2008-10 Canadian Heritage Cultural Activities in China

Canada has a strong bilateral relationship in sport and culture with China, having signed bilateral agreements with this country in these areas.

Between 2008 and 2010, the Department of Canadian Heritage and its partners will be participating in various major international events taking place in China. These events, such as the Beijing 2008 Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games, and the Shanghai 2010 International Exposition, represent opportunities for our country to further develop its relationship with China and increase the sharing of its diverse cultural experience.

Canadian Heritage also regularly participates in various annual performing arts, film and publishing festivals. Canada's presence at these events promotes, and develop markets for, its cultural expressions and industries. Festivals include:

The Beijing Art Museum of the Imperial City has also hosted the Canadian Museum of Civilization's, "First Peoples of Canada: Masterworks from the Canadian Museum of Civilization" exhibition in Beijing from August 1 to October 8, 2008.

Canada's Presence in China

Canadian Heritage's bilateral engagement with its partners in China is based on two priority themes in order to showcase Canadian cultural experiences and society: diversity and dialogue and creativity and innovation.

These two themes represent the Canadian values and identity that will be showcased through Canada's cultural presence in China and will help promote Canada as a vibrant and welcoming destination for business, study, travel and work. Canadian Heritage will work with its portfolio and government of Canada partners to develop these themes in the context of the implementation of the International Strategic Framework.

Diversity and Dialogue

This theme reflects Canada's diverse Aboriginal, ethnocultural and linguistic communities. These communities represent Canada's strength, as their participation in all aspects of life supports our country's economic, social and cultural success. Arts, culture and sport enable dialogue among communities and help address barriers to participation in society.

Creativity and Innovation

This theme highlights the notion that Canada's cultural expressions are the product of an ongoing dialogue among its diverse communities and reflect contemporary Canadian life. Creative and diverse ideas contribute to a good quality of life for all, drive innovation and support economic success.