On February 5, 2018, Consul General Hong Lei attended Chinese New Year Celebrations held by Governor Rauner in the state government building in Chicago. Principal Renjie Fu of Ray Chinese School and 50 teachers and students were invited to the Governor’s office to celebrate the Chinese New Year.

In the speech, Governor Rauner said that we were here today to celebrate the Chinese Spring Festival of the Year of Dog. Dog is the symbol of loyalty, courage and responsibility, qualities that are shared by the people of Illinois and China. Illinois is willing to continue to strengthen cooperation with China, deepen the friendship between the two peoples, and make greater contribution together with the Chinese Consulate in Chicago. Governor Rauner wished a Happy Chinese Spring Festival to the teachers and students of the Ray Chinese school and all Chinese people living in Illinois.

Consul General Hong Lei thanked Governor Rauner for hosting the celebration. He said that we were here to share the long and splendid Chinese culture with the people of Illinois, and also to celebrate the deep friendship and partnership between Illinois and China. Governor Rauner’s visit to China last year gave a strong boost to the cooperation between Illinois and China. In the new year, we stand ready to deepen the mutually beneficial cooperation with Illinois and bring more tangible benefits to the people of both sides.

Governor Rauner’s office was decorated with festive red lanterns and colorful lights. The students and teachers from the Ray Chinese School performed poem recitation, martial arts and chorus at the celebration. They then put a set of red Spring Festival couplets on the door of Governor’s Office together with Governor Rauner.

After the celebration, Consul General Hong Lei gave an interview to ABC Chicago.