Former Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper emphasized the importance of maintaining Canada's independence during a ceremony unveiling his official portrait. In his speech, Harper called on political parties to unite and make sacrifices to safeguard the country's unity and sovereignty. He expressed hope that his portrait, along with others from various political backgrounds, will adorn the walls of Parliament Hill for generations to come, symbolizing the nation's resilience and progress. Prime Minister Mark Carney, among those paying tribute, praised Harper's leadership qualities, including his composure, intellect, and decisiveness. Harper also addressed the need for political cooperation between the Liberal and Conservative parties, especially in challenging times. He highlighted the threat posed by external forces, such as President Donald Trump's tariffs and rhetoric, as well as the growing separatism movement in Alberta. Harper's remarks underscored the importance of national unity and the need for Canadians to stand together. The portrait, painted by Toronto artist Phil Richards, captures Harper's personal and political life, including his beloved cat Stanley, a French-English dictionary symbolizing his bilingualism, and the skyline of his hometown, Calgary. Harper's week-long visit to Ottawa marks 20 years since his ascension to the prime ministership, with celebrations concluding on Wednesday evening.
