The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement to mark Haiti’s Independence Day:

“Today, we join members of the Haitian community in Canada and around the world to celebrate Haiti’s Independence Day.

“Canada and Haiti share a strong relationship, rooted in our shared language and close connections between people in our two countries. Today, more than 165,000 Canadians of Haitian origin call Canada home.

“Our two countries work together in several international organizations, including the United Nations, the Organization of American States, and the International Organization of La Francophonie. This past June, we welcomed Haiti at the G7 Summit Outreach Session, where countries came together to protect our oceans, seas, and coastal communities.

“Canada supports Haiti’s efforts to encourage economic growth and create opportunities for all its citizens. We are also helping to ensure all Haitians have access to the good quality health and education services they need.

“Today, I invite all Canadians to celebrate the important contributions the Haitian-Canadian community makes to our country. On behalf of the Government of Canada, I extend my best wishes to all those celebrating Haiti’s Independence Day.”