Premier Christy Clark has issued the following statement on the 67th Republic Day of India:

"Sixty-seven years ago, the Republic of India was formed when the new constitution came into effect. Indians went from being subjects of the British Crown to citizens of the world’s largest democracy – a transformation that heralded the end of the world’s colonial era.

“Then as now, India is playing a major role in a changing world, lifting millions out of poverty with the world’s fastest-growing middle class.

“With a proud and vibrant Indo-Canadian community, British Columbia has always had a special cultural connection with India. And while our predecessors sometimes failed to see it, our connections with India have made British Columbia a better, more colourful and prosperous place.

“As we continue to expand trade and research relationships, those ties will grow stronger. I wish British Columbia's Indo-Canadian community a meaningful and memorable celebration."