VICTORIA, Seychelles — First Lady Linda Ramkalawan hosted a reception yesterday to mark the Chinese New Year, welcoming members of the Chinese community and reaffirming the warm ties between Seychelles and China. The event came ahead of the Lantern Festival, the traditional close of the Lunar New Year celebrations, which this year mark the Year of the Snake.
Speaking at the reception, the Chinese ambassador, Lin Nan, said the Lantern Festival is a vital cultural bridge connecting China and Seychelles, fostering cultural exchange and contributing to local economic and social development. He added that, under the consensus reached by the two heads of state, China and Seychelles would spare no effort to deepen practical cooperation and people-to-people exchanges. Mrs Ramkalawan wished the Chinese community a Happy Lantern Festival and the very best for the year ahead.
‘As we look to the future, let us carry the spirit of the Lantern Festival with us, and let us continue to spread kindness, support one another, and cherish the bonds that unite us,’ Mrs Ramkalawan said. Chair of the Chinese Association of Seychelles, Rose-Mary Lee-Bluemner, called on the Chinese community to reflect on the importance of cultural diversity and inclusivity. The Chinese New Year celebrations began on January 29, with events across Victoria and the wider community.
