Mr. Speaker, today I rise in the House to congratulate Canadian Cypriots and Cypriots around the world on the 60th anniversary of Cyprus independence.
For 29 years, our Canadian Armed Forces contributed to the UN peacekeeping force in Cyprus. Both of our countries are full members of the Commonwealth and La Francophonie, contributing to even closer co-operation and partnership between our nations.
I congratulate Canadian Cypriots and Cypriots around the world on the 60th anniversary of Cyprus independence. As a member of the Canadian Forces, I had the honour and privilege of taking part in Canada's peacekeeping operations in Cyprus in 1992. Twenty-eight Canadian heroes died in the line of duty on this Mediterranean island.
We will forever be grateful for their sacrifice and their service.