Statement by the Prime Minister on the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Rome

Prime Minister Stephen Harper today issued the following statement congratulating members of the European Union on the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Rome:

"Canada’s history is bound to that of Europe. Our common values are made visible every day in the way we and our European friends work together to address the world’s most pressing issues. As a strategic partner of the EU, Canada salutes the efforts of all Europeans to build a better, more peaceful world.

Canadians join with me and all members of the Government of Canada in wishing the citizens and governments of the European Union well as they build a common future together."

The Treaty of Rome was the founding document that eventually led to what is now known as the European Union. It was signed on March 25, 1957, by France, Italy, Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg.

For additional background information on Canada’s relationship with the European Union, please visit http://www.canadaeuropa.gc.ca