Lahore (Web Desk): Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau will officially award honourary Canadian Citizenship to Nobel Peace Prize winner Malala Yousafzai on her visit to Canada on April 12, Trudeau announced on Monday.
In October 2014, Malala was bestowed honorary Canadian citizenship by the House of Commons in recognition of her courage in the fight for women and girls’ education.
The youngest person to win the Nobel Peace Prize Malala will also address the Canadian Parliament during her visit, making her the youngest person to do so.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau will meet with Malala to discuss the empowerment of girls through education and how they might contribute to the sustainable development of their communities.
Trudeau stated, “I am pleased to announce Malala Yousafzai’s upcoming visit to Canada. Ms Yousafzai’s courageous response to those who threatened her life, and her advocacy for girls’ education, has inspired many millions of people around the world. Her story is one of determination and dignity, and Canada is proud to call her an honorary citizen of this great country. I look forward to attending the upcoming ceremony and witnessing the historic moment when she becomes the youngest person to address the Parliament of Canada".
Malala has become an internationally recognised spokesperson for women’s rights since surviving a Taliban attack at age 15.
Malala ahead of her visit said, “The people of Canada are leading the world in their response to the refugee crisis".
She said, “I am honoured by the Parliament’s invitation and look forward to visiting this great nation of heroes”.
She is one of just six lucky people to receive honourary Canadian citizenship.
