Statement by The Prime Minister Of CANADA

Date: June 19, 2009

For immediate release

Statement by The Prime Minister OF CANADA

Prime Minister Stephen Harper issued the following statement today on the House of Commons passing a motion to grant Honorary Canadian Citizenship to His Highness the Aga Khan:

“Today, on the advice of our Government, the House of Commons voted to bestow Honorary Canadian Citizenship upon His Highness the Aga Khan.

“This is recognition of the Aga Khan’s leadership as a champion of development, pluralism and tolerance around the world and of his remarkable leadership as Imam of the worldwide Ismaili community.

“Our Government appreciates the work of the Aga Khan Development Network to improve the quality of life of people in many of the world’s most impoverished nations. In particular, we are grateful for the immense contribution the Aga Khan Development Network is making in Afghanistan, as we work together to help the people of that country build a better future.

“Closer to home, our Government is proud to partner with the Aga Khan to build the Global Centre for Pluralism in Ottawa. This centre will promote ethnic, cultural and religious exchange and education – values that we hold dear as Canadians. I look forward to welcoming the Aga Khan back to Canada as an Honorary Citizen, and continuing to work closely with him to improve tolerance, pluralism and development around the world.”

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PMO Press Office: 613-957-5555

This document is also available at http://pm.gc.ca
http://www.pm.gc.ca/eng/media.asp?id=2643