Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg and Foreign Secretary Philp Hammond wish everyone celebrating Chinese New Year a great New Year and successful Year of the Sheep
Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg said:
“I want to wish everyone celebrating – in the UK’s Chinese communities, as well as in China, Hong Kong and around the world – a Happy Chinese New Year.
“2015 marks the Year of the Sheep and, with some of the world’s largest Chinese New Year celebrations outside Asia on offer, hundreds of thousands of people will be joining in the joyful festivities taking place across the UK.
“The Chinese sign of the Sheep represents peace, strength, creativity, endurance and enterprise – positive values to which we should all aspire to live our lives by, as we strive to build a stronger economy and fairer society together.
“The contribution Britain’s Chinese communities make towards helping us achieve this ambition is immeasurable: working hard, caring for their families, supporting their local communities and taking an increasing lead in every area of public life.
“Together, we can achieve the fairer, more peaceful and prosperous future we want. So, once again, let me wish everyone the very best for a great New Year and successful Year of the Sheep.
“Xin nian kuai le! Gung hey fat choy!!
Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond also sends his good wishes:
“I would like to wish a very happy Lunar New Year to those celebrating around the globe, in countries all across the Asia-Pacific region, and of course to communities in the UK, and elsewhere.
“As we celebrate the arrival of the New Year, we should also remember our achievements in the Year of the Horse. The UK enjoys strong relations with countries across the Asia-Pacific region, and our relationships with these countries go well beyond our important diplomatic ties and strengthening trade links.
“In 2014, we worked together to tackle numerous global challenges, improved policy cooperation in areas such as energy, low carbon, science and innovation, healthcare and sustainable development, and supported each other in the prevention of conflict in fragile states.
“In the spirit of the Year of the Sheep with its connection to strong social relationships and teamwork, I also look forward to seeing our friendships grow even closer in 2015. I hope that more visitors, tourists, students and businesspeople will be encouraged to travel between our countries. More connections will lead to a deeper cultural understanding and respect between our countries, and I look forward to our friendship continuing to deepen over the coming year.
“I hope that – wherever you may be – you enjoy the celebrations with your family and friends, and I wish you a successful, peaceful and prosperous Year of the Sheep!”
And so say all of us!
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