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By Victoria Yan Yun | Photos by Angela Lui
TORONTO, ON —The Chinese Consulate-General in Toronto hosted a reception on Sept. 18 marking the 77th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China, bringing together more than 500 guests from government, the diplomatic corps, business and community organizations, as well as Chinese students and scholars.
Chinese Consul General Luo Weidong highlighted China’s economic performance and the country’s development priorities under the 15th Five-Year Plan, which begins this year. He noted that China’s GDP grew 4.7 per cent year over year in the first half of 2026.
Turning to Canada-China relations, Luo said Prime Minister Mark Carney’s visit to China earlier this year had brought new momentum to bilateral ties and efforts to build what the two governments have described as a new strategic partnership. He also pointed to growing business interest between the two countries, citing a recent Canada China Business Council survey showing that 68 per cent of Canadian companies surveyed were preparing to expand their operations in China.
Luo encouraged Canadians to make use of China’s 30-day visa-free entry policy and called for greater cooperation between China and Ontario and Manitoba in areas including trade, education, technology and cultural exchange.
Former Canadian senator Victor Oh, who recently visited Xinjiang, also addressed the gathering. Reflecting on the trip, Oh said regional development should ultimately be measured through the everyday lives and future opportunities of residents. He added that despite differences between the Canadian and Chinese political systems, the two countries have considerable potential for greater trade and investment.
Former Manitoba lieutenant governor Philip Lee also attended and addressed the reception.
The evening included a ceremonial cake-cutting, cultural performances and displays highlighting Chinese arts and traditions. Performances included Chaoshan Yingge dance and a children’s choir singing *Ode to the Motherland*, while guests also took part in activities featuring Chinese calligraphy and traditional folk crafts.
