On January 23, 2025, CCBC’s Quebec Chapter hosted an exclusive Lunar New Year cocktail reception at the National Bank of Canada head office in Montreal, bringing together nearly 120 members and distinguished guests to celebrate the new year and gain insights on the evolving Canada-China economic landscape.

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A highlight of the evening was a keynote address by the Right Honourable Jean Chrétien, former Prime Minister of Canada. Mr. Chrétien shared personal reflections on the Canada-China relationship, recalling his leadership of a Canadian business delegation to China in 1994 and his interactions with the late Chinese president JIANG Zemin. He praised CCBC’s role in fostering strong bilateral ties, noting the complementary strengths of China’s large population and Canada’s abundant resources.

The evening also featured remarks from Vincent Joli-Coeur, Chairman, Asia Pacific, National Bank of Canada, and Vice-Chairman, Financial Markets, and the Honourable Martin Cauchon, Vice-Chair of the CCBC Board of Directors and Special Advisor at DS Lawyers Canada. They discussed key Canada-China business success stories, including the global growth of Canada Goose and lululemon, Quebec’s involvement in the China International Import Expo (CIIE), and Air Canada’s resumed flights to China. Representing DS Lawyers Canada and National Bank of Canada, they reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening collaboration between Quebec, Canada, and China, our second largest trade partner.

Mr. DAI Yuming, Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Montreal, emphasized the Canada-China relationship remains a priority in China’s partnerships with Western countries. He recognized the contributions of attendees in strengthening these ties and highlighted the significant potential for mutual benefit and win-win cooperation.

The event marked a significant leadership transition for CCBC, with attendees bidding farewell to Sarah Kutulakos after nearly 18 years as Executive Director and COO, and welcoming her successor, Bijan Ahmadi. Reflecting on her tenure, Ms. Kutulakos shared key achievements in Canada-China relations, such as high-level trade missions, ministerial visits, and pivotal agreements that shaped bilateral ties. Strong economic ties with China are essential for Canada’s continued growth in an increasingly competitive global market. Mr. Ahmadi noted the important role of trade in Canada’s economy, pointing out that approximately two-thirds of the country’s GDP is connected to trade. Therefore, fostering a productive and pragmatic relationship with China, along with strengthening economic and trade activities between the two countries, supports Canada’s national interests and contributes to its prosperity.

CCBC extends its gratitude to Co-Sponsors DS Avocats and National Bank of Canada for their support of the Lunar New Year Reception.