Rahim at Edmonton World Partnership Walk

May 30, 2006

EDMONTON- Good morning ladies and gentlemen, organizers of the World Partnership Walk and all of today’s participants.

Bonjour mesdames et monsieurs, organisateurs et tous nos participants.

How are you all doing?  What a great City this is – the Oilers are on their way to the Stanley Cup finals; the rain has stopped; and it is just such a beautiful day to be here.  The sun is shinning and I am ready to go – Are you?

It is my sincere pleasure to be invited here today to bring you greetings on behalf of Canada’s new government, the national Conservative caucus and Prime Minister Stephen Harper.

I am so glad to be here with all of you today.  This will be my 9th time participating in the World Partnership Walk and every year it just gets bigger and better.

The World Partnership Walk has raised more than 30 million dollars over the years with the help of you and many Canadians.  All of the money raised will go directly to help those in need in Asia and Africa.

La marche des Partenaires Mondiaux  est le plus grand et le plus ancien evenement de sa type qui support le developpement international au Canada.  Cette evenement existe pour informer et pour aider a combattre la pauvrete globale.

Global poverty is an issue that concerns all Canadians.  Together we can make a difference and by being here today you are doing something about it.  I graciously thank you for that.

I would also like to thank the organizers for their hard work and dedication and for always making this event an enjoyable experience.  As well, let’s not forget the many sponsors to this years event.  Your assistance is truly appreciated.

The challenge presented to us today is to Walk the Walk and Change the World  - So let’s Go!

Thank you.