Mr. Ramin Manawi, Consul General of Afghanistan in Vancouver, together with Consulate colleagues, participated in the official opening of the Cultural Exhibition and Eid Bazaar at Royal Palace Banquet Hall on March 16, 2026. The event brought together Mike Hurley, Mayor of Burnaby, City Councillors (Maita Santiago, James Wang and Daniel Tetrault) and a large gathering of Afghan-Canadians and community partners.
In his remarks, the Consul General expressed appreciation to the organizers and highlighted the importance of such initiatives in showcasing Afghanistan’s rich cultural heritage. He noted that the bazaar provided an opportunity for the broader public to experience Afghanistan traditions through clothing and jewellery, henna artistry, Afghan cuisine, art, handicrafts, dried fruits, and the offerings of local vendors and small businesses. He also extended Ramadan greetings and underscored the significance of this period, as Eid and Nowruz fall close together this year, offering a meaningful time of reflection, renewal, and unity. The Consul General further emphasized the valuable contributions of the diaspora across Canadian society, including in business, education, public service, and the arts.
Mrs. Farzana Nawabi introduced the program and speakers, followed by Ms. Freshta Azizi (organizer of the Eid Exhibition and Bazaar), who welcomed guests, presented the exhibition, and acknowledged the contributions of partners and volunteers.
Mayor Hurley also addressed the audience, commending the Afghan community for its vibrant cultural presence and praising the quality of the displays. He highlighted the importance of such events in fostering cross-cultural understanding, inclusion, and community engagement.
Following the remarks, a ribbon-cutting ceremony formally opened the bazaar. Throughout the day, thousands of visitors attended the event, exploring the exhibition and stalls, supporting local businesses, and experiencing Afghanistan culture firsthand.
The Consulate General of Afghanistan in Vancouver congratulates the organizers and volunteers for hosting a successful and well-attended event that brought communities together and celebrated Afghanistan’s rich cultural heritage.
