On January 2nd, members of the Israel-China Friendship Society took part in the Spring Festival Walking Event organized by the Chinese Embassy in Israel to welcome the Lunar New Year of 2026.

The event was held along the Yarkon River in Tel Aviv and brought together more than 170 participants, including embassy staff, representatives of Chinese companies, overseas Chinese residents, Chinese students, and ICFS members. The group walked an 8-kilometer route along the river, from the river mouth to the China Cultural Center in Tel Aviv. The program continued with a shared Chinese lunch and a screening of a new Jackie Chan action film.

During the event, Ambassador Xiao Junzheng shared a message for the year ahead. He noted that 2026 marks the beginning of China’s 15th Five-Year Plan, and encouraged the Chinese community in Israel to “charge ahead like horses with courage, vitality, and energy,” referencing the Year of the Horse in the Chinese zodiac. He also emphasized the importance of cooperation and resilience, and expressed hope for continued growth in China-Israel exchanges and collaboration.

For our members, the day was a meaningful way to welcome the Spring Festival: combining physical activity with community connections, and strengthening ties between the people and institutions working across Israel and China.