On February 16th, as the global Chinese community celebrates the Lunar New Year, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takai issued a congratulatory message on Monday, extending heartfelt greetings to all friends celebrating this traditional holiday.
February 16th marked the New Year’s Eve, with regions globally adorned with colorful decorations, filled with the festive cheer of the Lunar New Year. However, many regions continue to grapple with the turmoil of war and conflict. Against this backdrop, Sanae Takai conveyed a message of peace in her blessings, hoping that people can live peaceful lives in the new year.
She stated, “Amid the current international situation, Japan will strive to play a greater role in promoting peace and prosperity in the international community. On this occasion, I sincerely wish for world peace in the new year, allowing more people to regain peaceful lives.”
Sanae Takai mentioned, “This year is the Year of the Horse, known for its agility and strength. Especially being the Year of the Fire Horse, it is said to be a year full of energy and drive.” She further expressed, “I wish everyone a vibrant and hopeful year, filled with happiness and well-being in the new year.”
Using simplified Chinese, traditional Chinese, Japanese, and English, Sanae Takai extended her greetings in multiple languages. Apparently, different languages target different groups. Executive Director of the Indo-Pacific Strategic Think Tank and a senior Japanese media personality, Akio Yaita, noticed this detail. He posted on the social media platform X, saying, “Today, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takai delivered Lunar New Year greetings at the Prime Minister’s Official Residence. In addition to simplified Chinese, there are also traditional Chinese characters. Such details feel thoughtful, representing her blessing to the people of Taiwan and Hong Kong.”
Sanae Takai has maintained high support among the Japanese people since taking office as Prime Minister in October last year. In the Lower House general election on February 8th, she led the Liberal Democratic Party to secure an absolute majority of at least two-thirds of the lower house seats, setting a post-war record for a single party in Japanese elections. This victory paves the way for her to continue serving as Prime Minister.