Prime Minister Stephen Harper issued the following statement today on the 475th anniversary of Jacques Cartier's arrival in Gaspé:
“On July 24, 1534 — 475 years ago — Jacques Cartier first raised a cross in Gaspé on behalf of the King of France.
“Jacques Cartier's arrival in North America marked the beginning of the French presence in the New World. It began 475 years of coexistence between the Aboriginal peoples and the settlers from Europe and elsewhere. We can all be proud that 475 years later, we live in a strong, united, independent and free Canada.
“Today, I'm pleased to join with Canadians in recognizing the 475th anniversary of Jacques Cartier's arrival in Gaspé, an unforgettable part of our cultural heritage.”
