Joburg Consul-General Hosts Chinese New Year Celebrations
By Sithembile Moyo
Chinese New Year, or the Spring Festival, is a festival that celebrates the beginning of a new year on the traditional lunisolar Chinese calendar.
This year is called the ‘Year of the Snake’ and the People’s Republic of China Consulate General in Johannesburg hosted the celebration held on Friday, 24 January 2025 in Sandton.
The occasion was marked by a powerful keynote speech from Consul General in Johannesburg, Pan Qingjiang. His address emphasized the importance of unity, cultural exchange, and the strengthening of ties between China and South Africa.
Speaking before an esteemed audience, including prominent South African dignitaries such as the Speaker of the Gauteng Provincial Legislature, Free State MEC for Health, mayors of local municipalities in the provinces and business leaders, Qingjiang highlighted the essence of the Lunar New Year, or Spring Festival.
“The festival embodies the Chinese philosophy of peace, amity, and harmony, values that resonate universally,” he stated. He also noted the festival’s recent recognition by UNESCO as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, signifying its global cultural importance.
Qingjiang reflected on China’s achievements over the past year, including steady economic progress, advancements in innovation, and contributions to global governance.
He underscored China’s commitment to fostering stronger ties with South Africa, celebrating the elevation of their relationship to an “all-round strategic cooperative partnership in the new era.”
The Consul General extended gratitude to South Africans for supporting the development of China-South Africa relations and highlighted the mutual benefits of collaboration. “Looking into the new year,” he said, “China will continue to work with all countries, including South Africa, to enhance mutual learning among cultures and create a better future for the world.”
The speech also previewed a bright 2025, emphasizing high-quality development, international cooperation, and sub-national exchanges with Gauteng and Free State provinces.
The event also included various cultural experiences, cuisine and performances.
Pan’s message resonated deeply with the audience, setting a tone of optimism and cultural harmony for the celebration. He thanked all partners of the Consul General and hopes to form new friendships in the new year.
