Prince sends Lunar New Year message

THE PRINCE of Wales has urged the world to create a better future for the next generation by living and working in “harmony with nature and the planet”.

Charles’ appeal to “make this a year of action” was issued in a message of congratulations to those in China and across the globe celebrating the Lunar New Year, which begins tomorrow and is the Year of the Tiger.

The Lunar New Year is the start of a two-week celebration and is the most important annual holiday for billions of people around the world, particularly in East and South-East Asian countries.

During the festival, homes are festooned with red paper lanterns and families gather to share sumptuous feasts, enjoying symbolic dishes such as dumplings, representing gold ingots, and noodles, denoting long life.

In his message, the prince, inset, said: “My wife and I would like to wish a happy, healthy and prosperous new year to all those in China – and everyone celebrating the new Lunar Year across the world.

“As we enter the Year of the Tiger, known for courageous action and rising to challenge and adventure, I hope that the whole world will make this a year of action.

“Together let us create a better future for all our children by shifting the way we live and work to be in harmony with nature and the planet.

“The blessing of the tiger brings happiness to all families in the year of the tiger.

“Wishing you peace and happiness.”

To mark the start of the Lunar New Year, Charles and Camilla are due to attend an event tomorrow, although exact details have yet to be disclosed.

The prince’s message has been issued through the normal official channels, and will also appear on the Chinese social media platform Weibo.