Prime Minister Stephen Harper issues greeting to mark the Chinese New Year

Prime Minister Stephen Harper issued the following greeting to all Chinese Canadians celebrating the New Year:

“Ni hao,

I am pleased to extend my warmest personal greetings to members of the Chinese community in Canada as you celebrate the Chinese New Year.

The Year of the Rat will be ushered in with celebrations across the country. In fact, the Chinese community is such an integral part of the Canadian cultural landscape that the new year is proudly celebrated with major public festivities in cities nationwide.

Chinese Canadians have a prominent place in our nation’s history and cultural heritage. From the construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway, to the development of vibrant Chinese Canadian business communities in all our major cities, Canada has been immeasurably enriched by the contributions of Chinese Canadians.

On behalf of the Government of Canada, please accept my best wishes for a happy, healthy and prosperous Year of the Rat!

Gung hei fat choi.”