A spectacular temple fair at UNESCO’s Paris headquarters heralded the 2026 Chinese New Year, organized by China’s permanent delegation. Director-General Khalid Al-Anani’s participation peaked when he wished everyone a Happy Chinese New Year in Mandarin, a gesture that resonated deeply with the 500-plus guests, including top UNESCO leaders and international diplomats.
Drawing parallels between the Year of the Horse’s daring spirit and the resolve needed against global headwinds, Al-Anani positioned it as a prime opportunity for UNESCO-China synergy. ‘We stand ready to fortify our cooperation,’ he declared, ending with cheers for his linguistic flourish.
Khondker M. Talha, UNESCO Assembly President, celebrated the occasion as a testament to cultural interconnectedness, where exchanges breed consensus. Invoking the horse’s life force, he rallied for trust in UNESCO’s progress, deeper ties, and collective strides in cultural and multilateral arenas.
Representative Yang XinYu framed the Spring Festival as more than tradition—it’s a conduit for reunion, shared joy, and aspirational momentum. Attendees delved into customary rituals, gaining insights into China’s cultural heritage’s timeless accumulation and its pertinence today, aligning perfectly with UNESCO’s global advocacy.