The event attracted nearly 400 guests, including officials and parliamentarians of Canada, foreign diplomats, international experts and scholars interested in Vietnam, and representatives of the Vietnamese community from across the North American country.
In his opening remarks, Ambassador Pham Vinh Quang gave a brief review of Vietnam’s eight-decade journey, driven by its people’s aspirations for independence, freedom, and a strong and prosperous socialist country.
Highlighting the sound connections between Vietnam and Canada, he said they are built on sustainable cooperation and profound trust, with both sides viewing each other as true friends and important partners.
Rob Oliphant, Parliamentary Secretary to the Canadian Minister of Foreign Affairs, perceived that bilateral ties have been flourishing over years.
He said he was moved by the artists wearing Canadian flag-themed ao dai and performing the two countries’ national anthems at the ceremony, considering this as a symbol of the countries’ bonds.
Oliphant also appreciated the contributions by the nearly 300,000 Vietnamese-Canadians, who have served as a bridge helping enhance mutual understanding.
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An ao dai show by Vietnamese students in Canada at the ceremony |
Meanwhile, Senator Yuen Pau Woo and member of the House of Commons Shaun Chen, who co-chairs the Canada – Vietnam Parliamentary Friendship Group, noted they are impressed with the development of bilateral ties, as well as Vietnam’s successes over 80 years since gaining independence.
At the event, Vietnam’s development was reflected in a traditional art performance directed by ao dai designer Si Hoang. The performance featured both Vietnamese artists and overseas Vietnamese people, offering participants a glance at the country’s traditional culture.
Source: VNA