Statement

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

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Statement by the Prime Minister of Canada on the 64^th anniversary of India's independence

August 14, 2011
Ottawa, Ontario

Prime Minister Stephen Harper issued the following statement on the 64^th anniversary of India's independence on August 15^th:

"On behalf of all Canadians, I would like to extend my warmest wishes to all those celebrating the 64^th anniversary of India's independence.

"Through hard work, innovation and determination, the people of India have built one of the world's leading economies since the country gained independence in 1947.

"Canada values its friendship with India tremendously and we share many of the same values. For instance, both our countries have adopted the same Westminster systems of parliamentary democracy, which we draw upon to ensure the prosperity of communities that are ethnically, spiritually and linguistically diverse.

"Our mutually beneficial friendship becomes ever more important as we move forward in a globally competitive economy. That is why last November, Prime Minister Singh and I launched trade negotiations which will open new markets and bring more opportunity to Canadian and Indian businesses. Earlier this year, I also participated in the launch of the Year of India in Canada 2011, to celebrate the contributions of Indio-Canadians and highlight India's culture and traditions within Canada.

"Thanks to the one million Canadians of Indian heritage, who continue to help Canada thrive, our country's ties with India deepen by the day.

"I wish to offer my sincere congratulations to all those honouring this important anniversary."

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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 marks the 64^th anniversary of Pakistan's independence

August 14, 2011
Ottawa, Ontario

Prime Minister Stephen Harper today issued the following statement to mark the 64^th anniversary of Pakistan's independence:

"On behalf of Canadians, I am pleased to extend my very best wishes and sincere congratulations to all those celebrating the 64^th anniversary of Pakistan's independence.

"Our country is home to a vibrant, 300,000-member strong community of Canadians of Pakistani heritage, which plays a meaningful role in our diverse cultural landscape and contributes to Canada's prosperity in all fields of endeavour.

"On this special day, we reflect on the events and accomplishments that have shaped the history of Pakistan and we celebrate the ties between our two countries.

"I would also like to take this opportunity to recall the catastrophic floods that caused massive devastation in Pakistan last year. Our Government's humanitarian assistance and the contributions of thousands of individual Canadians helped meet the urgent needs of millions of people affected by the floods. While Pakistan continues to feel the impact of the 2010 monsoon floods and faces wide-ranging challenges, I commend the Pakistani people for their dignified resilience in the face of adversity.

"Canada values its relationship with Pakistan and we stand by Pakistanis as they continue to work towards building a strong, stable and secure nation. Once again, I wish you the best as you commemorate this important day."

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The Prime Minister's Office - Communications
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