Citizens in New Zealand were among the first in the world to celebrate the arrival of the new year, with a fireworks display in Auckland lighting up the cloudy sky. Below, we detail how various places and individuals around the world bid farewell to 2023 and welcomed the new year:
* **Sydney** – Sydney welcomed 2024 with a spectacular fireworks show, coinciding with the celebration of the 50th anniversary of the iconic Sydney Opera House.
* **Vladimir Putin** – The Russian president praised Russian soldiers, calling them heroes in his New Year's address on Sunday, emphasizing unity and shared determination, without mentioning the war in Ukraine.
* **Xi Jinping** – The Chinese president stated on Sunday that China would support and enhance the country’s economic recovery in 2024 and deepen reforms for long-term economic development.
* **Kim Jong Un** – North Korean state media reported on Sunday that North Korea pledged to launch three additional spy satellites, develop military drones, and strengthen its nuclear arsenal in 2024, as leader Kim Jong Un stated that U.S. policies make it difficult to avoid war.
* **Pope Francis** – During Sunday mass at the Vatican, Pope Francis said, “I wish everyone a peaceful end to this year, and please don’t forget to pray for me.”
