Will come out of this pandemic as more resilient country: Justin Trudeau on National Observance Day for COVID-19

"We honor every individual who lost their lives to this disease, and we stand with the people they loved as they continue to cope with this unimaginable loss. Together, we also recognize all who have been impacted by the pandemic, and we reaffirm our commitment to work as Team Canada to beat this virus," said Trudeau.

More than 22,000 Canadian families have lost a loved one, Trudeau said, while health care and front-line workers have risked their lives to keep others safe and healthy and added that many people have lost their jobs and businesses.

While acknowledging the heavy toll that the global pandemic has taken and continues to take, both here at home and abroad, Trudeau said to date, more than 2.6 million people have died globally from COVID-19, including 22,000 Canadians.

"We honor their memory, and renew our commitment to do whatever it takes, for as long as it takes, to keep people safe and supported through this crisis...take this opportunity to thank our front line workers who have been working tirelessly every single day to keep us safe and healthy. We owe these everyday heroes an immense debt of gratitude, and we will continue to offer the support they need," said Trudeau.

Trudeau said although the past year has been difficult, better days are ahead of both nationally and globally and added,  "We will come out of this pandemic a more resilient country in a stronger global community.”

(Reporting by Asha Bajaj)