In pictures: The world welcomes 2002

After a year containing tragedy and uncertainty, revellers around the world partied and prayed for good times in 2002.

Cubans cheer as the clock counts down to 2002

New Year was celebrated in China, despite the Chinese New Year being in February

New York forgot the atrocities and war on terror for an old-fashioned celebration

In Tokyo, families gathered to pray for better times in 2002

Young revellers braved the cold to party in central London

Battles with bush fires were briefly forgotten, as the people of Sydney defiantly celebrated