FORGED AT PASSCHENDAELE – BUILDING PARTNERSHIPS FOR THE FUTURE
A renewed connection between Canada and Belgium
The link between Canada and Belgium was forged at Passchendaele, carried forward in memory and renewed yesterday, November 9th (2026), as Saugeen Shores (ON) and Zonnebeke, Belgium, formally sign their Sister City agreement.
The partnership recognizes a shared history rooted in the sacrifices of Canadian soldiers during the Battle of Passchendaele in 1917. It also reflects Canada’s enduring connection to Flanders, including through Lieutenant-Colonel John McCrae, whose poem ‘In Flanders Fields’ became one of the most enduring symbols of remembrance.
Saugeen Shores Deaths in Belgium in WWI
Arthur Minion Christian Passchendaele 10?24/17
Arthur Knechtel Passchendaele 10/19/17
Francis Edward Tuckfield Ypres 07/17/16
Oscar Vernon Ypres 07/17/16
John Rowand Geddes Poperinghe 08/11/17
Roy Reid Thompson Vichte 11/03/18
More than a commemorative gesture, the agreement creates an opportunity to turn this shared history into lasting connections, new opportunities and practical cooperation between communities in two countries.
A key focus will be building connections in commerce and education. By bringing together businesses, chambers of commerce, schools, museums, tourism organizations and community groups, the partnership can open doors to trade and investment opportunities, business relationships, student exchanges, shared learning and cultural experiences. These connections will help both communities better understand each other’s strengths, opportunities, history and way of life.
Trusted allies forged in battle must remain partners in peace.
While visiting our ‘sister’ community Zonnebeke, it was my great honour to participate in the Last Post Ceremony at the Menin Gate in Ypres.
The timing is particularly significant as Canada works to diversify its international relationships and strengthen cooperation with trusted European partners, including through closer ties with the European Union. This partnership demonstrates that international relationships are not built by governments alone, but also through the initiative of communities, institutions, businesses and people who recognize shared values and common interests.
As the communities look toward the 110th anniversary of the Battle of Passchendaele in 2027, this relationship provides a foundation to bring Canadians and Belgians together, engage future generations and ensure the sacrifices made more than a century ago remain relevant.
The history that connects Saugeen Shores and Zonnebeke is not simply something to remember. It is a responsibility to carry forward.
Forged at Passchendaele. Remembered by our countries. Built for the future.
