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Canada Day
June 29, 1999
Ottawa, Ontario
The following is the text of a message from Prime Minister Jean Chrétien on the occasion of Canada Day:
"Today, we celebrate the last Canada Day of the 20th century -- and the millennium. As we gather with family and friends, we can reflect with justifiable pride on 100 incredible years.
We have built a nation that is among the most prosperous and diverse in the world. The founding partnership of the French and English cultures, along with our proud Aboriginal heritage, have been steadily enriched by the contributions of people who have come here from the world over.
As a people, we have come to understand that our country is made up of different communities. Each with a unique identity and unique values that enrich and strengthen us, and which we have fostered through our genius for accommodation and flexibility.
The vibrance of this conviction has been demonstrated by our selection of 1999 as the Year of La Francophonie in Canada, by the recent creation of our newest territory, Nunavut and our joyous celebration of 50 years of the membership of Newfoundland and Labrador in the Canadian family.
We have built a nation where creating opportunity and prosperity have never - in themselves - been enough. Where we have understood that they must be shared, that none of us can move ahead unless we all move ahead together.
On the world stage, Canada has been an abiding force for freedom, justice and peace; in two terrible World Wars, in Korea and in countless troubled spots around the world.
In recent months, Canadians have felt special pride at the bravery which the Canadian Forces have shown in the fight for a just peace settlement in Kosovo, and the generosity and openness we have shown to refugees from that terrible struggle.
Sir Wilfrid Laurier predicted that the 20th century would belong to Canada. His bold dream is the Canadian dream. It is our dream. And it has come true in ways that even he could never have imagined.
Our common obligation, as we look to the new century, is to keep faith with the Canadian dream. A dream that is a guiding inspiration not only for us but for people around the world who look upon Canada's success as a beacon of hope.
Aline joins me in wishing all Canadians the best Canada Day ever!
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PMO Press Office: (613) 957-5555
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