Mr. Speaker, many activities relating to the Francophonie are taking place this week.
First, there is the Semaine nationale de la Francophonie and the Rendez-vous de la Francophonie. The major event will be the Journée internationale de la Francophonie, on March 20.
This great celebration will be an opportunity to express our appreciation for a wonderful language that reflects such a rich culture.
Over 9 million Canadians speak French, including 6.6 million for whom French is their mother tongue. The Rendez-vous de la Francophonie are an opportunity for all of us francophones to show our cultural diversity and our contribution to the Canadian society.
The activities relating to the Francophonie will undoubtedly strengthen the ties between Canada's francophones and anglophones.