Trudeau to apologize to Italians mistreated in Canada during WWII

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says the federal government will issue a formal apology to Italians mistreated in Canada during the Second World War.

Trudeau made the announcement Friday in Vaughan, Ont., at an event celebrating Italian heritage month.

WATCH: June 11 — Italian Heritage Month

6:04 Italian Heritage Month

He says during the war, Italian Canadian families and businesses struggled and no one was held responsible.

Trudeau says a formal apology would offer closure to the community.

Get breaking National news

For news impacting Canada and around the world, sign up for breaking news alerts delivered directly to you when they happen.

Sign up for breaking National newsletter Sign Up

By providing your email address, you have read and agree to Global News' Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

READ MORE: Various weekend road closures in store for Toronto’s Taste of Little Italy festival

He also announced that the federal government would be opening a permanent trade centre in Milan, Italy.

Trudeau did not provide further details, but he says the centre will ensure that the “future is bright” between Canada and Italy.