Celebrating Decades of Korean - Canadian Friendship

Remarks by the Hon. David Kilgour,

Member of Parliament for Edmonton Southeast and Secretary of State (Asia-Pacific) at the Korean National Day Reception and Fashion Show

Museum of Civilization, Gatineau

October 1, 2003

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Your Excellencies, colleagues, Ambassador Chang:

Koreans and Canadians will always be bound by the shared sacrifices made during the Korean War (1950-1953), during which over 27,000 Canadians defended Korea and over 500 gave their lives. New memorials to the Canadian effort unveiled this year in both countries reflect the will of both peoples and governments to ensure that what is often called "the forgotten war" will never again be so.

The bonds between us, however, extend much beyond the war. Humanitarian work by Canadian missionaries in the 19th and 20th centuries cemented the initial pillars of a human bridge that now stands stronger than ever.  The Korean-Canadian community is widely recognized for its vibrance and entrepreneurialism (and now soccer prowess!), while respected throughout the country for the values and energy put into building strong secular and spiritual institutions. 

Ambassador Chang called tonight the "grand finale" in a year of celebrations marking the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations.  It's striking that while many of the dozens of events marking this occasion have been coordinated through our embassies and government departments, their thrust has come directly from literally thousands of Koreans and Canadians. Just as we're about to be treated to the talents of Lee Young Hee, Koreans have been enjoying the works of Calgarian fiddlers, pan-Canadian brass bands, Inuit artists, jazz singers, film animators and producers and many more. 

Among the many values shared between Koreans and Canadians, perhaps the strongest is our joint desire to work towards lasting peace and dignity for all peoples of this shrinking world.  If the goodwill and talent present tonight are any indication, we can do doubt look forward to far greater than 40 more years of deep friendship.

Thank you.