Lunar New Year Message from DPM Nick Clegg MP

" Dear Friends,

I would like to take this opportunity to wish the Chinese communities in the UK and around the world a very happy New Year on what is the start of the most important festival in the Chinese Lunar calendar.

2012 is the Year of the Dragon, traditionally symbolising energy, vitality and enthusiasm: a spirit exemplified by the enduring contribution of the Chinese community's businesses inBritain. Up and down theUnited Kingdom, glorious festivals of music, of colour and of cuisine will brighten our towns and cities.

2012 also marks the 40th anniversary of full diplomatic relations between UK and China. We've seen the dramatic rise of China over the last few decades and I hope that we can harness the vibrancy and dynamism of the East to boost our economies in the West for our mutual benefit.

Let us welcome the new year of the Dragon with optimism and confidence, knowing that working with our diverse communities we can build a better and brighter future for the next generation.

May I wish all who celebrate this Spring festival a Happy and Prosperous New Year in 2012:

Gong Xi Fa Cai! Xin Nian Kuai Le! "

Foreign Secretary William Hague's Message on Chinese New Year

"I would like to wish the Chinese communities in Britain, China, and around the world a very happy Chinese New Year. I hope that the year of the Dragon brings you and your family good luck and fortune.

2012 will be a significant year for relations between Britain and China with further cause for celebration as we mark the 40th Anniversary of full diplomatic ties with the People's Republic of China. We also look forward to building on the success of the Beijing Olympics as the torch passes to London this year.

Britain and China enjoy an increasingly deep and broad relationship – rapidly increasing trade and investment, strengthened dialogue between our two governments, and bringing our people closer through growing exchanges in education and tourism.

Britain values this relationship because many of the world's challenges in the coming year are global in nature. It is in the interest of both our countries to work constructively together on matters of common concern.

I hope that the year of the Dragon brings greater success and prosperity for British and Chinese communities across the world.

Happy New Year."