´Most famous foreigner´ gets new role

Mark Rowswell, the Canadian xiangsheng (a popular form of comic dialogue) performer, now has a new role - Canada's commissioner general for Expo 2010.

Lawrence Cannon, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Canada, in Shanghai today announced the appointment of Rowswell, who is better known under his stage name "Dashan" in China. Rowswell's duties will run from May to November 2010.

Lawrence Cannon, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Canada, announces the appointment  of Mark Rowswell as Canada's commissioner general for Expo 2010.

Calling Rowswell an "international citizen" and a cultural ambassador committed to promoting friendship among different nations, Cannon said Canada believes Rowswell "would encourage many people to visit the Canada Pavilion."

Rowswell has been in China for around 21 years and is more than fluent in Chinese. Having been involved in a range of activities from hosting television programs and dramatic acting to publishing and language education, he is now considered a cultural ambassador between China and the West as well as the "most famous foreigner in China."

Rowswell has won the Order of Canada, Canada's highest civilian honor for his contributions in bridging friendship between China and the West. He was also the first foreigner selected as one of 10 "Outstanding Youth of Beijing", one of the highest honors granted by the Beijing authorities in 2004. Last year, he served as the Canadian attache for the Beijing Olympics.

Rowswell said he views the position of commissioner general as a "lifetime opportunity" and a "highlight" of his career.

Mark Rowswell, Canada's commissioner general for Expo 2010

"Expo 2010 gives people an opportunity to share experience in urbanization and Canada is committed to creating one of the best five to six pavilions," he told reporters.

He said Cirque du Soleil has developed the design for the Canada Pavilion, noting the exhibition would be fantastic as Cirque du Soleil is the "best circus in Canada."

Cirque du Soleil will also create special performances, organize cultural programs and develop strategic corporate alliances for the pavilion.