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Ottawa – former Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper called for cross-party cooperation, warning that preserving Canada’s independence may require meaningful sacrifices. The plea came during a ceremony Tuesday marking the unveiling of his official portrait.
Harper Urges Unity Amidst Rising Global Uncertainty
The former prime minister emphasized national unity as crucial for navigating “perilous times.”
- Harper stressed the need for political parties to unite against external threats to Canada’s sovereignty.
- Prime Minister Mark Carney lauded Harper’s decade in office, highlighting his composure and decisiveness.
- The portrait unveiling was part of a week-long festivity of the 20th anniversary of the Harper government.
- Current Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre attended the event, following a party convention were he secured strong support.
What’s the biggest takeaway from Harper’s speech? The former prime minister believes that safeguarding Canada’s independence and unity demands a willingness to compromise and collaborate across the political spectrum, even in the face of significant challenges.
Artist Phil Richards began work on the portrait in 2023. The painting depicts Harper seated in what Richards described as the Prime Minister’s office as it appeared in 1920, filled with personal and political artifacts-even his cat, Stanley, makes an appearance on the floor.
Former prime minister Stephen Harper, Prime Minister Mark Carney, and artist Phil Richards pose with Harper’s official portrait at a ceremony in Ottawa on Tuesday.
Harper expressed his hope that his portrait would join others of former prime ministers adorning the walls of Parliament for generations to come. “That will require that in these perilous times, both parties, whatever their other differences, come together against external forces that threaten our
