Har Ruz etan Nowrouz, Nowruz etan Pyrouz. Sophie and I wish all Canadians celebrating Nowruz a very happy new year. Nowruz marks the first day of spring and the beginning of the New Year in the Persian Calendar. It is an occasion for friends and family to come together and celebrate over the haft-seen table, to exchange gifts, and enjoy delicious delicacies. It’s also a chance for us to recognize the significant contributions and strong heritage of Canadians of Persian and Central Asian background. Today, we reflect on the values of peace, harmony, and reconciliation which are the heart of this festive day. Nowruz Mubarak and Happy New Persian Year 1395 to all those celebrating the beginning of the New Year.