On January 27, 2015 members of the Canada China Friendship Society were invited to a reception in honour of the Chinese New Year by His Excellency Luo Zhaohui, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Canada. Approximately 145 members of the CCFS accepted the invitation which included a buffet dinner and entertainment.
Members were greeted by Ambassador Luo Zhaohui who spoke about recent events in Canada China relations including the visit of Prime Minister Harper to China. . He also briefed guests on China’s economic development and areas of reform. He outlined plans underway to mark the 45th anniversary of diplomatic relations and the 10th anniversary of the strategic partnership between Canada and China. (Remarks)
A special guest was Mrs. Susan Gregson, Assistant Deputy Minister of Asia Pacific in the Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada. She spoke about recent developments in the bilateral relationship from a Canadian perspective.
The Co-Chair of the Canada China Friendship Society, Gary Levy, thanked the Ambassador on behalf of the membership. (Remarks) The Master of Ceremonies for the evening was Zhang Nan, Second Secretary (Culture)
In addition to a delicious buffet dinner guests were treated to a performance on the Guzheng (Zither) by Ms. Cindy (Zichan) Yang. This was followed by a performance by the Chinese Embassy’s Dance Troupe which included the wife of Ambassador Luo, Mme Jiang Yili. They performed a traditional Chinese dance, “Moonlit Night” Finally there was a Pipa, Guitar & Cello performance by Ms. Yadong Guan, Mr. Bruno Roussell and Mr. Peter Rapson.
For years the Embassy reception has been a highlight of the winter for members of the CCFS and once again the 2015 reception was much appreciated.
