Russian Spokeswoman Zakharova Extends Chinese New Year Greetings, Invitation to Maslenitsa Festival

Kathmandu, February 17: Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova has extended a heartfelt congratulatory message to the Chinese people on the occasion of the Chinese New Year (Year of the Horse) 2026. Mentioning that Moscow and Beijing will welcome spring together for the first time this year, she has also invited everyone to participate in the festivals being organized in China and Russia.

In her message released on Monday, Zakharova stated, “Dear Chinese friends! The Year of the Horse is approaching. From the bottom of my heart, I wish everyone a Happy Spring Festival. In the new year, I wish you boundless energy, leadership in everything you do, immediate good fortune, and instant success!”

Highlighting the historical significance of the horse in Russian culture, she said, “In Russian culture, the image of the horse is deeply intertwined with history and is widely reflected in folk tales, fairy tales, and traditions. This year, Moscow and Beijing will welcome spring together for the first time.”

Providing information about cultural events being organized in both countries, she stated, “Large-scale Chinese New Year celebrations will be held in Moscow for the third time, while the Russian Maslenitsa festival will also be widely celebrated in Beijing. I invite you to participate in the Chinese New Year celebrations in Moscow and the Maslenitsa festival in Beijing.”

At the end of her message, she expressed greetings in both Russian and Chinese – “See you soon! 马年快乐！Happy Year of the Horse!”

This congratulatory message from the Russian Spokeswoman is expected to further deepen the cultural exchange and friendly relations between the two countries. Recently, Russia and China have declared 2026-2027 as the cross-Years of Education, while last year’s successful Russia-China Years of Culture were also concluded.