Minister Bendayan to participate in a Citizenship Ceremony to mark International Francophonie Day

The Honourable Rachel Bendayan, in her first ceremony as Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, will welcome 64 of Canada’s newest citizens from 31 different countries at this special ceremony to mark International Francophonie Day. MJ Quraishi will preside over the ceremony.

Ottawa, March 19, 2025 —The Honourable Rachel Bendayan, in her first ceremony as Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, will welcome 64 of Canada’s newest citizens from 31 different countries at this special ceremony to mark International Francophonie Day. MJ Quraishi will preside over the ceremony.

Notes for media:

• Media are asked to register in advance for this in-person event by sharing their name, title, email address and outlet with IRCC.Info-Info.IRCC@cic.gc.ca by Thursday, March 20, at 10:00 a.m. ET. Please include “RSVP for March 20 Citizenship Ceremony” in the subject line of the email.
• Media attending the event in person are asked to arrive no later than 1:45 p.m. ET.
• Photography and video are permitted during the ceremony.

For more information (media only):