President William Ruto has wished the People's Republic of China a happy Chinese New Year 2024.
In a statement on Saturday, the President said that Kenya and China have forged deep bilateral ties.
"On behalf of the government and people of the Republic of Kenya and that of my own, I convey to Your Excellency and through you to the Government and People of the People’s Republic of China, best wishes for a Happy Chinese New Year 2024," he said.
He said over the years Kenya and China have forged and enjoyed warm and strong relations based on friendship, mutual trust and commitment to progress.
"On 14th December 2023, Kenya and China celebrated the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations," he said.
"As you welcome the Year of the Dragon, which symbolizes good health, good luck, power, strength and wisdom, we desire that the government and people of Kenya will progress along the path that we have jointly charted for the Kenya-China strategic partnership."
The President assured the China government of supporting the members of the Chinese community in Kenya as they contribute to the transformative partnership between Kenya and China.
"Happy New Year"
Chinese New Year is a festival that celebrates the beginning of a new year on the traditional lunisolar Chinese calendar.
The Lunar New Year falls on 10 February, a Saturday.
It is associated with several myths and customs.
The festival was traditionally a time to honour deities as well as ancestors.
The Chinese have 12 lunar years with each being named after an animal like a dragon, horse, rabbit, or snake among others.
