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Prime Minister Stephen Harper issued the following statement today at the 14th Summit of la Francophone:
“Good morning everybody.
“It was a pleasure for me to represent Canada at the 14th Summit of la Francophone.
“We discussed important topics concerning the future and influence of our common language.
“This summit constantly reminds us of the diversity of the French heritage and the richness of the French language that various peoples speak in their own way all over the world.
“I would also point out that Canada’s commitment to the cause of French was clearly expressed last summer in Quebec City at the very first Forum mondial de la langue française.
“Throughout this meeting, we’ve been able to discuss many important topics, such as development and economic growth, especially within the Francophonie.
“I’ve also had the occasion to raise issues of human rights with members of the Congolese civil society.
“Canada will continue to express our deep concerns with the situation here in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
“We also announced new measures to combat sexual violence in the eastern part of this country, and we in Canada will continue to express our deep concern about the situation.
“Over the last few days, I had productive meetings with President Hollande as well as meetings with my colleagues from Benin and Lebanon for the purpose of discussing many international issues.
“Finally, I have the pleasure of announcing today a brand new investment in collaboration with the World Bank that will help developing countries manage their natural resources in a transparent way.
“Thank you very much.”
