Highlighting symbolic significance of the Year of the Snake, which, he said, represents wisdom, resilience and renewal, Guterres expressed his hope that the year will bring about good health, happiness, prosperity, and new opportunities.
The UN leader also called for strengthened international cooperation for peace, justice, and equality. His message resonated with a profound desire to construct a more promising future for all people.
On December 22, 2023, the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution officially recognising Lunar New Year as an annual UN holiday. Acknowledging that the holiday is observed in many member states, the resolution encourages UN agencies to refrain from scheduling meetings on the first day of the lunar calendar.
