US Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken on Thursday sent greetings to allied countries that celebrate Lunar New Year.

US Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken wishes happy Lunar New Year. Source: Blinken's Twitter

He conveys the message to those he called “friends”. Blinken has repeatedly stressed the importance of allies, especially those in Asia.

In the statement, he said “I wish our friends around the world good health, peace, and fortune on the occasion of the Lunar New Year on February 12.

As millions of Americans celebrate this new lunar year, the United States stands with friends and allies to advance our shared prosperity and values as we invite all nations to join us in building a better world for future generations.

We hope the Year of the Ox will bring greater success and opportunity for all.”

Countries celebrating Lunar New Year are the majority of those in Asia.