Former prime minister Stephen Harper is being honoured at several events in Ottawa this week ahead of the 20th anniversary of his Conservative government, which was sworn into power on Feb. 6, 2006.
On Monday afternoon, the Royal Canadian Geographical Society will award Harper its gold medal in recognition of “his distinguished career in public service, including his tenure as the 22nd Prime Minister of Canada,” according to a press release.
The presentation ceremony is followed by a fireside chat with former Liberal prime minister Jean Chrétien, who received the society’s gold medal in 2022 along with former Liberal prime minister Paul Martin.
On Tuesday afternoon, Harper’s official portrait will be unveiled during a ceremony at the Sir John A. Macdonald Building in downtown Ottawa.
The portrait has been painted by Canadian artist Phil Richards, who has done portraits of other prominent Canadians, including former Bank of Canada governor Stephen Poloz and former Ontario premier Bob Rae.
Stephen Harper begins his minority government in 2006
Richards also painted the official Canadian Diamond Jubilee portrait of Queen Elizabeth II.
On Friday, there will be a gala dinner honouring the 20th anniversary of Harper’s government.
Members of the gala’s organizing committee include former chiefs of staff Ian Brodie and Ray Novak, and former Conservative senator Nicole Eaton.
In a statement posted to social media Sunday afternoon, Harper said he’s “excited to be in Ottawa this week and looking forward to seeing so many friends and former colleagues from across our great country.”
“We’re grateful for the chance to reconnect and celebrate our government’s 20th anniversary with everyone!” Harper added.
Harper served as prime minister for nine years and eight months. He was defeated in the 2015 federal election by former Liberal prime minister Justin Trudeau.
