PRESIDENT of United Democratic Party, Sir Thomas Chan hopes the Chinese New Year of the Goat will bring many good tidings and rich blessings to the Chinese community and their families.
Sir Thomas made this remark when celebrating the event at Honiara Hotel on Thursday night.
“I wish you strength, honour, and good judgement this New Year,” he said.
“I sincerely wish our beloved Solomon Islands flourishes and its people live in peace, harmony and prosperity,” he said.
Sir Thomas hoped the year will bring a good weather that gently blows fortune with timely rain for abundant harvest.
Chinese New Year’s Day is the new moon day of the first lunar year.
From Chinese astrology predictions, the year of the Goat is a mixture of the bitter and the sweet, and is full of opportunities.
Sir Thomas said one needs to take heed of hidden misfortunes.
“The year brings mix-blessings, full of adventures, especially challenges in the international arena from economic wrestling to terrorism activities.
“I appeal to our people to be on guard against risky investments and under-takings,” he said.
Meanwhile, Sir Thomas acknowledged the contributions the Chinese community made the economy over the years in the commercial and industrial sectors.
He also extended his gratitude to the government (past and current), and people of Solomon Islands for their support and cordial understanding rendered to the Chinese community in Honiara and other parts of the country.
Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare was the guest of honour on the night.
