ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday extended warm greetings to Chinese President Xi Jinping and the people of China on the occasion of the Chinese New Year 2026, describing Pakistan and China as “iron brothers” bound by an All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership.
“Gong Xi Fa Cai,” Sharif said in a message marking the beginning of the Year of the Horse, expressing hopes for strengthened bilateral ties, peace, and prosperity.
“The Horse symbolizes energy, resilience, and speed – values that resonate deeply with our shared journey,” Sharif said and added that Pakistan and China are iron brothers, bound by an All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership and a shared vision of peace, development, and regional connectivity.
“May this new year further strengthen our enduring friendship and deepen our cooperation for the prosperity of our two peoples,” he said.
Year of the Fire Horse
Chinese New Year 2026 falls on Tuesday, February 17, marking the beginning of the Year of the Fire Horse — a rare zodiac and elemental combination that occurs once every 60 years, last seen in 1966.
The celebration, also known as the Spring Festival, traditionally spans 15 days. Preparations, known as the “Little Year,” run from February 9 to 16, followed by New Year’s Eve on February 16, when families gather for reunion dinners.
The official public holiday in China begins on February 17 and typically continues until February 23, culminating in the Lantern Festival on March 3.
In Chinese astrology, the Horse symbolizes energy, resilience, and independence, while the Fire element adds intensity, transformation, and momentum — traits often associated with bold action and new beginnings.
Homes are decorated with red lanterns and banners to invite good fortune, elders distribute red envelopes (hongbao) containing money, and traditional foods such as fish, dumplings, and rice cakes are prepared to symbolize prosperity and advancement.
The 2026 festivities also coincide with notable celestial events, including an annular solar eclipse on February 17 and a total lunar eclipse on March 3 during the Lantern Festival.
