As Canada asserts its identity, English and French are seen as defining symbols

Survey finds most Canadians link official languages to national pride and see them as an asset for expanding trade.

Most Canadians say English and French are important to Canada’s identity, contribute to their pride in being Canadian and can help diversify the country’s economy beyond North America, a new federal survey suggests.

The findings come as Canadian identity and sovereignty gain renewed attention amid a trade dispute with the United States and President Donald Trump’s repeated suggestions Canada should become the 51st state.

“Promoting bilingualism is a way of also promoting who we are as Canadians and distinguishing ourselves from other nations around the world,” official languages commissioner Kelly Burke said in an interview Monday.

She said being a bilingual nation can help “in opening up channels for trade in other jurisdictions outside of North America.”

The survey was commissioned by the federal languages commissioner.