Prime Minister Mark Carney issued a statement today recognizing the importance of the French language in Canada, as the country joins global celebrations for the International Day of La Francophonie.

In his message, the Prime Minister emphasized that French remains central to Canada’s national identity, highlighting the country’s commitment to bilingualism and the equal status of both official languages. He noted that French plays a vital role in shaping Canadian culture, strengthening communities, and connecting people across all provinces and territories.

The government, he said, continues to uphold the principles of the Official Languages Act by supporting French-language education and expanding opportunities for young Canadians to become bilingual. Collaboration with provincial and territorial governments remains key to these efforts.

Carney also underscored the importance of preserving and promoting original French-language content. He pointed to a $150 million investment in CBC/Radio-Canada through Budget 2025, aimed at ensuring the production of high-quality programming that reflects Canada’s Francophone communities and cultural richness.

On the international stage, the Prime Minister reaffirmed Canada’s leadership within the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie, noting the country’s role as a founding member and second-largest donor. He also highlighted Canada’s bid to host the Francophonie Summit in 2028, which he said would boost trade, investment, and global recognition of Canadian Francophone culture.

Concluding his statement, Carney joined Francophones and Francophiles across the country in celebrating the French language and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to preserving it as a cornerstone of Canadian identity.