ULAN BATOR, Feb. 10 (Xinhua) -- Mongolians have begun celebrating the lunar new year to welcome the Year of the Dragon on Saturday, traditionally known as the White Moon festival in the country.
The Mongolian White Moon coincides with the Chinese Lunar New Year this year.
"The White Moon is a symbol of the history and culture of our country, the unity of the people, and one of the heritage and values of our Mongolians," Mongolian President Ukhnaa Khurelsukh said in his Lunar New Year greetings to all citizens of the country.
"We happily welcome the Year of the Dragon with some good news. The population of our country reached 3.5 million, the number of livestock has been counted at around 65 million, the economic situation has improved, the domestic production has recovered, and the foreign exchange reserves have increased," Khurelsukh said, wishing happiness, health and good fortune for the people and prosperity for the country.
The White Moon, one of the most celebrated holidays in Mongolia, symbolizes the start of spring and the end of winter.
Mongolians have celebrated the White Moon for centuries as a family festival replete with ceremonies. ■
