World welcomes 2026 with hopes of peace, stability and prosperity
The New Year 2026 has begun across several countries around the world, with people celebrating amid hopes for peace, stability and prosperity.
In New Zealand, spectacular fireworks lit up the sky over Auckland as the iconic Sky Tower became the center of New Year celebrations. A large number of citizens gathered around the tower to witness the dazzling display as the country rang in the new year.
Australia also welcomed 2026 with grand celebrations. In Sydney, a breathtaking fireworks show illuminated the Sydney Harbour, while hundreds of people gathered along the coastline to celebrate the arrival of the new year.
Across the globe, countries marked the occasion with traditional and modern festivities. In South Korea, the new year was welcomed by ringing a traditional bronze bell, symbolizing hope and renewal. In the United Arab Emirates, a spectacular fireworks display was planned at Dubai’s Burj Khalifa, one of the world’s tallest buildings.
Major global cities including New York, London and Paris are also set to host large-scale New Year celebrations, attracting millions of spectators.
In Beijing, a New Year tea party featured a traditional opera performance. Addressing the event, Chinese President Xi Jinping stated that China would move forward with more proactive macroeconomic policies in 2026.
The celebrations reflected a shared global spirit of optimism as nations step into the new year with renewed aspirations for progress and harmony.
