And there is plenty to celebrate.

Canadians have always shared a special relationship with the land because we live in a country that is both rich in nature and resources.  Our dense forests, rolling prairies and extensive coastlines provide jobs, as well as the opportunity for a healthy outdoor lifestyle.

In Canada, education is valued and innovation is inspired. From modern conveniences such as the Blackberry to life-saving breakthroughs like Insulin and the artificial heart, Canadians have made their mark on a global scale.

We are also privileged to live in a country that has been home to enduring peace and prosperity; so much so, that our partners and allies around the world can count on us to contribute to global peace and democracy. We have only to look at the outstanding work that our brave men and women in uniform are carrying out today in Afghanistan to see the difference that Canada is making on the world stage.

But right now, we are being tested. The setbacks of the global economic downturn are challenging all of us. Our jobs, our families and our communities are impacted.

However, our country is weathering the storm in true Canadian fashion. Our banking system is strong and we are holding the smallest debt compared to GDP of any country in the G-7. We are positioned well and, like in so many other ways, our stability during this tough time is the envy of many other countries around the world.

So on this day, in the midst of the continued global challenges, we can be proud of who we are, where we come from, and where we stand today.

More than that, we can be confident in where we will stand tomorrow.