Ottawa, August 14, 2012 — The Honourable Jason Kenney, Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism, issued the following statement recognizing the celebration of Pakistan Independence Day:
Today is an official holiday in Pakistan to promote patriotism and national unity. In Canada, Canadians of Pakistani descent will celebrate their heritage with family and friends.
This day provides all Canadians with an excellent opportunity to reflect on the many contributions that the Pakistani community has made to our country. For over a century, Canadians of Pakistani descent have enriched Canada with their skills, their knowledge and their talent.
Canada’s Pakistani community is nearly 300,000 strong and continues to grow. As Pakistan is among Canada’s top ten source countries for immigrants, Pakistani Canadians will continue to make significant contributions to our economy and diverse society.
As Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism, I extend my best wishes for a very happy Pakistan Independence Day.
For further information (media only), please contact:
Ana Curic
Minister’s Office
Citizenship and Immigration Canada
613-954-1064
Media Relations
Communications Branch
Citizenship and Immigration Canada
613-952-1650
CIC-Media-Relations@cic.gc.ca
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