29 February 2008
Toronto, Ontario
Prime Minister Stephen Harper joined with the Prime Minister of the Czech Republic Mirek Topolánek today to mark two important anniversaries in the history of Canada-Czech relations. In his speech to Czech-Canadian community leaders, the Prime Minister noted that 2008 is the 60th anniversary of the communist takeover of Czechoslovakia and the 40th anniversary of the "Prague Spring," when a peaceful attempt by the Czech people to reform the repressive communist regime that ruled their country was thwarted by a Soviet invasion and occupation.
"Canadians felt profound sympathy for the Czechs in 1968," Prime Minister Harper said. "We remembered your suffering under the Nazis during the Second World War, and the courage of your countrymen who fought alongside the Allies for the liberation of Europe. And just as we had done in 1938 and 1948, in 1968 Canada again opened its doors to thousands of Czechs seeking freedom."
The Prime Minister observed that the strong friendship that exists between the Czech and Canadian people today was built on their shared struggle against fascist and communist totalitarianism. "Relations between our two countries have never been stronger or better," said Prime Minister Harper. "We are collaborating on many levels to promote our shared values in a dangerous world."
As examples of the growing relationship between Canada and the Czech Republic, the Prime Minister cited the increasing Czech commitment of troops and equipment to the U.N.-NATO mission in Afghanistan, the recent signing of a Youth Mobility Agreement between the two countries, and Canada's decision to lift the visa requirement on Czechs travelling to this country.
"Let us resolve," Prime Minister Harper concluded, "to continue to work together for freer trade and greater prosperity, for a stronger NATO alliance, and for a world where all people enjoy the freedom, democracy, and human rights enjoyed by the citizens of our two countries today."
