Mr. Speaker, I am honoured to welcome Nowruz, the Persian new year and arrival of spring.
Recognized by the Parliament of Canada, Nowruz is a 3,000-year-old tradition celebrated by Iranian, Afghani, Azeri, Turkish, and other cultures rooted in central and western Asia. This festival embodies a wealth of ancient traditions and is a time when families and friends join together at the haft seen table to celebrate new beginnings, exchange gifts, enjoy traditional delicacies, and signify hope for the year ahead. It is an opportunity to renew our collective commitment to harmony, acceptance, and understanding.
This year, Nowruz takes on special meaning as we also celebrate Canada's 150th birthday.
Mr. Speaker, through you, I say to all Canadians celebrating Nowruz:
[Member spoke in Farsi as follows:]
Har Ruz etan Nowrouz, Nowruz etan Pyrouz.