Canada's National Day 2025 in Hanoi - Where cuisine, diplomacy, and friendship converge.

Affirming the significance of a strategic partnership.

On June 17th in Hanoi, the Canadian Embassy in Vietnam solemnly celebrated the 158th anniversary of Canada's National Day (July 1st, 1867 – July 1st, 2025). The event was not only an opportunity for the Canadian community in Vietnam to reflect on the proud history and development of Canada, but also a chance to further strengthen the friendly and comprehensive cooperation between Canada and Vietnam – two countries that are increasingly drawing closer in many areas, from politics and economics to culture.

The celebration was not only an occasion to honor the past but also to open up expectations for the future. Building on a solid foundation of bilateral relations and mutual trust, Canada and Vietnam are entering a new chapter of deeper, more comprehensive, and sustainable partnership. The event took place in a solemn yet warm atmosphere, leaving a positive impression on the guests – not just as a national celebration, but as a vivid testament to the friendship and commitment to cooperation between two countries separated by half the globe, yet close in vision, values, and belief in the future.

Celebrating culinary diplomacy - Meet Chef Rosalyn Ediger

The ceremony was attended by many distinguished guests, including representatives from diplomatic agencies, international organizations, businesses, and the Canadian community living and working in Vietnam. On the Vietnamese side, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Ngo Le Van attended and delivered a congratulatory speech on this momentous occasion.

A special highlight of the event was the presence of guest Chef Rosalyn Ediger, who brought a rich Canadian culinary identity to the festival. As a culinary ambassador, Chef Rosalyn and her team presented a special menu celebrating the diversity of Canadian cuisine, from renowned Alberta beef to sweet desserts flavored with maple syrup.

“Cuisine has the power to unite people, build and strengthen friendships between nations. Celebrating culinary diplomacy is a practical way to promote mutual understanding and respect,” shared Chef Rosalyn.

Message from the Canadian Ambassador to Vietnam - Mr. Shawn Steil

Speaking at the event, Ambassador Shawn Steil emphasized the profound significance of Canada Day, noting that it is not merely a celebratory occasion but also a moment for Canadians to reflect on the core values ​​that have shaped their national identity: tolerance, fairness, respect for the law, and a spirit of community.

“National Day is an opportunity for us to remember what brings us together, and what makes us proud to be Canadian,” Steil shared. He also affirmed that Canada has always been a reliable international partner – straightforward, honest, committed, and compliant with international law.

Another important aspect of his speech was his optimistic recognition of Vietnam's remarkable progress. "I am delighted to witness Vietnam's impressive era of development. This is the right time to take bilateral relations between the two countries to a new level," Ambassador Steil shared.

According to him, during his three years as Ambassador to Vietnam, he witnessed the country's remarkable development – ​​not only internally but also in how Vietnam proactively, confidently, and responsibly participates in regional and global processes. “This is a great motivation for Canada to continue strengthening and expanding its cooperative relationship with Vietnam. This relationship is not only strategic at the government level but is also nurtured by the connection between the people of the two countries,” he affirmed.

A shared vision for a just and sustainable world.

On behalf of the Government and people of Vietnam, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Ngo Le Van extended warm congratulations to Canada on its National Day. He highly appreciated Canada's achievements in recent years, especially the successful organization of the general election and its role as host of the G7 Summit in 2025.

“We acknowledge and appreciate Canada’s role on the international stage – a nation consistently upholding the values ​​of multilateralism, sustainable development, respect for international law, and a commitment to a peaceful and just world,” the Deputy Minister stated. He also emphasized that the outstanding results in bilateral cooperation are clear evidence of the trust and shared vision between the two countries.

The younger generation - a bridge connecting the future.

The relationship between Canada and Vietnam is fostered not only through official diplomacy but also sustainably nurtured through people-to-people exchanges, educational and cultural cooperation, and community development. Currently, more than 21,000 Vietnamese students are studying in Canada – a number that demonstrates trust, commitment, and a solid foundation for long-term cooperation between the two countries.

Text and photos: Hoang Anh