- British Columbia celebrated its first official Nepal Heritage Day in Surrey, attended by Premier David Eby and various government officials.
- Ambassador Bharat Raj Paudyal hailed the recognition as a milestone for strengthening cultural and diplomatic ties between Nepal and Canada.
- High-level meetings focused on expanding bilateral cooperation in key areas including trade, tourism, investment, technology transfer, and education.
- The event featured traditional performances, highlighting the Nepali diaspora's commitment to preserving their cultural identity and heritage abroad.
Community event marks milestone for Nepali diaspora; leaders highlight growing Nepal–Canada ties
SURREY, British Columbia, Canada: Nepal Heritage Day was celebrated in Surrey with wide participation from government officials, diplomats, and members of the Nepali community, marking the first observance of the day since its official recognition by the Government of British Columbia.
The event was organized by the Nepal Cultural Society of British Columbia in collaboration with various Nepali community organizations. It brought together a broad cross-section of attendees, including British Columbia Premier David Eby, provincial ministers, Members of the Legislative Assembly, local government representatives, and community leaders.
Nepali envoy highlights significance of recognition
Nepal’s Ambassador to Canada, Bharat Raj Paudyal, attended the program as the special guest and addressed the gathering. He described the official recognition of Nepal Heritage Day as an important milestone for the Nepali diaspora in British Columbia and a reflection of the strengthening cultural and diplomatic relations between Nepal and Canada.
He also appreciated the efforts of Nepali community organizations in preserving and promoting Nepal’s cultural identity abroad through festivals, language, traditions, and community engagement.
High-level meetings held on sidelines
On the sidelines of the celebration, Ambassador Paudyal held separate meetings with British Columbia Premier David Eby, Legislative Assembly Speaker Raj Chouhan, Jobs and Economic Growth Minister Ravi Kahlon, and Pacific Regional Trade Director Cameron Jelinski.
Focus on expanding bilateral cooperation
The meetings focused on strengthening cooperation between Nepal and British Columbia in key areas, including trade, tourism, investment, technology transfer, education, and people-to-people exchanges.
Both sides expressed interest in enhancing institutional and community-level linkages, particularly by promoting collaboration between Nepali entrepreneurs, educational institutions, and Canadian partners.
Cultural performances highlight Nepali heritage
The celebration also featured cultural performances showcasing traditional Nepali music and dance, reflecting the community’s efforts to preserve its heritage while contributing to Canada’s multicultural society.
The event concluded on a positive note, underscoring the growing visibility of the Nepali diaspora in Canada and the expanding scope of Nepal–Canada relations.
