WASHINGTON - US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton on Thursday offered her best wishes to those celebrating the Lunar New Year, saying she and President Barack Obama are committed to 21st century partnership with the people of the Asia-Pacific region.

"On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I'm delighted to send best wishes for peace, prosperity, and good health to everyone celebrating the Lunar New Year," the top US diplomat said in a written statement.

"Around the world, people will welcome the Year of the Dragon with rich and varied traditions," she said, noting that Asian Americans will gather with family and friends in communities across the United States to "celebrate their vibrant heritage and the ties that unite all of us."

"President Obama and I are committed to our 21st century partnership with the people of the Asia-Pacific region, and we will continue to deepen ties with our allies and partners, while strengthening lasting bonds of friendship and cooperation," she said.

"Throughout this new year, and in the years to come, let us continue to work together to realize new opportunities and make progress on the shared challenges we face," she added.