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Message from Her Excellency the Right Honourable Adrienne Clarkson Governor General of Canada on the occasion of Commonwealth Day, March 14, 2005March 7, 2005 "I am pleased to join with Canadians and with people from around the world as we celebrate Commonwealth Day 2005. This day holds special significance for Canada as one of the five founding members of the Commonwealth in 1931. The modern Commonwealth has grown to include 53 countries and 1.8 billion people who share a commitment to the same core values of democracy, freedom, diversity and the elimination of poverty. The organization has been a driving force for social and economic reform, and Canada has been proud to play a leading role in many Commonwealth initiatives. The theme of this year's celebration is "Education – creating opportunity, realizing potential." Canadians know well that knowledge is absolutely critical for our success as individuals and as a society, and we take great pride in having created public education and post-secondary school systems that are among the best in the world. Commonwealth Day provides us with the opportunity to celebrate the achievements of this wonderful international community and to renew our commitment to assist developing countries as they work to strengthen their social, political and economic systems." Adrienne Clarkson -30- Media information |
