Prime Minister Stephen Harper today issued the following statement marking the anniversary of the birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji:
“Laureen and I would like to extend our best wishes to Sikhs across the country and around the world as they celebrate the 545th anniversary of the birth of the founder of their faith, Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
“Sikhism has grown to become one of the world’s great religions and I am thankful that our country is home to one of the largest and most dynamic Sikh populations outside of India.
“The values of Sikhism, including compassion, justice, and respect, are also Canadian values.
“Over the years, Laureen and I have been privileged to visit many wonderful Sikh temples both in India and here in Canada, including the Gur Sikh temple in Abbotsford, British Columbia, which stands as a National Historic Site and as a reminder to all Canadians that Sikhs have been an integral part of Canadian society for more than 100 years.
“On this occasion, I would also like to acknowledge the tremendous contributions of Canada’s vibrant Sikh community to our country’s rich and diverse heritage.
“On behalf of all Canadians, I extend my warmest regards to all those celebrating the birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.”
