Statement by the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, on the occasion of Commonwealth Day

OTTAWA, March 11, 2013 /CNW/ - I encourage all Canadians to take time today to learn more about Commonwealth Day as we reflect on Canada's Queen, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, and her remarkable Diamond Jubilee celebration year in 2012.

Every year, Commonwealth Day is observed on the second Monday in March. The day allows Canadians, as well as citizens of the 53 other Commonwealth member countries, to reflect on the ties that bind us and the values we share.

The Commonwealth, headed by Queen Elizabeth II, upholds the fundamental values and principles of democracy, freedom, peace, the rule of law and equal opportunity.

On this day, buildings, airports, military bases and other federal facilities in Canada will fly the Union Jack alongside the National Flag.

On behalf of Prime Minister Stephen Harper and the Government of Canada, I invite Canadians to discover one of the many facets of our heritage, as a continuation of the Queen's Diamond Jubilee celebrations, in 2012, and in preparation for Canada's 150^th birthday, in 2017. Let us make Commonwealth Day a time to celebrate everything that makes Canada the united, strong and free country that we live in today.

SOURCE: Canadian Heritage