Canada Day 2025 - National day message from the Consul General of Canada

Today, we join fellow Canadians and friends from Hong Kong and Macao to celebrate Canada Day.

On July 1, 158 years ago, Canada was born and later became a country that upholds international law, respects human rights and freedoms, and values diversity.

As we celebrate Canada’s proud history, we recognize Canada’s First Nations, Inuit and Métis.  We also recognize the many communities, cultures and people that have come together to make up Canada. This combination of languages, identities, cultures, skills and values is what makes Canada a strong country.

On Canada Day, and everyday, it is important to celebrate the diversity of our communities.  This commitment is underpinned by our values in upholding universal human rights. We treat everyone with respect and dignity, and we protect freedom of expression and the right of assembly. Diversity is Canada’s strength, and we will continue to include and learn from diverse voices on all issues. We share many of these values with Hong Kongers.   

The ties between Canada and Hong Kong are deep rooted, date back to World War II and even earlier, and reflect longstanding commercial, political and people-to-people ties. Hong Kong has one of the largest Canadian communities abroad – there are an estimated 300,000 or more of us here.

This community, along with the hundreds of thousands of Canadians of Hong Kong descent living in Canada, plays an important role in building vibrant bilateral relations. Our deep relationships, families, educational links and values continue to bond us together.  

To celebrate together, join the Canadian Club in Hong Kong’s Great Canadian Canada Day Brunch on July 1. This event unites Canadians to enjoy each other’s company and some favourites from back home – poutine, Caesars, Nanaimo bars, maple syrup AND maple butter! RSVP: CanadianClubHK@gmail.com or Facebook “Canadian Club Hong Kong”.

To stay updated on upcoming activities, follow the Consulate on Facebook at CanadainHKandMacao in English, or CanadaaHKetMacao in French.

Happy Canada Day! Bonne Fete du Canada ! 加拿大國慶日快樂!  

Charles E. Reeves
Consul General