OTTAWA — Justin Trudeau is using his first Christmas message as prime minister to encourage Canadians to share the spirit of the season with Syrian refugees.
Trudeau says this is a time of year celebrated by showing generosity to family and friends.
And he says he trusts Canadians will do the same with Syrian refugees experiencing Canadian holidays and winter for the first time.
After all, he says, Canadians share values of love, hope and compassion — it is what we do and who are.
The Liberals have committed to resettling 10,000 Syrians by year end, and a further 15,000 by the end of February. As of Dec. 20, 1,608 have landed.
Trudeau also says Canadians should take time to remember the men and women of the military who can't be with their families this holiday. He says Canadians appreciate their sacrifices.
"My friends, I'm deeply grateful for the support you've shown my family and me over this past year. I am honoured to have this opportunity to serve you," Trudeau also says.
"From our family to yours, Sophie and I send you the warmest of Christmas wishes and all the best for health and happiness in 2016."
