New Year’s Greetings from China

New Year’s Greetings from China

<p> Within the framework of New Year celebrations, the cities of Kazan and Zibo exchanged video greetings. This initiative demonstrates that even cities separated by thousands of kilometers are able to maintain constructive dialogue based on mutual respect and trust. International cooperation between cities remains an important element of global engagement, and Zibo is a reliable friend of Kazan, with relations built on mutual interest and openness. </p> <p> A video address to the residents of Zibo was delivered by Evgeniya Lodvigova, Deputy Head the Mayor of Kazan, on the occasion of the Chinese New Year. In her address, she highlighted the symbolic meaning of the Spring Festival as a time of renewal, reflection on achievements, and respect for traditions. It also emphasized that Kazan highly values China’s rich cultural heritage and follows the progress of Zibo. Evgeniya Lodvigova expressed confidence that 2026 would bring the city prosperity and further achievements in the economic and social spheres. The video greeting from Kazan will be broadcast on Zibo television during the Spring Festival celebrations. </p> <p> A New Year’s video address to the residents of Kazan was delivered by Ms. Hu Xiaohong, Deputy Mayor of the Zibo Municipal People’s Government. She extended best wishes to Kazan on behalf of the Municipality and the city’s 4.7 million residents. Ms. Hu Xiaohong noted that 2025 marked the 40th anniversary of the development of Zibo’s international relations with sister cities. Over the years, an extensive network of international partnerships has been established, covering five continents and bringing together 40 cities from 25 countries. She also highlighted that a series of anniversary events, including the Second International Friendship Week, were successfully held in 2025. These activities brought together more than 300 guests from 28 countries and resulted in a number of practical outcomes. </p> <p> According to the Chinese lunar calendar, 2026 is the Year of the Fire Horse, which symbolizes good fortune, progress, reliability, and partnership. As China enters the period of its 15th Five-Year Plan (2026–2030), Zibo expressed its readiness to continue close cooperation with Kazan, strengthen mutual trust and understanding, expand economic and trade relations, and promote cultural exchange, thereby creating new opportunities for mutually beneficial cooperation. </p> <p> The exchange of video greetings has become an established tradition that strengthens ties between Tatarstan and China. For example, in February 2024, school students from Kazan sent New Year greetings to the residents of Qingdao ahead of the Year of the Dragon. </p>

2025-12-16T13:37:54+0300