Last Saturday, I had the pleasure and the privilege of participating in the largest Vaisakhi celebration in North America.

Last Saturday, Premier Christy Clark and tens of thousands of people took time to enjoy the annual Vaisakhi parade in Vancouver - and for good reason. This special day celebrates the beginning of the Nanakshahi calendar year, which usually occurs on April 13 and April 14 once every 36 years.

British Columbia is a natural gateway to Asia for trade and investment. Our province's ports are closer than are any in the U.S., and our competitive business environment, diverse and skilled workforce and quality of life makes B.C. an ideal place to do business.

The Province of British Columbia recently began a process of consultation to discuss the wording, delivery and legacy efforts for a formal apology to the Chinese community for historical wrongs.

Our province has created deep historical, cultural and business ties with countries around the world enabling us to create strong trading partnerships and diversify our markets.