OTTAWA,
ON, Aug. 9, 2024 /CNW/ - The Prime Minister,
Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on
National Peacekeepers' Day:
"On National Peacekeepers' Day, we remember the service and
sacrifice of Canadians who have dedicated their lives to building a
more peaceful world.
"Since the late 1940s, over 125,000 Canadians have participated
in nearly a hundred peacekeeping efforts around the globe. Today,
Canadian men and women continue this proud tradition, putting on
uniforms emblazoned with the Maple Leaf and representing our
country's long-standing commitment to helping those in need.
"Today commemorates the largest single-day loss of Canadians on
international peacekeeping duties when, in 1974, United Nations
Flight 51 was shot down by Syrian missiles, killing all nine
Canadian Armed Forces personnel onboard. Their courage must not be
forgotten.
"The federal government is committed to supporting our
peacekeepers, including those currently deployed in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. Last year we announced new
support for training and women in peace operations, including
through the Elsie Initiative for Women in Peace Operations and the
implementation of the Vancouver Principles on the Prevention of the
Recruitment and Use of Child Soldiers.
"On this National Peacekeepers' Day, I invite all Canadians to
learn more about our proud history as a leader in peacekeeping. To
the brave women and men who risk their lives to save others: On
behalf of the Government of Canada, I thank you for your service."
This document is also available at https://pm.gc.ca
SOURCE Prime Minister's Office