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Sadiq Khan Sent Pro-European Message With London New Year's Eve Fireworks

Sadiq Khan Sent Pro-European Message With London New Year's Eve Fireworks

The display had a strong pro-Eu theme to it

Rachael Grealish

Rachael Grealish

If there's one thing you know you're going to get while spending New Year's Eve in London, it's a grand firework display and this year was no exception. However, eagle-eyed spectators might have noticed that this year's extravaganza had something of a theme to it:

Spot it?

That's right, the display saw the London Eye lit up to look like the European flag, while the phrase 'London is open' rang out from the sound system - also translated into Spanish, Polish, French, Romanian, German and Italian.

With the UK poised to leave the European Union in March, it served as a reminder that London remains a global city with a 'close relationship with Europe', as Mayor Sadiq Khan had already made clear.

Along with calling London the 'greatest city in the world' he tweeted: "Sending a message across the globe: London's diversity will always be our strength. Our one million EU citizens are Londoners, they make a huge contribution, and no matter the outcome of Brexit - they will always be welcome. Happy New Year, London."

Over 100,000 people as estimated to have gathered along the Thames to view the annual spectacular.

Yesterday,ahead of the display, Khan told the media: "Every year our capital puts on the greatest fireworks show in the world with the spectacular images of our skyline shared all around the globe.

"I'm proud that this year the millions watching around the world will see us send a message of support to more than one million EU citizens who call London their home.

NYE Fireworks in London. Credit:PA
NYE Fireworks in London. Credit:PA

"By paying tribute to our close relationship with Europe as we welcome in the New Year, we will once again show the world that London will always be open."

The London Mayor has been vocal about pro-European views since the referendum in 2016 - during which 60 percent of London voted to remain a part of the EU.

Taking place so close to the Houses of Parliament, the display sent a strong message of support and unity toward Europeans living in the UK.

Music selected for the evening also had a European feel to it, with Irish, Swedish and French artists heard over the sound systems - as well as the notable songs: 'We Are Your Friends,' 'Stay' and 'Don't Leave Me Alone'.

Featured Image Credit: PA

Topics: UK News, brexit, London