CANADA DAY: JULY 1, 2012

FROM:  U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT
Canada Day
Press Statement Hillary Rodham Clinton
Secretary of State Washington, DC
June 28, 2012

On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I am delighted to send best wishes to the people of Canada on the 145th anniversary of your Confederation this July 1.

This year's celebration is particularly meaningful as you commemorate the bicentennial year of the War of 1812. Throughout this struggle, Canada’s national identity was forged and it is now a defining moment in the history and development of both Canada and the United States. It defined the geographic, cultural, and political future of our continent and our peoples.

Two hundred years ago, we were adversaries; today, our two countries share ties of family, culture, and trade. Our relationship is as close as the relationship between any two other countries. We work together at home and abroad building prosperity and promoting peace, human dignity and human rights. We cherish this partnership and friendship. As you celebrate this special day with family, friends and loved ones, and reflect on all that you have accomplished, know that the United States stands with you as a partner and friend. Best wishes for a safe and joyous Canada Day celebration.

SECRETARY OF STATE CLINTON MEETS WITH CANADIAN FOREIGN MINISTER JOHN BAIRD

FROM:  U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT
Remarks With Canadian Foreign Minister John Baird
Remarks Hillary Rodham Clinton
Secretary of State Blair House
Washington, DC
April 12, 2012
SECRETARY CLINTON: Well, my friend and colleague and I have a lot in common, except for who we support in the upcoming playoffs. The fact is that I hate to root against any team called the Senators; however, I was a senator because of the good people of New York, so of course I’m rooting for – ta-da – the Rangers.

FOREIGN MINISTER BAIRD: And while I like one New York senator – (laughter) – former New York senator – (laughter) – I like the Ottawa Senators, so we’re obviously with the Ottawa Senators. And we’re having a bet for the first round of the playoffs. And we’re looking forward to giving you this great Ottawa Senators jersey. It’s my favorite player, Jason Spezza. You’ll look great in it. (Laughter.) You can wear it around the house.

SECRETARY CLINTON: Well, I want lots of pictures of you wearing this jersey – (laughter) – once the Rangers actually win. And so we’ll have to wait and see how it turns out, but I’m pretty confident that you’ll look good in blue.

FOREIGN MINISTER BAIRD: I look good in blue. (Laughter.) But I think I look better in red. (Laughter.)

SECRETARY CLINTON: Thanks, everybody.