Canadian PM addresses Armenian community on the occasion of theArmenian Genocide Centennial

TORONTO, 23 APRIL, ARMENPRESS. Prime Minister of Canada Stephen Harper has addressed the Armenian community of Canada on the occasion of the Centennial of the Armenian Genocide, Canada’s Horizon Weekly reports, according to “Armenpress”.

The Prime Minister’s statement reads as follows: On this day we remember the terrible loss of life during the demise of the Ottoman Empire in 1915, and in particular the horrific suffering endured by the Armenian people one hundred years ago. Both the Senate of Canada and the House of Commons have adopted resolutions referring to these events as genocide.

This is a day we acknowledge solemnly, not to cast blame back into the distant past, but to guide us towards a better future. It reminds us all why we must remain committed to ensuring that today’s world is one where respect for human rights and democratic freedom prevails.

Today, Canadians of Armenian and Turkish origin live together, sharing our values of tolerance and openness. In this spirit, we encourage Armenia and Turkey to resume discussion of normalization protocols, to seek a path towards reconciliation including an open border, the establishment of diplomatic relations and the implementation of a dialogue on the events of 1915.

On this day of remembrance, we praise individuals in both countries who are courageously examining the historical record to seek to achieve a common understanding with honesty and in a spirit of goodwill.

Now one hundred years later, I join all Canadians, especially those of Armenian descent, in remembering the past and in sharing hope for a future based on peace and mutual respect.”