PRIME Minister Justin Trudeau on Tuesday announced that a state funeral will be held for former prime minister Brian Mulroney who passed away on February 29.

Mulroney was an extraordinary statesman and a distinguished politician, lawyer, and businessman who devoted his career to serving Canadians, Trudeau said.

As Canada’s 18th Prime Minister, he made significant progress on important issues here at home and around the world. His leadership was instrumental in negotiating and implementing free trade agreements with the United States and Mexico, milestones that reshaped economic relations across North America. He built bridges between French and English Canada, led important measures on environmental issues, and fiercely advocated for peace, equality, and democracy internationally.

Mulroney was a recipient of numerous honours, including the Order of Canada and the Ordre national du Québec – recognizing his tireless service and devotion to our country.

The state funeral ceremony will be held on March 23 in Montréal, and will be preceded by a lying-in-state in Ottawa, and a lying-in-repose in Montréal. These events will give Canadians an opportunity to salute Mulroney’s contributions to public life and offer their condolences. More details will be provided in due course.

Trudeau said: “Brian Mulroney never stopped working for Canada. He was a champion of the values that unite us as Canadians and will forever be remembered as a force for the common good. His funeral will provide an opportunity to honour his incredible legacy – one that will continue to shape our country for generations to come.”