ARTS / CULTURE & LEISURE
Mexico: Continued strategic growth and everlasting friendship
Published: Jan 26, 2025 01:02 AM
Jesus Seade, Mexican Ambassador to China Photo: Courtesy of the Mexican Embassy in China

Jesus Seade, Mexican Ambassador to China Photo: Courtesy of the Mexican Embassy in China

As the Chinese New Year approaches, marking the beginning of the Year of the Snake, it is my great honor to extend my warmest wishes to the Chinese people and authorities during this meaningful celebration. The Snake, symbolizing wisdom, transformation, and strategic growth, holds a profound place in Chinese culture, being one of the oldest and most revered totems of this ancient civilization.

In a parallel that speaks to the similarities of our cultures, the Feathered Serpent (Serpiente Emplumada), Quetzalcóatl, was one of the most fundamental gods of the ancient Mexican civilization, embodying wisdom, learning, and the essence of civilization itself. This shared reverence for the serpent as a symbol of enlightenment and progress is a testament to the cultural bridges that connect us.

Having spent several Chinese New Years in Beijing, Shenzhen, and Hong Kong, I have been deeply impressed by the joy and tradition that define these celebrations. The dedication of millions of people to returning to their hometowns to reunite with family, the beautiful decorations adorning streets, shopping malls, and homes, and the thoughtfully designed gifts portraying the zodiac animal of the year, all demonstrate the rich cultural tapestry of this celebration.

At the Mexican Embassy in China, Chinese New Year is also a cherished opportunity to connect with our local colleagues, express our gratitude for their invaluable contributions, and celebrate the bonds of friendship that unite us. It is a time that reminds me of the many similarities between our two societies, as Mexicans also cherish family gatherings and vibrant festivities that bring communities closer together.

I sincerely hope that the wisdom of the Snake will guide the relationship between Mexico and China, leading us toward continued strategic growth and an everlasting friendship between our peoples. May this Year of the Snake bring prosperity, health, and success to all.