CANADA: PRIME Minister, Justin Trudeau, has pleaded with Canadians to extend their hands of generosity to the Syrians refugees who were recently brought to the country.

Trudeau, in his Christmas message to his fellow countrymen and women in Ottawa, also urged them not to forget Canadian soldiers who could not celebrate the yearly event with their family members.

“This is a time to give thanks for loved ones, and look back on the past year,” the Prime Minister said.   “We come together – in places of worship, around the table, or under the tree – to celebrate the spirit of the season.”

Trudeau added: “We often celebrate this time of year by showing our generosity to family and friends.”

“I trust that we will do the same with the thousands of people who are experiencing the Canadian holidays and the Canadian winter for the first time – the Syrian refugees,” he emphasized, while adding: “After all, we share values of love, hope, and compassion. It’s what we do and it’s who we are.”

He went further: “Let us also take time to remember the brave women and men of the Canadian Armed Forces who cannot be with their families. We appreciate these sacrifices for our country – not just today, but every day.”

“My friends, I’m deeply grateful for the support you’ve shown my family and me over this past year. I am honored to have this opportunity to serve you.”

“From our family to yours, Sophie and I send you the warmest of Christmas wishes and all the best for health and happiness in 2016,” the Trudeau added.