January 30 marked an important day for the Chinese community in Fiji as they celebrated their spring festival in preparation for the New Year.

The Chinese Ambassador to Fiji, Zhang Ping, welcomed guests including Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama and his wife Mary, members of the diplomatic corps, the Chinese community and business representatives.

The reception function started with the traditional drumbeats of the Lion dance signifying the farewell of the year of the goat and the arrival of the year of the monkey.

Ambassador Zhang explained that 2015 was a crucial year for China. China’s economy has achieved 6.9 per cent GDP growth, with the total volume reaching 67.6 trillion RMB yuan which is equivalent to 10.3 trillion USD.

Last year also marked the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and Fiji.

Bilateral trade has grown steadily between the two countries. It also marks the 160th anniversary of the arrival of the Chinese community here.

All guests celebrated as they look forward to entering the new year of the Fire Monkey – which symbolises strength, vitality and accomplishments in the Chinese culture.

Edited by Maraia Vula

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