Fireworks explode over the Opera House and Harbour Bridge during the New Year’s Eve fireworks display in Sydney. Picture: AP/Rob Griffith

(VOVworld)- Millions of people around the world welcomed in the New Year on high security alert. In his New Year address, President Francois Hollande said France "has not finished with terrorism yet" and that the threat of another attack "remains at its highest level." President Hollande said to protect the French people, France has strengthened its air strikes in Syria and Iraq to attack strongholds of the evils. The French President said France will continue its military operation. He praised the French people’s solidarity after a series of terror attacks in Paris.

In his New Year message, Pope Francis said the media should give more space to positive, inspirational stories to counterbalance the preponderance of evil, violence and hate in the world. Francis said 2015 was marked by many tragedies. He said there has been violence, death, unspeakable suffering by so many innocent people, refugees forced to leaves their countries, men, women and children without homes, food or means of support. Russian President Vladimir Putin delivered a speech on the occasion of New Year 2016 calling on Russian people to unit united. He said he was ready to cope with current challenges. Chinese President Xi Jinping delivered a New Year message emphasizing the important role of Northeast Asian countries in the near future. Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak, in his New Year message, said Malaysia’s ultimate goal is building a safe, prosperous and equal society.  Myanmar President U Thein Sien called on Myanmar people to further contribute to national development. President of the National League for Democracy Ms Aung San Suu Kyi delivered a message of peace, solidarity and development.

Indonesian President Joko Widodo joined the New Year celebration with other government officials in Raja Ampat tourist city.