Vive Pakistan
Remarks
by the Hon. David Kilgour, M.P. Edmonton Southeast to
the
Pakistan
Canada Association of Edmonton
for
The
Celebration of Pakistan’s
55th Anniversary
of Independence and
Volunteer
Appreciation Celebration
Maharaja
Banquet Hall, Edmonton
September
21, 2002
Mayor
Smith, President Quadri, Minister
Gene Zwozdesky, Ladies and
Gentlemen,
It
is an honour to be with you
to celebrate Pakistan’s 55th
Anniversary of Independence
and to salute all the volunteers
gathered here this evening.
What an excellent turnout!
It
is a privilege to attend Pakistan
Canada Association events.
The PCA stands out
as an organization that promotes
harmony within our diverse
community.
The many contributions
of the PCA of Edmonton have
added much to the richness
of life in this city. They
would not have been made possible
without the work of countless
volunteers. It is through
volunteerism that the PCA
and so many other cultural
organizations are able to
flourish.
Volunteerism
is fundamental to binding
communities, regions and nations
together.
Volunteers are the
closest to every community.
They encourage the
spirit of community-building
and co-operation. Edmonton
would like to become known
around the world as a “Volunteer
Capital” of the world—and
we deserve it given our record.
The
importance of the work carried
out by many of you here this
evening can scarcely be overstated.
Your enthusiasm and donations
make the impossible happen
every day. You have committed
time and energy to a variety
of important causes and in
doing so, have enriched our
community and our lives.
I
should probably say a few
words about 9/11 because I
know that the fall out from
it is still on all of our
minds.
Last week, one of only
three books published in Canada
on 9/11---compared to and
estimated 1500 in the U.S.---
was launched in this province
(unfortunately in Calgary,
not Edmonton).
Having co-authored
one of the chapters, I made
some remarks at the launch. If anyone is interested, both the chapter and
my comments are available
on my website.
On
behalf of the Government of
Canada, please permit me to
extend sincere congratulations
to everyone here this evening.
Your efforts and commitment
to our city are invaluable.
Please
keep up the good work!
