Mme Gu Langlin, wife of the Chinese Ambassador, marked the International Women's Day 2009 by hosting a reception and film show at the Chinese Embassy on March 3rd.

Mme Gu was joined by a wide range of guests including Senator Lillian Eva Dyck, Senator Vivienne Poy, Senator Mac Harb, Mr. Daryl Kramp M.P., lady ambassadors in Ottawa and other VIPs from the Canadian Parliament, government, universities and schools, business community, cultural sector, overseas Chinese societies, diplomatic missions and media.

 

Mme Gu made warm remarks to the guests. She said that gender equality has always been a pillar of the Chinese Government's national policy for development. The past 30 years since the reform and opening up have witnessed huge steps forward in the empowerment of women. Chinese women are becoming more politically engaged, financially independent, better educated and widely respected. Mme Gu also expressed appreciation for the women's associations in Ottawa that provide women with wonderful networking and entertainment opportunities.

 

The reception was highlighted by the performances of the Women's Club of the Chinese Embassy, including singing, dancing and classic Chinese music, followed by a short film on the Spring Festival (Chinese New Year).