There are few places around the world without a tradition of group drinking. The English "Cheers!" is a shortcut, a one-word toast. The same thing is done in many other countries in many other languages, although there are some variations on the tradition. You might notice that Russia has several such toasts. And some places that don't traditionally use a one-word toast still practice group drinking, so they've appropriated "Cheers!"
I learned about the Chinese "Gan Bei" many years ago. My boss told me it meant "Bottoms up!" implying that the glass should be drained. You should not assume that in the other languages. It's not a bad idea to ask about drinking etiquette in a place you aren't already familiar with. -via Laughing Squid
Those of us who remember the '60's might also know 'Chimo!' in Canada. It's Innu for 'Friends', and ran through my generation.
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