Statement By The Prime Minister Of Canada

April 14, 2010

Prime Minister Stephen Harper today issued the following statement to welcome the Commonwealth Games Queen’s Baton Relay to Canada:
 
“The Queen’s Baton Relay has been an integral part of the Commonwealth Games since it was introduced in 1958.  It allows communities all over the Commonwealth to take part in Games festivities, while fulfilling its practical function of carrying a message from Her Majesty the Queen to be read at the Games’ Opening Ceremony in Delhi, India.  The Commonwealth Games will take place from October 3 to October 14, 2010.
 
“From April 14 to April 18, it is Canada’s turn to welcome the Baton in Toronto and Ottawa.  We have a proud tradition of hosting and participating in the Commonwealth Games, and the Baton Relay allows Canadians to get into the Commonwealth Games spirit. 
 
“During my trip to India in November 2009, Indian star and Olympic Torchbearer Akshay Kumar was presented with a prototype of the 2010 Olympic Torch.  I am proud that by embracing the Queen’s Baton Relay for the Delhi Commonwealth Games, Canadians will return the warm welcome that the Torch received in India.”