Roberto Azevedo, director-general of the World Trade Organization (WTO), wished all Chinese people a happy Year of the Rat. He said the rat symbolizes agility and diligence, exactly the spirit needed for the WTO.

Several world leaders have also extended their good wishes and best regards to the Chinese people ahead of the Chinese New Year.

President of Mauritius Prithvirajsing Roopun said he wished Chinese brothers and sisters a happy New Year and all the best. He recalled since he was a kid, people in Mauritius have been celebrating the Spring Festival.

Spain's former prime minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero extended his most sincere blessings to all Chinese people.

He said during his many trips to China, he witnessed the hard work, honesty, and kindness of Chinese people. He congratulated China for its continuous development. Modern China should become a benchmark for peace and solidarity throughout the world, he said.

Romania's former prime minister Viorica Dancila wished the Chinese people a happy and prosperous life. She said she hopes that the traditional friendship between China and Romania will last forever and that the win-win cooperation between China and Romania will continue to develop.

(Cover: World Trade Organization Chief Roberto Azevedo. /AP Photo)