On February 4, 2025, a Lunar New Year reception was held on Parliament Hill, with Prime Minister Trudeau delivering a speech. (Photo: Red Maple /Betty)

[Red Maple/Betty, Helen] – On February 4, 2025, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau attended a Lunar New Year reception on Parliament Hill, celebrating the Year of the Snake alongside federal ministers, members of Parliament, and over 500 guests from diverse communities across Toronto, Montreal, and Ottawa.

Among the attending officials were Minister of International Trade Mary Ng, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Immigration Paul Chiang, and MPs Jean Yip, Yasir Naqvi, Jenna Sudds, Helena Jaczek, Leah Taylor Roy, Majid Jowhari, Ali Ehsassi, and Bardish Chagger. The event was filled with festivity and cultural vibrancy, reflecting Canada’s commitment to multiculturalism.

On February 4, 2025, a Lunar New Year reception was held on Parliament Hill, hosted by MPs Jean Yip and Yasir Naqvi. (Photo: Red Maple /Helen)

Celebrating Diversity and Lunar New Year

The event was co-hosted by Jean Yip and Yasir Naqvi. In his speech, Paul Chiang expressed gratitude to the Liberal Party’s Chinese-Canadian Caucus for organizing the celebration. He highlighted that Lunar New Year is not just a tradition of the Chinese community but a vital part of Canada’s multicultural fabric. He also shared a personal connection to the holiday, noting that his family lineage dates back 3,000 years, deepening his appreciation for the cultural and spiritual significance of the festival.

Mary Ng also addressed the audience, emphasizing that Lunar New Year celebrations have spread across Canada, demonstrating the country’s inclusive values. “Lunar New Year is no longer just for the Chinese community—it’s a festival that all Canadians can enjoy,” she said, lightheartedly adding, “And who doesn’t love red envelopes?” The crowd responded with warm laughter and applause.

She also praised Prime Minister Trudeau's leadership, stating that he has advanced the development of an inclusive society in Canada.

On February 4, 2025, a Lunar New Year reception was held on Parliament Hill, with MP Paul Chiang delivering a speech. (Photo: Red Maple /Betty)

Trudeau: Unity is Canada’s Greatest Strength

Trudeau opened his remarks by mourning the passing of Aga Khan, whom he described as a “visionary spiritual leader known for his faith, generosity, and global impact.” He shared personal memories, recalling that Aga Khan was not only a friend to him but also to his late father, former Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau. He extended condolences to the Ismaili Muslim community worldwide, recognizing Aga Khan’s remarkable legacy.

Turning to the Lunar New Year theme, Trudeau expressed deep appreciation for the contributions of Chinese, Korean, and Vietnamese Canadians, noting their achievements in business, technology, and cultural development. He specifically highlighted the recently established Chinese Canadian Museum in Vancouver, calling it a symbol of the federal government’s recognition of the contributions of Chinese Canadians.

Trudeau also spoke about the resilience of Chinese-Canadians, drawing a parallel to Canada’s broader national identity. “From overcoming historical challenges to facing economic difficulties today, Canadians have always demonstrated resilience and strength,” he said.

On February 4, 2025, a Lunar New Year reception was held on Parliament Hill, with Minister of International Trade Mary Ng delivering a speech. (Photo: Red Maple /Betty)

Breakthrough in Canada-U.S. Trade Talks

During his speech, Trudeau addressed Canada’s recent economic challenges and announced that his government had successfully secured a temporary suspension of proposed U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods. He assured the audience that negotiations would continue until the tariffs were fully removed.

“In the past few weeks, we have faced significant challenges,” Trudeau said. “But what gives me hope is the solidarity among Canadians. Whether facing economic hardship or navigating global trade conflicts, Canadians always stand together, supporting one another and local businesses, demonstrating our resilience as a nation.”

He further emphasized that, in times of economic pressure, Canadians had set aside partisan divisions to form a ‘Team Canada’ approach, working together to protect national interests. “We are more united than ever, and we are more determined than ever. As long as we continue working together, Canada’s future will be brighter.”

On February 4, 2025, a Lunar New Year reception was held on Parliament Hill. (Photo: Red Maple /Betty)

Traditional Lion Dance and Cultural Performances

Following the speeches, the evening transitioned into vibrant cultural performances. The Fo Guang Shan Ottawa Youth Drum Team delivered a powerful and synchronized drumming performance, setting an energetic tone for the celebration. A group of young lion dancers, aged 5 to 15, then took the stage, captivating the audience with their dynamic and acrobatic display.

Trudeau personally participated in the “dotting of the lion’s eyes” ceremony, symbolizing good fortune, and performed the “cai qing” (plucking the greens) ritual, where he handed a head of lettuce (symbolizing wealth) to the lion dancers—wishing prosperity and good luck for the new year.

The evening continued with diverse performances from various cultural groups, reinforcing the theme of inclusivity in Canada’s Lunar New Year celebrations. Attendees enjoyed traditional delicacies, took part in cultural exchanges, and embraced the joyous atmosphere.

On February 4, 2025, a Lunar New Year reception was held on Parliament Hill, where MP Bardish Chagger took a group photo with the Red Maple reporting team. (Photo: Red Maple /Xie Sheng)

Bardish Chagger Reflects on Canada-China Cooperation

A notable moment during the reception was the encounter between MP Bardish Chagger (Waterloo) and the Red Maple Media Team, whom she warmly recognized. Chagger expressed her gratitude for their past media support during her tenure as Speaker of the House of Commons and Minister of Small Business and Tourism. She particularly recalled their coverage of her 2018 visit to China and the Canada-China Year of Tourism initiative.

“I’m so happy that we worked on meaningful projects together to strengthen Canada-China relations,” she said. “Let’s continue to make efforts, and I believe that our relations will improve and grow stronger.”

On February 4, 2025, a Lunar New Year reception was held on Parliament Hill. (Photo: Red Maple /Betty)

Looking Ahead: Unity in Diversity

The Lunar New Year reception at Parliament Hill not only highlighted the federal government’s recognition of the festival but also underscored the growing influence of the Chinese-Canadian community. As Canada embraces multiculturalism, Lunar New Year has become a nationwide celebration enjoyed by people of all backgrounds.

With festivities continuing across the country, Trudeau’s speech sent a clear message—in times of challenge, unity remains Canada’s greatest strength. Together, Canadians will build a more prosperous and inclusive future.