Prime Minister Stephen Harper attended the 7th annual Diwali celebration on Parliament Hill that was organized by Deepak Obhrai, M.P. and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, on Parliament Hill on Monday evening.
Federal ministers, leaders of all opposition parties, many members of parliament and senators, foreign envoys and Indo-Canadians from Ottawa, Toronto and Montreal attended the celebration.
Speaking at the event, Harper pointed out that the celebration of Diwali was symbolic of one of Canada's greatest strengths - its commitment to pluralism.
"Since its birth, Canada has bound together individuals of varying ethnic and religious backgrounds in pursuit of a common goal - to build a peaceful, prosperous country rooted in equality of opportunity," Harper said, addressing an overflowing gathering in Parliament's West Block.
The Prime Minister praised Canada's Indo-Canadian community for their contributions towards this endeavour. "Fuelled by an unshakeable work ethic and commitment to family and community, Indo-Canadians are helping to build a stronger, better Canada for us."
Harper praised Obhrai for his role in building bridges between Canada's Conservative government and the Indo-Canadian community.
"Deepak has been particularly active in helping Canada strengthen its relationship with India, the world's most populous democracy and an emerging economic power," Harper said.
Obhrai said that Diwali can now be considered a truly Canadian festival with Indo-Canadians and well-wishers from coast to coast joining to celebrate the Hindu festival of lights.
He said: "With seven continuous annual festivals on Parliament Hill, we have made this Canada's national Diwali celebration. We must continue this great tradition into the future."
Leader of the Official Opposition Bill Graham, Leader of the Bloc Quebecois Gilles Duceppe and Leader of the NDP Jack Layton also spoke at the event, wishing all a happy Diwali. Also in attendance were Immigration Minister Monte Solberg and Health Minister Tony Clement. India's High Commissioner to Canada Shyamala B. Cowsik reminded the audience that India and Canada shared a special bond in their commitment towards multi-ethnic, multi-lingual democracy and pluralism.
The event was organized by the India Canada Association of Ottawa, Indo Canada Ottawa Business Council, Federation of Hindu Temples of Canada, Hindu Mandir of Montreal, India Canada Organization of Montreal, Hindu Sabha Temple Brampton, Vishnu Temple Toronto and the Canadian Council of Hindus.
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