Harper's homecoming brings celebration and cautious reflection.

Stephen Harper's official prime ministerial portrait was unveiled in Ottawa as part of events marking the 20th anniversary of his party's 2006 government, and he and other former leaders used the occasions to call for national unity amid strained Canada–U.S. ties.

Stephen Harper's official portrait as prime minister was unveiled in downtown Ottawa during a week of commemorative events tied to the 20th anniversary of his party forming government. Large screens at the ceremony showed photographs from his 2006–2015 time in office that highlighted the far north, the military, his family and political colleagues. The painted portrait by Phil Richards was revealed behind a House-of‑Commons-green curtain and greeted with speeches that had a reflective, appreciative tone. Many Conservatives attended the gatherings in what was described as a homecoming-style set of activities. Key points: - The portrait unveiling was accompanied by a photo display that underscored the passage of time since Harper's decade in office and noted that some close colleagues from that period have since died. - In his remarks, Mr. Harper thanked his family and supporters and repeated a call, in both French and English, for national unity in the face of external pressures and domestic divisions. - On a separate occasion in Ottawa, Harper received the Royal Canadian Geographic Society's gold medal and spoke onstage with former prime minister Jean Chrétien; both offered historical perspectives and commented on Canada–U.S. relations. - Speakers at the events reflected on continuity and change in Canadian politics, noting lessons from past decades even as current geopolitical shifts were discussed. Summary: The portrait unveiling framed Harper's decade in office as part of a longer national story and prompted public calls from him and other former leaders for unity amid perceived strains in Canada–U.S. relations. Commemorative events and conversations in Ottawa this week mark the 20th anniversary of the 2006 Conservative government, and related activities are continuing in the city this week.