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In the first visit by a Canadian Prime Minister to China back in 1973, Pierre Trudeau brought 2 limited edition souvenir medals commemorating Dr. Norman Bethune, as a gift for Chairman Mao and Premier Zhou Enlai.

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang (R) shakes hands with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in Beijing, capital of China, Aug. 30, 2016. [Photo: gov.cn]

43 years later, his son, Justin becomes Prime Minister of Canada. He somehow manages to find another of the medals commissioned by his father, and presents it to Premier Li Keqiang during their meeting on August 30 in Beijing.

Canadian born Dr. Norman Bethune sacrificed his life working as a battlefield surgeon in China from 1938 to 1939.

"The medal is a symbol of the lasting friendship between China and Canada. Through this special way, I hope the relations between our two countries will enter a new era," said Justin Trudeau. For his part, Premier Li Keqiang said, "China and Canada have witnessed a long period of friendship which is also deeply cherished by the two peoples." Li added that he hoped to see further progress in relations, with Trudeau's visit providing the impetus.

Trudeau added that strengthening the friendship and potential of the relationship between the two will open a new era in China's engagement with the rest of the world.

This is the first official visit by Justin Trudeau to China since taking office back in November 2015. After his stay in Beijing, Trudeau will fly to Hangzhou to attend the G20 summit.