China, Kyrgyzstan extend Nowruz greetings
Diplomats from China and Kyrgyzstan extended their congratulations on the occasion of Nowruz (Persian new year), emphasizing the festival’s cultural significance and its role in strengthening international ties.
In a message to Mehr News Agency, Kyrgyz Ambassador to Iran Turdakun Sydykov described Nowruz as a cherished tradition among the Kyrgyz people, symbolizing peace, harmony, and renewal. “For the Kyrgyz people, as well as for Iranians and many Central Asian nations, Nowruz is an invaluable heritage of our ancestors, a festival of unity and prosperity,” he said.
Sydykov highlighted traditional Kyrgyz customs associated with the celebration, including the preparation of “sumolek,” a nutrient-rich dish made from sprouted wheat, cooked collectively by families and neighbors as they sing folk songs and share stories. He also noted that Nowruz festivities in Kyrgyzstan feature theatrical performances, sports competitions, and traditional equestrian games.
Recognizing the festival’s international significance, he recalled that UNESCO added Nowruz to its Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2009, and the United Nations declared March 21 as International Nowruz Day in 2010. Sydykov expressed hope for continued strengthening of Kyrgyz-Iranian relations and extended his best wishes for peace and prosperity to the people of both nations.
Similarly, Chinese Ambassador to Iran Zong Peiwu, in his congratulatory message, underscored the historical and cultural connections between China and Iran. He noted that both countries celebrate traditional new year festivals—Nowruz in Iran and the Chinese Spring Festival—reflecting a shared appreciation for renewal and happiness.
“These two traditional celebrations, which symbolize the hopes and aspirations of the peoples of China and Iran for the new year, reflect the shared passion of two ancient civilizations for togetherness, happiness, and liveliness,” Zong said.
He further emphasized the enduring cultural exchanges between China and Iran, dating back to the Silk Road era, and highlighted a recent cultural initiative by the Chinese Embassy in Tehran. The embassy hosted a joint concert, “Chinese New Year Together,” featuring performances by musicians from the University of Tehran, as part of efforts to deepen mutual understanding through the arts.
As both envoys acknowledged Nowruz’s spirit of renewal and unity, their messages reflected a broader commitment to fostering cross-cultural ties and strengthening diplomatic relations through shared traditions.