Statement from Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of National Defence Jean Rioux on the International Day of La Francophonie
Statements
March 20, 2017 – Ottawa – National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces
The Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of National Defence, Jean Rioux, today issued the following statement on the International Day of La Francophonie:
“The International Day of La Francophonie is a time for the Canadian Armed Forces and the Department of National Defence to celebrate the French language and culture in our institution. Not only is Canada’s identity rooted in this linguistic diversity, French culture is also part of our country’s military history.
“The Defence Team celebrates and benefits from this diversity: our linguistic duality has made Canada an important partner and contributor on operations throughout the world and French-designated units have made notable contributions and sacrifices at home and overseas.
“We join the 274 million Francophones around the world in celebrating this day and to recognize its important significance in Canada as we celebrate Confederation’s 150th anniversary. French culture has been a part of Canada since the beginning so it is fitting that we continue to recognize and celebrate its presence in the Canada we know.
“On behalf of the Defence Team, I encourage you to celebrate our linguistic duality and culture on this International Day of La Francophonie.”
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