The Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Panama has officially welcomed the Lunar New Year 2026, known as the Year of the Horse. Ambassador Xu Xueyuan extended festive greetings to the Panamanian people on Monday, February 17, marking the start of a new lunar cycle celebrated for its symbolism of progress and vitality. The occasion highlights deep historical ties between the two nations dating back over a century and a half.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This specific year is designated as the Bingwu Fire Horse, a combination that occurs once every sixty years within the Chinese Zodiac<\/a> system. In a detailed message, Ambassador Xu outlined the cultural significance of the horse in both Chinese and Panamanian traditions. She connected the zodiac animal’s energetic spirit to shared values and even linguistic links between the countries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n “Dear Panamanian friends, the lunar year 2026 is the year of the horse. Its first day is February 17. In China, the horse is very beloved. It presents energy, effort, and freshness to move forward,” said Ambassador Xu Xueyuan. [Translated from Spanish]<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n The ambassador specifically noted how the horse resonates within Panamanian culture. She referenced horseback riding in regions like Santa Fe and Boquete, beach rides on islands like Pellas, and the excitement of horse racing at the Presidente Rem\u00f3n Cantera racetrack. Her remarks aimed to build a bridge of mutual understanding through a common symbolic appreciation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A profound historical connection forms a cornerstone of the embassy’s New Year message. Ambassador Xu reminded the public that the first Chinese migrants arrived in Panama 171 years ago. Those early settlers played a crucial role in constructing the transoceanic railway, a monumental project often referred to as the “golden horse” for its economic importance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This railway, a precursor to the canal, is now known as the Panama Canal Railway<\/a>. The ambassador’s historical reference underscores a long-standing partnership. She further emphasized a linguistic tie, pointing out that the Chinese name for Panama incorporates the character “m\u01ce,” which directly translates to horse.<\/p>\n\n\n\n “The horse also unites China and Panama. In the Chinese name for Panama, the character ‘m\u01ce’ appears, which means horse,” added Xu. [Translated from Spanish]<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n\n
Historical Connections and a Shared Symbol<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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