The Leader of the Official Opposition and Interim Leader of the Conservative Party of Canada, Rona Ambrose, issued the following statement to mark the celebration of the Republic of Armenia’s Independence Day:
“On behalf of the Conservative Party of Canada, I would like to wish Armenians here in Canada and around the world a very happy Independence Day.
“Twenty five years ago, Armenian voters voted in favour of full independence from the Soviet Union after almost seven decades of Communist rule.
“Canada and Armenia share an important relationship. Under the previous Conservative government, Canada supported Armenia’s candidacy to become an associate member of l’Organisation internationale de la Francophonie at the Quebec Summit in 2008. We have also signed a number of bilateral trade agreements.
“Furthermore, I am proud that in 2006, the Government of Canada, under the leadership of Conservative Prime Minister Stephen Harper, recognized the events of 1915 as genocide.
“Canada is home to a hardworking Armenian community. I hope all Canadians take this opportunity to recognize the immense contributions of Armenian Canadians in shaping our country.
“Once again, I would like to extend my best wishes to all those celebrating a happy Independence Day!”
