The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on la Fête nationale du Québec and Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day:

“Today, on la Fête nationale du Québec, Sophie and I join our fellow Quebecers to proudly celebrate the unique history and identity of Quebec. As we gather with family and friends, we honour this proud and dynamic culture that makes Quebec prosper.

“On Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day, we also join Francophones across the country to celebrate our language, heritage and traditions.

“The French language and francophone culture are foundational to our country, and they continue to shape our values, our aspirations and our Canadian identity. Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day is an opportunity for all of us to reflect on the essential contributions Francophones have made to build the diverse, strong and inclusive country that we all call home.

“On behalf of our family, Sophie and I offer our best wishes to Quebecers, Francophones and all those celebrating la Fête nationale du Québec and Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day.”