Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva sent a message on Saturday to all Chinese living in Brazil wishing them a happy lunar New Year, which falls on February 7.

"On the occasion of the Chinese New Year, I want to express to members of the Chinese community in Brazil all my best wishes of happiness, health and prosperity," Lula said in his message.

"I also want to express my New Year greetings to all Chinese people, to the government of this great country," he said.

In his message, Lula wished China more prosperous and the friendship between Brazil and China "enjoying more solid and lasting development."

It is estimated that more than 200,000 Chinese live in Brazil.
 
(Xinhua News Agency January 28, 2008)