On August 21, 2025, the Consulate General of Afghanistan in Vancouver hosted a formal event titled “Afghanistan: An Evening of Remembrance, Culture, and Reflection.” The event brought together senior government officials, members of parliament, consuls general from various countries, CEOs of organizations, distinguished academics, artists, community leaders, and representatives of Afghan associations based in Vancouver for a meaningful evening of remembrance and celebration of Afghanistan’s rich cultural heritage.
In his remarks, Mr. Ramin Manawi, Consul General of Afghanistan, reflected on the significance of the month of August for the people of Afghanistan. He noted that August 15, 2021 marked a tragic turning point in Afghanistan’s history, when the fall of our institutions on that day meant the loss of basic rights and freedoms for millions of our citizens, especially women and girls. It continues to weigh heavily on our people everywhere. At the same time, August 19 stands as a source of inspiration, reminding us of our nation’s long struggle for dignity, sovereignty, and self-determination. It is a day that remind us to renew our commitment to the values of freedom that remain central to our identity as a people.
Mr. Manawi highlighted Afghanistan’s thousands of years of history as a crossroads of civilizations, with invaluable contributions to world literature, poetry, philosophy, science, and art. He underlined that, despite hardship and displacement, our people continue to demonstrate resilience, creativity, and hope, with culture and identity serving as powerful anchors.
The Consul General emphasized the vital role of the diaspora in preserving language, culture, and values while contributing positively to Canadian society. He expressed deep gratitude to the Government and people of Canada, recalling that Canada has stood firmly with Afghanistan, whether through its humanitarian support, the relocation of vulnerable Afghans, or the sacrifices made alongside us in defense of democracy, peace, human rights, and development. That enduring spirit of friendship, he noted, is remembered with appreciation and remains vital today.
He concluded by reaffirming the commitment of the Consulate General of Afghanistan to continue serving Afghans in Canada, strengthening bonds of cultural understanding and ensuring that Afghanistan heritage remains alive for future generations. He also thanked his colleagues and friends in the community for their tireless assistance in holding the event.
Following the Consul General’s address, several distinguished guests delivered remarks:
- The Honourable Raj Chouhan, Speaker of the BC Legislative Assembly/Parliament
- MLA Susie Chant, Parliamentary Secretary for Seniors’ Services and Long-Term Care and responsible for the Consular Corps of BC
- The Honourable Anne Kang, Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport
- MLA Paul Choi, Parliamentary Secretary for Trade
- Councillor Maita Santiago, Burnaby City Council
The speakers thanked the Consulate for hosting the gathering, describing it as deeply meaningful and inspiring, noting that they learned much about Afghanistan’s history and culture. They spoke of Afghanistan’s rich cultural and historical heritage, the importance of multiculturalism in British Columbia, and the role of cultural exchange in strengthening community bonds. Several speakers also expressed solidarity with people of Afghanistan facing hardship, particularly women and girls and commended the Afghan diaspora for its resilience and contributions to Canadian society.
The speakers noted that despite numerous challenges, the Consulate General has remained active and continued to provide essential services to the people. They commended the dedication and commitment of the consulate’s leadership, emphasizing that these efforts play a vital role in addressing the needs of the community.
The cultural program that followed was a vibrant showcase of Afghanistan’s literary and artistic traditions. Highlights included:
- A group song performance by Afghanistan youth girls’ choir (Osna Hadef, Ghazal Babak, Mahsa Tahzeeb, Safa Hadef, Najwa Hadef, and Marwa Shekib). The song carried a powerful message of peace, justice, and renewal. Its verses reflected love, harmony, and the rebuilding of a homeland free from oppression. With imagery of mountains standing tall, rivers flowing freely, and daughters rising with dignity, the song became a poetic declaration against tyranny and violence, and a vision of an Afghanistan where fairness, freedom, and beauty once again flourish.
- A theatrical scene and short play with a cultural theme was performed by artists Shahwali Nawabi and Zaher Sangar. Rich in meaning and powerful in its message, the performance illustrated how education and knowledge can triumph over ignorance, and how awareness and enlightenment remain essential for building a just and hopeful society.
- Poem recitals by Mr. Abd Fatah Samim and poet Ms. Safia Milad. The poems resonated deeply with the audience. They spoke of our shared origins, interconnected destinies, and the enduring truth that no borders can confine love or silence the human spirit.
- A whirling Sama performance was introduced and performed by Zahra Hashemi. She explained that Sama is a spiritual and meditative dance rooted in the poetry and teachings of Moulana Jalaluddin Balkhi Rumi, symbolizing the soul’s journey toward divine love and unity. Rumi Balkhi was also briefly introduced as a towering world scholar and mystic with deep roots in Afghanistan, whose legacy continues to inspire humanity across cultures.
Musical performances by celebrated Afghanistan musicians (Ustad Majeed Qiyam, Farzana Nawabi, Dr. Hafiz Azhang, Maisam, Matin and Mobin Qiyam) that filled the hall with melodies of resilience and joy. Their songs, rooted in patriotism and the rich traditions of Afghanistan culture, carried messages of humanity and hope.
- A live painting demonstration by visual artist Arezo Safari, in which attendees, including Canadian dignitaries also participated.
Afghanistan heritage displays:
The program also featured the following exhibitions:
1- Cultural Table: A beautifully decorated cultural table was displayed at the event, showcasing historical books and a rich collection of spiritual and allegorical poetry, including Masnavi-ye Ma’navi of Rumi, Shahnameh of Ferdawsi, Divan-e Hafez, Divan-e Bedil, and other books. The table also featured traditional clothing and various cultural artifacts. This special display was prepared and curated by Mrs. Fatemah Najafi, Head of the Mawj Association in Vancouver.
2- Rugs and Jewellery Exhibition: The reception area was adorned with Afghan rugs, carpets, jewelry, and traditional women’s clothing, creating a vivid display of Afghanistan craftsmanship and heritage. The exhibition was organized and presented by Mr. Sharafuddin Katawazi.
During the event, Community leader Mr. Sabur Khudayar, in his remarks, thanked Consul General Manawi for his dedication and service. He noted that despite difficult circumstances, the Consulate has continued to keep its doors open and provide essential services. He thanked the Consulate staff for their services as well.
The evening concluded with warm exchanges among participants, reflecting the resilience and enduring spirit of the people of Afghanistan. The program was ably conducted by the MCs, Ms. Freshta Siddiqui and Ms. Andisha Faqiri.
The Consulate General of Afghanistan expresses its deep appreciation to all distinguished guests, community leaders, and members of the diaspora whose presence made this evening memorable.
