Mr. Speaker, on this International Day of La Francophonie, I would like to pay tribute to francophone communities that have achieved extraordinary success over the years.
Tenacity and creativity characterize these generations of francophones who settled here and in more than 60 other countries, putting down roots and cultivating their values and dreams from the old world.
This International Day of La Francophonie is also one of the highlights of the ninth Rendez-vous de la Francophonie.
Additionally, strongly supported by the $52 million announced yesterday during the budget presentation, the 12th summit of la Francophonie, to be held in Quebec City in fall 2008, will constitute further recognition of those who have worked to ensure the survival of French language and culture.
Along with the Minister for la Francophonie and Official Languages, I am delighted to see francophones all over the country getting together to celebrate this International Day of La Francophonie.