Toronto, February 6 — Amid light snowfall, the Chinese Consulate-General in Toronto hosted its 2026 Chinese New Year Reception on February 6, celebrating the Year of the Horse with representatives from all three levels of the Canadian government, as well as leaders from community organizations, business sectors, media and student groups.
Consul General Luo Weidong delivered the keynote address, reviewing recent progress in China–Canada relations and outlining prospects for enhanced cooperation. The evening also featured a series of cultural performances, highlighted by a special appearance from renowned Peking Opera artist Yu Kuizhi, whose performance received extended applause.
Consul General Highlights Progress and Future Cooperation
In his speech, Luo extended Chinese New Year greetings and noted major achievements China recorded in 2025. He emphasized that China concluded the final year of its 14th Five-Year Plan with GDP surpassing 140 trillion yuan and a growth rate of 5.0%, contributing significant momentum to global economic recovery.
Regarding China–Canada relations, Luo pointed to renewed positive momentum following the meeting between President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Mark Carney in Gyeongju. Carney’s subsequent visit to China, during which eight cooperation agreements were signed, established what Luo described as “a solid foundation” for collaboration in trade, energy, cultural exchange and more.
Looking ahead, Luo said 2026 marks both the beginning of China’s 15th Five-Year Plan and a new phase in developing a modernized strategic partnership between China and Canada. He called on both sides to seize opportunities brought by China’s development, strengthen political mutual trust and expand practical cooperation. Citing the spirit of the Year of the Horse, he encouraged all sectors to “move forward with energy and resolve.”
Cultural Showcase Elevates the Celebration
After the speeches, the program shifted into an evening of traditional Chinese cultural performances. Peking Opera master Yu Kuizhi delivered the night’s most anticipated performance, appearing in full costume and presenting classic opera excerpts with powerful vocals and refined technique. Many attendees from the Chinese Canadian community described the experience as deeply emotional and culturally uplifting.
The reception also featured live calligraphy demonstrations, martial arts performances, children’s dances welcoming the Year of the Horse, and traditional Chinese folk dance. Calligraphers wrote auspicious phrases such as “Success Upon Arrival” and “Peace and Prosperity,” while martial artists showcased dynamic routines that conveyed the spirit of Chinese kung fu.
Strong Community Spirit and Optimism for Bilateral Relations
Officials from federal, provincial and municipal governments extended Chinese New Year greetings, praised China’s development achievements, and expressed hopes for further cooperation between the two countries. Many commended the cultural performances as a meaningful bridge promoting understanding and exchange.
Community representatives said the reception strengthened their sense of connection with their heritage, and that performances by esteemed artists such as Yu Kuizhi inspired pride among overseas Chinese. They reaffirmed their commitment to contributing to mutual understanding and friendship between the peoples of China and Canada.
A Vibrant Community in the GTA
The Greater Toronto Area is home to nearly 800,000 Chinese Canadians. For many, this reception was not only a festive gathering but also a reflection of improving bilateral sentiment. The event highlighted the richness of Chinese culture for mainstream Canadian society and added fresh momentum to people-to-people exchanges between the two countries.
By Remon Chen
