Chinese leaders have offered their Spring Festival greetings to people across the nation at a gathering to mark the incoming lunar New Year.

President Hu Jintao, top legislator Wu Bangguo, Premier Wen Jiabao and top political advisor Jia Qinglin, as well as other senior officials attended the gathering at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. Hu Jintao extended greetings to Chinese both home and abroad. He says he appreciates the help of international friends during the past year.

Premier Wen Jiabao reviewed 2010, saying China successfully dealt with the global financial crisis, kept sustainable economic growth and achieved major targets of the 11th five year plan.

The Spring Festival, is the most important traditional festival in China. It falls on February 3rd this year.