Prime Minister Stephen Harper kicks off the 2015 Pan American Games

Toronto: Prime Minister Stephen Harper attended the opening ceremony of the 2015 Pan American Games:

While kicking off the ceremony ,Prime Minister Stephen Harper said that “I am proud to be here today in Toronto to take part in the opening ceremony of the 2015 Pan American Games.

“Canada is a very active partner in the Americas and it is a great honour to be hosting the hemisphere’s finest athletes here at home. As we welcome thousands of competitors from 41 countries and territories to our very own Pan American Games, we look forward to celebrating the diverse cultures of the participants and to promoting deeper ties among nations of the Americas. As the official song of the games conveys, ‘Together We Are One’.

“Canadians are especially proud of our own athletes who, through their dedication, hard work and competitive spirit, have qualified for the national team. Laureen and I and our family will be joining citizens from coast to coast to coast to excitedly cheer our athletes on to victory.

“I wish all incoming teams the best of luck and encourage all visitors to explore the wonders that Toronto, Ontario, and Canada have to offer.

“Once again, Laureen and I would like to wish all our athletes, coaches, team officials, volunteers and organizers the best of luck as Canada takes on the hemisphere at the 2015 Pan American Games.”