When: Thursday, 15 June
Where: The Sticky Wicket Pub, the Strathcona Hotel, 919 Douglas Street
Time: 5 – 7:00 pm (doors open at 5 pm)

In recent decades, Canada and Taiwan have built a close relationship based on a wide range of shared values, not least of which are respect for democracy and human rights. In addition, 50,000 Canadians call Taiwan home and the country has now become Canada’s 12th-largest trading partner and the fifth-largest in Asia, a relationship that generates trade worth billions of dollars every year. Indeed, Taiwanese consumers are increasingly buying Canadian high-quality agri-food exports such as lobster, beef, pork, Icewine, and craft beer. And then there is Roots clothing – a classic Canadian brand – which can be readily seen on the streets of Taipei alongside Herschel backpacks and Lululemon athletic wear. Meanwhile, Canadian technology is present everywhere in Taiwan including the mammoth damper that keeps Taipei 101, one the tallest buildings in the world, steady during typhoons and earthquakes, Bombardier trains that carry thousands of Taipei commuters every day, and Canadian-made helicopters and planes that transport passengers to Taiwan’s remote islands.

To discuss Canada-Taiwan relations we are delighted to welcome Jim Nickel, the Executive Director of the Canadian Trade Office in Taipei to CIC Victoria.  Jim has spent the vast majority of his career overseas and before joining Global Affairs Canada taught English in China. During his foreign service career, he has served in Indonesia, India and Japan and before assuming his current position in late 2022, he was the deputy head of mission in Beijing, where he was one of the key players in the September 2021 release of the two Michaels – Michael Spavor and Michael Kovrig.

To attend the PiP, please email cicvicpip@gmail.com no later than Monday, 12 June. This PiP is open to CIC members only.

– The cost to attend is $20, which will cover a first drink and a round of appetizers. Attendance is limited so please don’t wait to register.
– Confirmation of your registration along with payment instructions will be provided.
– If you are not able to attend after registering, and there is a waiting list, your registration fee will be reimbursed. If we have no waiting list, unfortunately refunds cannot be given.