Thousands celebrate the Chinese New Year festival in Pretoria

The embassy hosted this event for two main purposes; enhancing the partnership between SA-China and also celebrate Chinese tradition.

January 19, 2020

Eliot Mahlase 1 minute read

Thousands of people attended the Open Day of the Chinese Embassy in Pretoria in celebration of 2020 Chinese Lunar New Year of the Rat on Saturday.

China’s Ambassador to South Africa Lin Songtian said the celebration was all about bringing cultures together from all walks of life.

“Most of you have visited the Chinese Embassy many times, but it is quite different today. First, the Chinese Embassy is brimming with a joyful, festive, harmonious and friendly atmosphere.

“Second, we warmly welcome all of you and your families to share the joy and happiness of the most important festival in the Chinese lunar calendar-the Spring Festival,” Songtian.

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He said this was the first time the Chinese Embassy in South Africa held an Open Day event for friends from all walks of life and their families.

Songtian said the embassy hosted this event for two main purposes; enhancing the partnership between SA-China and also celebrate and share Chinese tradition.

“We thank the press and friends for promoting the developing China-South Africa relations and enhancing the mutual understanding and the friendship between China, South Africa and the rest of the world.

Second, we would like to open the Embassy to all friends to share the harmonious, open, and inclusive Chinese cultural traditions and know the Chinese people face by face. Let us pray together for a more peaceful and prosperous world and a better life for all the people in the coming new year,” he said.

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Songtian said 2020 was a lucky year full of peace and prosperity and encouraged the nations to work together for a better world.

“For this celebration, we have prepared a variety of Chinese food, snacks, and entertainment. Feast for your eyes with traditional Chinese performance at this festival.”