NEW Year’s Eve celebrations are kicking off around the world with India, Pakistan and Afghanistan welcoming 2018. Here are live updates and the latest news from across the globe as the New Year approaches.
Samoa was the first country to officially welcome the new year, followed shortly by New Zealand and Australia.
About 1.6 million people gathered in Sydney Harbour around 1pm GMT, to watch the breathtaking display of fireworks that ushered in the new year.
The fireworks display was held over the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House, coupled with a laser lights, music and cheers.
Japan, South Korea and several smaller islands spread across the Pacific were the next nations to flip over the calendars. China, the Philippines and Singapore have joined the jubilation at 4pm GMT.
Outlying parts of the US, such as Hawaii and Alaska will be among the last places on the planet to celebrate New Year’s Eve.
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