I believe we would do well to remember his words today. In this age of globalization, markets and economies are increasingly inter-connected, and societies themselves are feeling the pressure to become more homogeneous. By improving domestic and foreign trade, we enhance economic growth for everyone. When we share ideas, products and technologies, we learn to know one another better. And by learning to appreciate one another, we can help reduce the level of international tension.
Culture is the heart of every nation.
It is as central to our being and to our existence as the land, the lakes and the rivers that form the geographical space we occupy. It is the shared experience of a nation. Canada is committed to helping ensure that cultural considerations are placed much higher on the list of international priorities. We also believe it is imperative to adopt a broad view of culture, so as to ensure that it remains at the core of all development policies. At the same time, we must create closer relationships between cultural policy and development.