U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry on Friday expressed his "heartfelt wishes" for the good health and prosperity of those celebrating the Lunar New Year.

"On behalf of President (Barack) Obama and the American people, I am delighted to extend best wishes to the many people around the world who celebrate the arrival of the Lunar New Year on Jan. 31," the top American envoy said in a written statement.

"As millions around the world welcome the Year of the Horse, the United States sends heartfelt wishes for good health and prosperity," he added. "May the New Year bring ever greater cooperation in pursuit of our common goals."

He reiterated that as a Pacific nation, the United States is " deeply committed" to strengthening its partnerships throughout the Asia-Pacific region.

"That's why President Obama recently announced the Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative. That's why we're investing in the Fulbright Program. And that's why we're deepening our economic cooperation, improving regional security, and advancing mutual understanding across cultures, faiths, and nations," Kerry added.