Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu wished the people joy, prosperity and good fortune in the Year of the Snake.

In a video message issued on Tuesday, the CE said: "This year is the Year of the Snake. In Chinese culture, the snake is nimble and agile, and is a symbol of prosperity and wealth. This year, Hong Kong will once again show its agility and resilience with flexible thinking to innovate, to reform, and to seek further development as we strive to build a bright future."

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He mentioned the impending public debut of the panda twins and the gift of panda from the motherland while noting "Hong Kong is full of cheerful events."  

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"Celebrating the Chinese New Year is one of our happiest moments," the CE said in his message. "We are busy gathering with family and friends, doing New Year shopping and buying festive flowers for our homes, preparing for the New Year to come."    

"My wife and I wish the people of Hong Kong good health in the Year of the Snake. May you have joy, prosperity and good fortune in the Year of the Snake!"