Ottawa, Ontario. Prime Minister Stephen Harper today announced that 2013 has been designated as the Year of Korea in Canada, which aims to highlight Korea's culture, traditions and diversity, and celebrate the contributions of the Korean community to Canadian society. The Prime Minister was joined by Kim Hwang-sik, Prime Minister of the Republic of Korea.
"Canada and Korea enjoy excellent relations based on 50 years of diplomatic engagement, close personal ties and an important commercial relationship," said the Prime Minister. "It is a privilege to launch the Year of Korea in Canada which will showcase Korea's remarkable culture and traditions and highlight the vibrant relationship our two countries enjoy."
The Year of Korea in Canada will feature a number of cultural and artistic events across the country. Events in Korea will also be organized to commemorate the 60th Anniversary of the Korean War Armistice, including Canada's contributions to help defend the country's freedom.
Canada and Korea's strong relationship is underpinned by a rapidly growing trade relations that reached nearly $11.7 billion in 2011, close cooperation in international fora on democratic and human rights issues, and strong people-to-people ties, including through immigration, educational programs and tourism.
