(Clearwisdom.net) Rahim Jaffer, Chair of the National Conservative Caucus and Member of Parliament for Edmonton-Strathcona sent New Year greetings to New Tang Dynasty TV (NTDTV) audiences on behalf of the Canadian Government on December 11, 2007. He also wished success to NTDTV's Global Chinese New Year Spectacular. Mr. Jaffer said in an interview that the performance of Divine Performing Arts showcases China's long history and is worth commending.

Mr. Jaffer stated in his greeting, "NTDTV and Divine Performing Arts troupe must be commended I think for bringing the beauty and rich heritage of traditional Chinese culture that shaped China's 5000 years of history."

To the viewers of NTDTV, Mr. Jaffer said, "I hope you enjoy the pageantry and wonder of Chinese music, dance and life of all the myths and legends. Divine beauty performed by acclaimed artists and a professional cast of over one hundred dancers, musicians and vocalists as part of the world tour in over 60 cities, it's quite a production. I extend my thanks to hundreds of individuals who give their time and energies just to serve the best interests of their communities and to add to Canada's rich cultural diversity and identities."

He said in an interview, "I think it's unfortunate when we see some countries around the world trying to hide or change some of the history or cultural identities of different groups."

"In Canada, we promote that type of traditional history among so many different communities. We allow that to be expressed. We think it is important that this be the standard around the world. In our work as government, we encourage those countries that might not hold to those values or standards to do the same thing that we do because I think it is important." "That's the same for China or any other country where there might be human rights abuses or other changes of that sort of culture and heritage. ...we encourage other countries to change if they don't do that."

Jaffer extended his congratulations to Divine Performing Arts, because "What they are trying to do is highlighting the rich history that is such an important part of China." He also sent greetings on behalf of the Canadian government to the NTDTV audiences: "On behalf of our whole government, I would like to wish you a very Merry Christmas, Happy New Year and all the best in 2008."