“I hope all Albertans of Tibetan descent enjoy a wonderful new year as they usher in the Year of the Rat.
“Across our province, families will gather to clean and decorate their homes, filling rooms with fragrant incense and sharing traditional foods like khapse. They will exchange gifts, visit friends, dance and pray for good fortune.
“Most of all, they will immerse themselves in their ancient culture and language, as well as in the Buddhist faith that has sustained them for so long.
“As federal immigration minister, I was proud to launch a resettlement program that gave hundreds of Tibetan refugees the chance at a new beginning here in Alberta.
“On behalf of the Government of Alberta, I wish the Tibetan community a bright new year filled with happiness, peace and prosperity. Tashi delek!”