July 1 ,2002
Ottawa, Ontario

My friends, there is nothing like Canada Day.

To stir our spirit. To call forth our joy in our many blessings. Our pride at being part of the exceptional story of an exceptional nation. A story that speaks of challenges met and promises kept.

Today, we celebrate the steps we have taken to meet the challenge, put to us by the Fathers of Confederation to build a new kind of nation. One of many faiths, races and creeds in which ancient grievances are left behind out of a common desire for harmony, and to fulfil the promise of a brighter, more prosperous future for all.

But it has also been a year of momentous challenges, which Canadians have met in stride, with confidence and resolve. One in which our shared values of freedom, tolerance, sharing and compassion, as always, have been a sure and steady guide to our actions and our choices.

In a year of global uncertainty, the steps we have taken, as a people, to restore vitality and dynamism to our economy have been rewarded with continued growth and expanded opportunity.

And we stood shoulder to shoulder with all civilized nations in defence of freedom as part of the international campaign against terrorism. A campaign in which four fine young Canadians lost their lives: Sergeant Marc Léger, Corporal Ainsworth Dyer, Private Richard Green, and Private Nathan Smith. As a people, we grieved with their families. As a nation, we will honour their memory and their sacrifice forever.

Just a few days ago, it was my great privilege, not only to welcome the G8 to Kananaskis, but, above all, to demonstrate Canadian leadership in ensuring that the benefits of globalization are truly global. As we endorsed a concrete Africa Action Plan whose goal is to help reverse generations of social and economic decline on that troubled continent.

As we celebrate a year of tremendous achievement, and look to the future, our shared goal must be to harness our renewed sense of confidence, optimism and pride in the cause of addressing the challenges that lie between us and the full realization of our promise as a nation.

My fellow Canadians, above everything, Canada Day is your day. As I look upon this joyful crowd, I can sense that as a nation the wind is in our sails.

But you did not come here to listen to me. You came to have a good time. And the time has come for me to get out of the way. And for you to get on with the best party. On the best day of the year. In the best country in the world.

Happy Canada Day!

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