Greetings from Prime Minister Stephen Harper, Minister Jason Kenney and Minister Beverley J. Oda on the 20th anniversary of Ukraine Independence
Statement by the Prime Minister of Canada on the 20th anniversary of Ukraine Independence
Ottawa, August 24, 2011 — Prime Minister Stephen Harper issued the following statement on the 20th anniversary of Ukraine’s independence:
“Twenty years ago, on August 24th, 1991, Ukraine seceded from the USSR and asserted itself as a sovereign state.
“Canada was the first Western nation to recognize Ukraine’s independence and we continue to be a strong proponent of Ukraine’s democratization, given that Canadians and Ukrainians share a steadfast respect for freedom, human rights and the rule of law. Just last year, our Government sponsored more than 300 election observers to travel to Ukraine to monitor voting during the presidential elections.
“More than 1.2 million Canadians trace their ancestry to Ukraine and we are proud this year to mark the 120th anniversary of Ukrainian settlement in Canada. Ukrainian Canadians continue to make significant contributions to Canada’s cultural, political and economic life and have played a major role in the development of the Canada we know today.
“As I expressed during my visit to Kiev last October, Canada will continue to strengthen bilateral ties with Ukraine and help in the building of a democratic, independent and prosperous society.
“On behalf of all Canadians, Laureen and I extend our best wishes to all Ukrainians and Canadians of Ukrainian heritage celebrating this important anniversary.”
http://pm.gc.ca/eng/media.asp?category=3&featureId=6&pageId=49&id=4300
Minister Kenney and Minister Beverley J. Oda issue joint statement recognizing Ukraine Independence Day
Ottawa, August 24, 2011 — The Honourable Jason Kenney, Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism, and the Honourable Beverley J. Oda, Minister of International Cooperation, issued the following statement recognizing today’s celebration of Ukraine Independence Day:
“Today commemorates the 20th anniversary of Ukraine’s declaration of independence in 1991. Canada was the first Western nation to recognize Ukraine’s independence, reflecting the strong ties between our countries.
Canadians and Ukrainians share many of the same fundamental values, including our support for freedom, democracy, human rights and the rule of law. The Government of Canada is working with the Government of Ukraine to help realize the country’s full economic potential in a strengthened democracy.
This year also marks the 120th anniversary of Ukrainian settlement in Canada. Since that time, the Ukrainian community has contributed to our country’s prosperity through their talents, hard work and culture. Today, there are now more than 1.2 million Canadians of Ukrainian descent.
For all Canadians, Ukraine Independence Day provides an excellent opportunity to learn about Ukrainian culture and traditions, and to reflect on the tremendous contributions of the Ukrainian community to Canada’s rich and diverse heritage.”
http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/department/media/statements/2011/2011-08-24.asp
