Toronto, July 6, 2025 — On the morning of July 6, the Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in Toronto hosted an Open Day under the theme “Carrying Forward the Legacy of Friendship, Building a Peaceful Future Together”, commemorating the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. Nearly 100 guests from Chinese and Canadian communities, government, academia, and media attended the event to honor history, reflect on peace, and celebrate enduring China-Canada friendship.
This year also marks the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Canada and the 20th anniversary of the establishment of the bilateral strategic partnership. A highlight of the event was the donation ceremony of historical archives documenting the engagement between renowned Canadian international peace activist Dr. George H. H. Hall (Wen Youzhang) and China, which will be sent to Leshan, Sichuan Province, where Dr. Hall once lived and worked.
In his keynote address, Chinese Consul General Luo Weidong emphasized that the 80th anniversary is not only a moment of solemn remembrance for the Chinese nation, but also a shared memory of humanity’s struggle against fascism. As the main battlefield in the East, China made tremendous sacrifices and decisive contributions to the Allied victory, he noted.
“Those who have endured the devastation of war cherish peace even more,” said Consul General Luo. He reviewed China’s post-war efforts to uphold the United Nations-centered international system and its commitment to peace and development through global governance, peacekeeping, and cooperation initiatives.
Luo expressed deep gratitude to the international community for its support during the war, particularly to Canadian friends such as Dr. Norman Bethune and Dr. George Hall. During World War II, Dr. Hall founded refugee schools in Chongqing, led mobile medical teams, documented Japanese atrocities at great personal risk, and mobilized support for China’s resistance. After the war, he remained committed to China-Canada friendship as Chair of the Canadian Peace Congress and publisher of the Far Eastern Newsletter, earning recognition as a “Messenger of Peace.”
The event featured screenings of Canada in WWII and a short film on Dr. Hall’s connection with China. His granddaughters, Ms. Meilan Hall and Ms. Valerie Hall, attended the ceremony alongside other family members. Consul General Luo presented them with commemorative certificates and gifts before presiding over a sealing ceremony for the donated archives, which include photos, manuscripts, and personal memorabilia.
An exhibition of selected historical items was also displayed at the venue, drawing close attention from guests. The event concluded with a cultural performance showcasing traditional Chinese music and dance.
Consul General Luo noted that the people of China and Canada, though separated by oceans, have maintained a profound and resilient friendship throughout history. In today’s complex global environment, he stressed, both countries have much to offer and accomplish through cooperation in addressing common challenges.
Quoting Canadian author Margaret Atwood — “True friendship must be cultivated by both sides, like the most precious flower in a garden” — Luo concluded by expressing hope that the China-Canada relationship will continue to thrive like blooming plum blossoms and maple leaves, benefiting not only both peoples but also contributing to global peace and development.
The Open Day event served as both a powerful lesson in history and an inspiring occasion to strengthen people-to-people ties, promote peace, and reinforce the enduring spirit of China-Canada solidarity.
(LJI by Rudy)
