UN chief extends Lunar New Year greetings

In his message to nations and people worldwide celebrating the Lunar New Year, Guterres expressed hope that the Year of the Snake—symbolizing wisdom, resilience, and innovation—will bring health, happiness, prosperity, and new opportunities to humanity.

At the dawn of a new year the UN chief called on the international community to strengthen its commitment to cooperation for peace, fairness, and justice, with a shared hope and determination to build a brighter future for all.

On December 22, 2023, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution officially recognizing Lunar New Year as an annual UN holiday. The resolution acknowledges Lunar New Year as a celebration observed in many member states and encourages UN agencies to avoid holding meetings on the first day of the Lunar New Year.