OTTAWA, May 1st, 2018– The National launch of the 16th annual TD Taste of Asia Festival was held on Parliament Hill on Tuesday May 1st, 2018 as a special reception in light of Asian Heritage Month. FCCM members and guests had a comfortable road trip to Ottawa surrounded by the Canadian fields and quaint towns.
Members of Parliament and Senators from across Canada joined committee members in celebrating Canadian diversity at this special reception on Parliament Hill. A special mention to MP Mary Ng, MP Shaun Chen, and MP Jean Yip as partners for this event and were amongst the numerous MP’s whom we thank for their continued support and participation.
Numerous dignitaries such as, H.E Seljuk Unal – the Ambassador of the Republic of Turkey, Mr. Heng xiaojun – the Minister Counselor of the Chinese Embassy, Ms. Dao Vibulpanich – the Deputy Chief of Mission from the Thai Embassy, were also present at the reception. Performances and featured Asian cuisine were sponsored by the Federation of Chinese Canadians in Markham (FCCM) to present a foretaste of the Taste of Asia Festival on June 22, 23, and 24th, 2018 in Markham.
This year, we had two beautiful dances from Lisa lee. She performed a traditional Chinese ribbon dance and a fan dance as a preview to her performance at the Taste of Asia festival. In celebration of the traditional clothing of the Han ethnic culture, we had a group of university students present in full Han style ancient clothing for photos and to showcase the beauty and style of their Chinese Heritage in ancient times.
As the official reception came to a start, Dr. Ken Ng, Chairman of FCCM and Taste of Asia kicked off the event with a welcoming speech centered on diversity and celebration of cultures. Mobeen Khaja, the president of APMC also welcomed all cultures to attend, and that the Taste of Asia festival is one that hosts all kinds of people from over 170 countries in one location every year. Jane Philpott, Minister of Indigenous services was also present. She was enthusiastic in the return of this annual festival and is a great supporter of cultural heritage, social equity, and celebrating diversity.
Member of Parliament for Markham-Thornhill Mary Ng was our generous co-host for the event. Her speech recognized the significance and importance of the residents of Markham-Thornhill and centered on diversity, celebration, and the importance of celebrating and promoting our cultural heritage. “The Taste of Asia Festival is a great opportunity for local businesses to promote and a reason to celebrate who we are”. Mary emphasized that Canada is a multicultural mosaic and this is a true celebration of harmony between all Asian cultures.
The Minister Counsellor of the People’s Republic of China Embassy, Heng Xiao Jun was one of our distinguished guests and spoke on the celebration of Asian Heritage. “2018 is the China and Canada tourism year and I encourage Canadians to travel, visit China, and experience a cultural exchange”
The 2018 Taste of Asia is proud to introduce Turkey as the feature country of the festival. H.E Seljuk Unal, the Ambassador to the Turkish Embassy radiated energy and excitement in announcing his country’s involvement. “Taste of Asia is a platform to build bridges and learn about new cultures”. H.E Unal noted that Turkey was rooted in Asia and that this festival is an eye opener for everyone to sample delicious Turkish cuisine, enjoy performances and immerse themselves in Turkish culture. With over 100,000 Turkish Canadians in Canada, and this year being the year of Troy in Istanbul, he hopes for an increase in multicultural exchange and furthered interest in Turkey.
The 16th annual Taste of Asia Festival marks a new cultural partnership between Canada and Turkey. “With thanks to TD Bank Group, the Governments of Canada and Ontario, the support of the Turkish Embassy,and my long-time partners Mayor Frank Scarpitti and Mobeen Khaja, this year’s Taste of Asia will be very memorable as we bring back the amazing cultural performances and mouth watering food said Dr. Ken Ng, Chairman of FCCM and Taste of Asia. We will have a spectacular feature performance on Saturday night from a beautiful Hong Kong actress alongside other prominent singers. The festival features ethnic dances from Indian dance groups, and the Afghan Women’s Group, in addition to Chinese traditional dances and numerous others. Of course, don’t forget our well known street food and stinky tofu!
“The festival has grown tremendously over the years, and we look forward to celebrating this newly added partnership between Taste of Asia and Turkey” said Dr. Ken Ng, Chairman of FCCM and Taste of Asia.
About The 2018 Taste of Asia Festival
The 2018 TD Taste of Asia Festival is a three day festival of multicultural food and performances on June 22, 23 & 24 2018. The festival will take place on Kennedy Rd. And Steeles Ave. which will be closed to traffic to host the event. Admission is FREE and everyone is welcome. Over 150 booths will be there to cater to your taste buds and curiosity from Friday 7pm to 11pm, Saturday noon to 11pm and Sunday noon to 5pm. Enjoy delicious cuisine, free shows, dancing, and much more.
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