Canadian leader Justin Trudeau tells Syrian refugees #WelcometoCanada

A military plane carrying the first group of refugees arrived at Toronto’s Pearson International Airport, where they were met by Trudeau and Canadian citizens eager to greet the new arrivals.

Trudeau said last month that he is “very much committed to keeping Canadians safe” while continuing to bring Syrian refugees into the country.

The first Syrian refugee families arrived in Canada and were personally welcomed by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

Canada’s openness to this issue stands in contrast to the USA as they have been unenthusiastic about taking in refugees into their country.

“This is something that we are able to do in this country because we define a Canadian not by a skin colour or a language or a religion or a background, but by a shared set of values, aspirations, hopes and dreams that not just Canadians but people around the world share”, he said. “We’re so happy to see them”.

“It’s like a Christmas gift to us”, she said of their arrival.

“I am pleased to support this initiative that will allow newcomers to discover Canadian culture through enriching cultural and artistic experiences”, said Mélanie Joly, the Minister for Canadian Heritage in a press release.

Farhat’s uncle, Sahak Nakazian, held a bouquet of red and white flowers as he and his wife prepared to leave for their niece’s home in Mississauga, Ont.

A second federal government planeload of Syrian refugees is to arrive in Montreal tonight.

Sarkis Jenanian was meeting his uncle, who was his sponsor, in Toronto before heading to St. Catharines, Ont., where he looked forward to beginning a new chapter.

“Refugees will always be welcome in Canada”, he said. “Your friends pass away”.

“I urge other corporations across Canada to open their hearts”, said Philpott. “There’s many things you can do, there’s many chances”.