20 March 2012
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister made the following statement today to mark the Journée internationale de la Francophonie:
"I am very pleased today to be celebrating the Journée internationale de la Francophonie with all Francophones in Canada and around the world.
"This anniversary – which marks the signing, in 1970, of the treaty that gave rise to the establishment of the International Organisation of La Francophonie (OIF) – gives us the opportunity to celebrate our attachment to the French language and Francophone culture, and our solidarity and cooperation with the 74 states and governments of La Francophonie.
"French is much more than just a language; in addition to being one of our official languages, spoken by more than 9.5 million of our fellow citizens, French is the founding language of our country and an indispensable component of our history and heritage.
"Our government is proud of Canada's bilingualism and cultural diversity – which is why we are committed to promoting French at home and abroad as well as participating actively in the creation and development of a large number of institutions that support the vitality of the French language.
"The theme of this year's celebrations, ‘French is an opportunity,’ is very meaningful, because the French language truly provides an opportunity to break down barriers and in particular, to experience culture, literature and intellectual networks from around the world.
"I also note that Canada will again be celebrating its Francophone heritage at the Forum mondial de la langue française, which will take place in Quebec City from July 2 to 6, 2012.
"On this happy occasion, I extend sincere greetings to everyone celebrating the Journée internationale de la Francophonie today."
