On July 1, 2014, Canada’s 147th birthday, more than 2,200 new Canadians from 138 countries were welcomed to the country at 45 citizenship ceremonies across the nation.

Citizenship and Immigration Minister Chris Alexander was proud to welcome new Canadians at a Canada Day citizenship ceremony in his home town of Ajax, Ontario. At the ceremony, Minister Alexander reaffirmed his intention to boost the speed and efficiency of Canada’s citizenship program.

“On behalf of the Government of Canada, I would like to congratulate our newest citizens and welcome them to the Canadian family on this special day,” said Minister Alexander. “Canada Day is a day to reflect on what it means to be Canadian and to reaffirm our commitment to upholding Canadian values, which have their roots in democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. It is a day to recognize both the rights and responsibilities of each and every Canadian.”

Canada has welcomed over 1,300,000 proud new Canadians since 2006.