Diplomats have conveyed New Year wishes to the people of Ethiopia , celebrating the country's rich cultural heritage and expressing optimism for its future. Ethiopians do not celebrate their New Year on January 1 like many part of the world. The Ethiopian New Year falls on September 11 or 12 during a leap year. The country has its own unique calendar in the world with 13 months. Each of the 12 months has 30 days. The 13th month, Pagumen, has 5 days or 6 during each leap year. Ethiopians are about to receive their new year tomorrow. Diplomats based in Addis Ababa have conveyed New Year wishes to the people of Ethiopia , expressing optimism for its future. Talking to ENA, Chargé d'Affaires a.i. of the Chinese Embassy, in Addis Ababa Shen Qinmin wished the Ethiopian people a happy new year while honoring their rich cultural history and expressing hope for the future of their nation. 'I deeply admire and appreciate the vibrant cultural heritage of this great country,' Qinmin stated. Much like Ethiopia, China also follows a lunisolar calendar, celebrating the Chinese Lunar New Year he said, adding both of our countries honor our traditional New Year celebrations, reflecting the strength and diversity of the unique cultures. 'We share a common understanding and appreciation of these traditions. Just as the Chinese New Year symbolizes happiness, hope, and a fresh start, Ethiopia's New Year carries similar message of renewal and optimism.' In 2017, I am confident that Ethiopia will continue to enjoy a bright and prosperous future, he the Chinese diplomat stated. Both China and Ethiopia have ancient civilizations and long-term planning that underpins our strength. Our shared commitment to sustainable economic growth offers ample opportunities for collaboration in the coming New Year, Qinmin said. 'I believe 2017 Ethiopian year will usher in a new era of prosperity for both our nations.' Ethiopia has already made significant strides in key economic areas such as agriculture, digital economy, and industriali zation. Chinese investors are keenly interested in these sectors he said, adding FOCAC summit held last week will infuse new momentum and dynamics into our economic cooperation, Qinmin affirmed. Ethiopia, is also laying more solid foundation for further economic development aimed at ensuring long term prosperity, he added. The outgoing European Union Delegation Head in Ethiopia, Ambassador Roland Kobia extended new year best wishes. 'Congratulations and Happy New Year to everyone. When I came to Ethiopia, I heard a lot about the togetherness, and this is a concept that I think is very important, if it's well applied, it is important that all Ethiopians move together in the right direction. I wish you good luck.' The ambassador wished good luck to all Ethiopians and expressed hope that all of the people will generate a peaceful country. Pakistani Ambassador to Ethiopia, Atif Sharif Mian on his part has extended best wishes to the people of Ethiopia and shared his admiration for the country's beauty a nd potential. The Ambassador described Ethiopia's rich and diverse landscape, as a 'beautiful bouquet of flowers, with each flower showcasing its own color and identity.' He emphasized the importance of unity among Ethiopians, highlighting how embracing diversity can strengthen the nation. The Ambassador expressed his belief in Ethiopia's remarkable potential, noting the country's abundant natural resources and the intelligence of its people. 'But there are a lot that people of Ethiopia can achieve, and as a country, it can become the leader of Africa, because there is huge potential. You have abundant natural resources and intelligent people,' ambassador added. FAO representative in Ethiopia and Sub-Regional Coordinator for Eastern Africa, Farayi Zimudzi on her part has extended her heartfelt New Year greetings to the Ethiopian people. In her best wishes for the year 2017, she said 'I would like to wish the Ethiopian people a fantastic 2017 Year.' She highlighted the FAO's ongoing commitment to supp orting Ethiopia's agricultural and food security initiatives as the country embarks on a new year. Source: Ethiopian News Agency