Canada and France Commit To Remembering Veterans' Valour

News Release

October 25, 2006

Paris, France - The Honourable Greg Thompson, Minister of Veterans Affairs, and Minister Hamlaoui Mekachera, the Minister of Veterans' Affairs of the French Republic, signed a Memorandum of Understanding yesterday that will see both countries collaborate on initiatives commemorating the shared memory of 20th century conflicts.

"The connection between Canada and France, forged in our military history, remains strong today," said Minister Thompson. "The Memorandum of Understanding that we signed yesterday is a promise of co-operation between our two nations, one that will ensure that the memory of the sacrifices made by the men and women of both countries will not be forgotten."

The agreement will help both countries in the planning, development and facilitation of commemorative initiatives around 20th century conflicts. France has signed similar Memorandums of Understanding with Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom.

Later this week, Minister Thompson and Minister Mekachera will meet again, as representatives from 24 countries gather for La Mémoire Partagée conference. La Mémoire Partagée conference offers a forum for discussions on issues that matter most to Veterans. During the conference, Veterans Affairs Canada will make a presentation on its successful Canada Remembers program and how it uses innovative approaches to engage Canadians in remembrance.

For more information on commemorative activities and events, visit the Veterans Affairs Canada Web site.

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