13 October 2012
Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
Prime Minister Stephen Harper today made the following remarks at the 14th Summit of la Francophonie:
"Thank you very much.
"Mr. Secretary General, Abdou Diouf, delegation heads, dear delegates, ladies and gentlemen.
"I would like to begin by thanking our host, the Democratic Republic of Congo, its president and all the people of Kinshasa.
"A major summit like this always requires a great deal of organization, hard work and dedication. You deserve a warm round of applause.
"I would like to underscore the presence of my colleague the Premier of New Brunswick, Mr. David Alward.
"I would also like to underscore the presence of someone here who recently made history.
"For the first time, Quebec is led by a woman.
"Madam Premier, Pauline Marois.
"Dear delegates, it is always a great pleasure to be reunited with the great Francophonie family.
"The last time I saw most of you was in July of this year in the cradle of French Canada, in the city of Québec, for the first French Language World Forum.
"At that time we discussed, among other things, the great cultural diversity that is found among the member countries of the Francophonie.
"And Canada, obviously, is no exception.
"We are very proud of our diversity, both linguistic and cultural.
"That diversity forged our history, marks our day-to-day existence and will long continue to radiate all throughout a strong, united and free Canada.
"The cultural diversity of the Francophonie significantly enriches our discussions.
"Every year, the summit organizers propose themes for us that reflect our reality.
"And this year, as much as when we were in Montreux or in Quebec, the world economy is a fundamental concern for us.
"Even though the Canadian economy is performing relatively well, we are still in a period of great uncertainty internationally.
"We must therefore continue to work together to help our economies, create jobs and ensure long-term prosperity.
"And we must also continue to help one another and to demonstrate solidarity towards those who are in need.
"And I believe I speak for all of us when I say we have a special thought for our friends in the Sahel and in Haiti, who are grappling with ongoing challenges.
"The countries of the Francophonie have ties based on the love of a language and also on many important shared values.
"In that regard, I cannot fail to mention this year the issue of human rights violations.
"Earlier this year, Canada's Francophonie minister, Bernard Valcourt, came to Kinshasa to spell out the position of Canada.
"And that position is very clear.
"All governments, without exception, must guarantee their citizens good governance, the rule of law and respect for human rights.
"Ladies and gentlemen, this is an historic summit.
"For the first time, the great Francophone family is meeting here in Central Africa.
"Seize this opportunity to respect individual freedoms, strengthen democracy and talk of peace.
"And Canada will be at your side in this process so crucial to your region.
"On behalf of all Canadians, I want once again to extend my thanks to the organizers of this international meeting.
"Their vision will help to make this summit another great success.
"Let us spread the beautiful French language throughout the world
"Thank you very much."
