Former Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper has emphasized the importance of preserving Canada's independence, urging the country's political parties to unite and make sacrifices for the nation's unity. In a ceremony marking the unveiling of his official portrait, Harper expressed his hope that his portrait, along with others from both parties, would continue to be displayed in Parliament Hill for generations to come. Among those paying tribute was Prime Minister Mark Carney, who praised Harper's composure, intellect, and decisiveness. Harper highlighted the need for the two main political parties, the Liberals and the Conservatives, to work together in these challenging times, especially in the face of external threats to Canada's independence and internal policies that could threaten its unity. Harper's remarks seemed to allude to the strained relationship between Canada and the US under President Donald Trump, as well as the growing separatism movement in Alberta. During a fireside chat with former Prime Minister Jean Chrétien, Harper praised the surge of Canadian patriotism in response to Trump and emphasized the importance of Canadians sticking together. Harper served as prime minister from 2006 to 2015 and is often praised for his focus on Canada's Arctic, his government's handling of the 2008 financial crisis, and his ability to unite the conservative movement in Canada. However, he has also faced criticism for his government's failure to address climate change and allegations of muzzling federal scientists. Harper's portrait, painted by Toronto artist Phil Richards, incorporates elements of his personal, political, and professional life, including his cat Stanley, a French-English dictionary to celebrate his bilingualism, and the skyline of his hometown of Calgary. Harper is in Ottawa for a week of events marking 20 years since he became prime minister, with celebrations concluding on Wednesday evening with a gala.
