Statement By The Prime Minister Of Canada

August 08, 2010

Prime Minister Stephen Harper today issued the following statement to mark National Peacekeepers’ Day:
 
“Canadian families enjoy a freedom, stability and security envied throughout the world. Yet with that freedom comes responsibility and Canada has consistently answered the call to help those in countries where conflict threatens stability and peace. Today, we pay special tribute to those Canadians who have served as peacekeepers.
 
 “For over 60 years, Canada has sent members of the Canadian Forces, civilians and police officers to act as peacekeepers in some of the world’s most volatile conflict zones, including the Middle East, the Balkans, Africa and Haiti, to name a few.
Today, these brave Canadians continue to put their lives at risk on a daily basis as they work in challenging circumstances to maintain what is often a fragile peace.
 
“Danger comes with the territory and today we also pay special tribute to the over 200 Canadians who have made the ultimate sacrifice on peacekeeping missions over the past 62 years. 
 
“The nature of peacekeeping continues to change and increasingly requires robust and multi-faceted capabilities. However, we can be sure that Canadian peacekeepers will continue working to make the world a better place by promoting freedom, human rights, and the rule of law.
 
“On National Peacekeeper’s Day, I am proud to recognize the ongoing work of Canadian peacekeepers as they promote these noble objectives.”