“This national Diwali celebration, now in its 12th year, spreads goodwill between cultures and reinforces the close friendship between India and Canada,” said the Prime Minister. “With nearly one million Indo-Canadians living in Canada today, we are all very grateful for their contributions to our country and look forward to celebrating this festival honouring their culture.”
Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, commemorates the triumph of good over evil and of light over darkness. It is a holiday that encourages families to count their blessings and to look back on the past year and towards the future while remembering to look out for those most in need.
Canada and India share strong historic ties and a solid working relationship. On November 3, Prime Minister Harper will travel to India where he will meet with Manmohan Singh, Prime Minister of India, and other ministers and officials from the Indian government.