WASHINGTON D.C. (BNO NEWS) – U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton congratulated the people and government of Canada as they celebrate the 143rd anniversary of the Confederation next Thursday, the State Department announced on Wednesday.

Canada Day, formerly known as Dominion Day, is celebrated each July 1 as it commemorates the union of two British colonies and the province of Canada into a single nation. On July 1, 1867, the British North America Act was enacted, annexing the British colonies of Nova Scotia and New Brunswick to the province (constituted at the time by Ontario and Quebec).

Clinton highlighted the strong partnership and friendship between the neighboring countries. The State Secretary said that both nations are linked by their fundamental values, shared history, and a shared continent.

"The U.S. deeply appreciates and honors our close relationship with our neighbors to the north. We have been resolute partners in the march to advance the cause of democracy, transparency, and good governance throughout the world, and we will continue to work together closely to address the challenges of the 21st century," Clinton said.

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