OTTAWA: “Unlike USA or Europe, Canada is today one of the best equipped country to capitalize on the extensive intermingling of populations in the 21st century”, said Tariq Azim Khan, Pakistan’s High Commissioner to Canada.
Addressing the 20th Annual Canada Day dinner hosted by Association of Progressive Muslims of Canada at Toronto, the High Commissioner said that Canada’s strong performance is rooted in effective immigration policies leading to multiculturalism and diversity as a source of pride and inclusion as the core national identity.
The positive impact of multiculturalism is evident among Canadians of all origins and faiths, including Muslims, are proud to be Canadian and they appreciate the same things about Canada that other Canadians do, he added.
He urged Canadian Muslims and especially of Pakistani origin to make concerted efforts to dispel the fear of the unknown in the Canadian society about Muslims in general and Pakistan in particular. To achieve that they need to interact with the Canadians at all levels to show them the real culture, customs and traditions etc.
The High Commission was awarded with the annual award 2018, by Mr. Mobeen Khaja President of the Association of Progressive Muslims, in recognition of his outstanding services as Minister, Senator and High Commissioner of Pakistan and on his passion to present Pakistan’s rich culture and history for better understanding by the Canadians.
Besides a large gathering of Muslims and leaders of other faith groups the dinner was also attended by diplomats and Canadian officials based in Toronto.
Published in Daily Times, July 8th 2018.
