Canada celebrates its Pavilion Day today, which is also the country's National Day.
Canada was one of the first countries that established diplomatic ties with China, and the relationship between the two countries is significant, Michaelle Jean, Governor-General of Canada, said at this morning's ceremony in the Expo Center.
Canada attaches great importance to the cooperation and exchange between the two countries and the Expo 2010 provides the best platform to explore the issue of how to create a better city with the aim of making better life, she said.
Shanghai Party Secretary Yu Zhengsheng said Expo is a grand event gathering the fruits of civilizations. The splendid exhibition and innovative program of Canada offers a glimpse of Canadians' wisdom and innovative spirit as well as their pursuit of harmony between people and nature.
Five troupes from Canada will perform in an evening celebration in the Expo Center.
During the day, there will be face-painting, a bit of hockey and cultural shows in the pavilion in Zone C.
The pavilion is themed "The Living City: Inclusive, Sustainable, Creative."
The C-shaped structure is the hub of events and activities aimed to create a brand-new impression of Canada as a vibrant and trendy place, much more than a magnificent country with vast tracts of snow and forest.
Cirque du Soleil, regarded as Canada's national treasure, is featured. The troupe made its debut on the Chinese mainland last summer, bringing the "Quidam" show to Shanghai.
A highlight of the pavilion is a virtual waterfall that changes scenes of Canada when it is touched. It also shows scenes of cities of the future, as imagined by Canadian children.
