2016 40th Anniversary Reception

On December 1st, 2016, members of the Canada-China Friendship Society celebrated the organization’s 40th Anniversary at a reception hosted by Chargé d’affaires Mr. Wang Wentian at the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China to Canada.  Approximately 150 members of the CCFS accepted the invitation, making this event the largest CCFS gathering of all times.

Members were greeted by Chargé d’affaires who spoke about recent events in Canada-China relations including the visit of Prime Minister Trudeau to China and Premier Li Keqiang to Canada. He also briefed guests on the potential for enhanced partnerships between both countries, both in terms of trade and people-to-people relations. Remarks

Mr. Peter Larson, the founding president of the CCFS, spoke passionately about the beginnings of the organization and its growth, parallel to the rise of China as a global power. Remarks by Peter Larson

The Co-Chair of the Canada China Friendship Society, Roy Atkinson, thanked the Ambassador on behalf of the membership and reflected on the growing presence of China in world politics. Draft Speaking Notes for CCFSO’s 40th Anniversary Celebration Dec 1 2016

In addition to a delicious buffet dinner guests were treated to a short film on Chinese architecture, a touching reflection on the reclaiming of man-made beauty almost lost to rapid economic growth.

For years, the Embassy reception has been a highlight of the winter for members of the CCFS and once again the 2016 reception was much appreciated.