the people of Kiribati, I send my warmest wishes to all who are celebrating,” he stated.
President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan also extended his greetings, recognizing China’s cultural heritage and its growing influence in global affairs.
“The Lunar New Year represents not only a time of joy but also a reminder of the long-standing friendship between Azerbaijan and nations celebrating this festival,” said President Aliyev.
He highlighted the economic and trade partnerships between Azerbaijan and China, expressing hope for continued collaboration in the years ahead.
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres delivered a global message for the Lunar New Year, emphasizing the values of peace, unity, and sustainable development.
“The Lunar New Year is a time to reflect on our shared aspirations for a better world. May the Year of the Wood Snake inspire us to work together for a more peaceful, prosperous, and sustainable future,” he said.
He also praised China’s leadership in climate action, global development, and multilateral cooperation, reaffirming the UN’s commitment to fostering international harmony.
As the world celebrates the Lunar New Year 2025, the warm greetings from global leaders reflect the growing cultural and economic importance of this festival. Their messages of prosperity, unity, and cooperation highlight the strong international ties forged through shared traditions and mutual respect.
From Asia to the Pacific and beyond, the Year of the Wood Snake is welcomed with optimism and hope, symbolizing a future filled with good fortune and harmony.
Happy Lunar New Year 2025!
