Speeches – 2006
The Honourable Beverley J. Oda
Speaking Notes for
The Honourable Beverley J. Oda, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Status of Women
on the occasion of the Signing Ceremony for the Global Centre for Pluralism
Ottawa, Ontario
October 25, 2006
Your Highness,
Prime Minister,
Distinguished guests,
Colleagues.
Good afternoon and welcome.
I am pleased that so many of you could join us on this occasion.
We are honoured to have His Highness the Aga Khan with us today.
His ongoing commitment to promoting peace, security, and democracy around the globe is an inspiration to us all.
As Canadians, we cherish values such as diversity, respect, and freedom.
We know that these values contribute to peace and stability and to building strong and dynamic countries.
We are pleased to be able to share our knowledge and experience on the kind of society, laws, and institutions that foster pluralism and engagement in society.
Today’s announcement affirms Canada’s place in the world as a leading example of how societies can prosper when they embrace diversity.
And now it’s my pleasure to introduce a man who has demonstrated his commitment to the abiding values on which our country is based, to the aspirations we share for other people, and to the actions we are prepared to take to make this a better world.
Ladies and gentlemen, the Right Honourable Stephen Harper, Prime Minister of Canada.
Ismailimail 