Statement

From the Prime Minister's Web Site (http://www.pm.gc.ca/)

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Statement by the Prime Minister of Canada

August 13, 2010
Ottawa, Ontario

Prime Minister Stephen Harper today issued the following statement to mark National Acadian Day on August 15:

"On August 15 we celebrate the remarkable contributions that Acadians have made and continue to make to our country.

"These proud people were among the earliest founders of Canada, first settling along the Saint-Croix River and Port-Royal during the beginning of the 17th century, in modern-day southwestern New Brunswick and western Nova Scotia. In the succeeding years, early Acadian colonists founded other important communities, located throughout eastern Canada.

"Throughout Canadian history, Acadians have established an impressive legacy through important achievements in music, literature, film, sport, politics and academia. A vibrant Acadian community, over 350,000 strong, continues to make valuable contributions to this country in all areas.

"Our Government recognizes Canada's vibrant Acadian community and fully supports their aspirations and activities. In keeping with the objectives of Canada's Economic Action Plan to build and renew community centres and promote cultural activities throughout Canada, our Government is supporting a number of initiatives that promote Acadian culture and history. These initiatives include expanding Carrefour de la mer facilities in Caraquet, New Brunswick, and investing in the Grand Pré National Historic Site, in Grand Pré, Nova Scotia.

"The shared history of our country unites us. I encourage all Canadians to take part in National Acadian Day and celebrate our proud Acadian heritage."

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The Prime Minister's Office - Communications
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Statement

From the Prime Minister's Web Site (http://www.pm.gc.ca/)

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Statement by the Prime Minister of Canada

August 13, 2010
Ottawa, Ontario

Prime Minister Stephen Harper today issued the following statement to mark the 63rd anniversary of Pakistan's independence on August 14:

"I am delighted to extend my warmest greetings to members of the Pakistani-Canadian community as you commemorate the 63rd anniversary of Pakistan's independence. This is a special occasion to reflect on the events that shaped the history of Pakistan and to celebrate the ties between our two countries.

"Our hearts go out to the people of Pakistan in the aftermath of the worst flooding in close to a century. The Government of Canada is working closely with our international humanitarian partners and with Pakistani officials to ensure that Canadian assistance is making a difference in the lives of affected populations. I extend my heartfelt sympathies to Pakistani-Canadians whose relatives or friends have been affected by this terrible disaster.

"Canada is fortunate to have a 300,000-strong dynamic Pakistani community. Pakistani-Canadians continue to make significant contributions to our country's prosperity in all fields of endeavour. The recent appointment of the first Canadian senator of Pakistani origin, the Honourable Salma Ataullahjan, reflects the community's full participation in Canadian public life.

"I value the special relationship between Canada and Pakistan and commend the community's commitment to strengthening these bonds of culture, commerce and friendship. On behalf of the Government of Canada, please accept my best wishes for a memorable commemoration."

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The Prime Minister's Office - Communications
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Statement

From the Prime Minister's Web Site (http://www.pm.gc.ca/)

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Statement by the Prime Minister of Canada

August 13, 2010
Ottawa, Ontario

Prime Minister Stephen Harper issued the following statement today to mark the anniversary of India's independence on August 15:

"On this day, I extend my warmest wishes to all Canadians celebrating the 63rd anniversary of India's independence.

"India is a very different country since it gained its independence on August 15, 1947. It is now well on its way to becoming a global economic superpower - truly a tribute to the country's ingenuity, perseverance and strong leadership.

"Canada and India enjoy a rich and enduring relationship, based on shared experiences as cohesive, pluralistic societies with ethnically, spiritually and linguistically diverse populations. Both nations inherited the centuries-old and proven tradition of the Westminster parliamentary democracy system, and both are free societies that honour freedom of speech, freedom of assembly, freedom of worship and freedom of trade.

"It is an exciting time for Canada-India relations, as both countries are committed to bringing our partnership to new heights. Laureen and I visited India in 2009 and we were overwhelmed by the warmth and hospitality we received. Likewise, Canada welcomed Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and his wife, Gursharan Kaur, following the G-20 Summit in Toronto. During these visits, Canada and India signed a number of agreements in a wide variety of areas, including nuclear cooperation, higher education and economic engagement, which will deepen our bonds further. And there is still much untapped potential to explore. Moving forward on a comprehensive economic partnership agreement with India will be an important next step.

"More than one million Canadians of Indian heritage call Canada home, and they enrich our lives in every important area of national endeavour.

"Once again, my best wishes to Indo-Canadians and to the citizens of India on this important day."

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The Prime Minister's Office - Communications
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