Mr. Speaker,
[Member spoke in Chinese as follows:]
Kung hay fat choi, xin nian hua leu.
[English]
Happy Chinese new year.
I have the privilege of being elected twice in the riding of Vancouver Quadra, where many constituents have roots in China, Taiwan and Hong Kong. The greater Chinese community in Canada has provided immeasurable enrichment to our country spiritually, socially, culturally and financially.
Many values and interests are shared by Canada and China, so I was pleased this week to be elected vice-chair of the Canada-China Parliamentary Association to further those interests.
Last month I represented Canada at the Asia-Pacific Parliamentary Forum in Vientiane, Laos, where I met with important Chinese parliamentarians to discuss Canada-China relations, concerns and co-operation.
On this important traditional Chinese holiday, bonne année à toute la communauté canadienne. I wish all Canadians health, happiness and prosperity in the year of the ox.