Johannesburg – The Chinese New Year is going to be celebrated on Sunday, 22 January 2023.
The Chinese zodiac indicates that 2023 is the “Year of the Rabbit” – predicted to be a year of hope.
China is in the grip of a devastating resurgence of Covid-19 that has seen some 60 000 people die in just one month making the promise of the new year more needed.
There is hope indeed. Green shoots are sprouting. Indications are that China’s growth will rebound to 4.9% in 2023, with more stimulus on the cards.
The Rabbit – the fourth animal in the Chinese Lunar calendar – is a symbol of longevity, peace, and prosperity in Chinese culture.
With just four days left to the celebrations, South Africa has congratulated China and its people on the new year.
In a statement issued Wednesday, the Presidency said: “President Cyril Ramaphosa extends his best wishes to the Government and people of the People’s Republic of China on the occasion of the Chinese Lunar New Year and Annual Spring Festival”.
The statement added: “President Ramaphosa has, on behalf of the Government and people of South Africa, expressed his wish that the advent of the Year of the Rabbit will indeed endow citizens of the People’s Republic of China with the longevity, peace, and prosperity associated with the zodiac sign for the year ahead”.
“South Africa values the vibrant economic relations and political cooperation that characterise its partnership with the People’s Republic of China.”
President Ramaphosa said: “My dear brothers and sisters from China and all Chinese communities around the world: I wish you all a happy Lunar New Year and a prosperous Spring Festival 2023.
“On behalf of the government and people of South Africa, I wish the government and the people of China, including here in South Africa, a happy and fulfilling time of goodwill, celebration, and friendship, as you renew the bonds between friends or reunite with family during this period.”
“As we enter the New Year, we are also celebrating the 25th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Republic of South Africa and the People’s Republic of China in 1998.
“In addition, South Africa will succeed China as Chair and host of the next BRICS Summit, during which we hope to receive His Excellency, President Xi Jinping in South Africa. These occasions provide ample cause for celebration.”
In South Africa, celebrations of the Year of the Rabbit will take place at China Towns and Malls.
