Sheikh Mohammed wishes China a Happy New Year - in Chinese

The National -- Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, has sent a message of greetings on the occasion of Chinese New Year.

He wrote a message to the country's expatriates and all Chinese people wishing them well in Chinese on his official Twitter account.

"Congratulations to Chinese people all over the world," he wrote, adding that China is an "old friend" rich in its culture and inspiring to others.

"We wish you all the best in the new year."

China is the UAE's top trading partner, which was worth $35 billion in the first nine months of 2017.

Recent developments include news that China's Cosco's is set to build and operate a container terminal at Khalifa Port.