The Citadelle, Wednesday, September 20, 2006

This gathering is historically important because it is the first time that a State luncheon has been held at the Citadelle.

My husband Jean-Daniel Lafond and I could not have hoped for better company in which to begin this tradition than that of a head of State who was once a citizen of this country for over 40 years and who understands the historical and heritage significance that Quebec City has in our collective history.

At first glance, it might appear that Canada and Latvia have little in common. Madame President, you know better than most that nothing could be further from the truth.

For indeed there are many similarities between our two countries.

For example, both our nations have relatively small populations and must deal with powerful neighbours.

Both Nordic countries, Canada and Latvia are noted for the beauty of their natural landscapes.

Our economies are both highly reliant on trade.

And then there is our shared commitment to multilateralism.

As you well know, Canada belongs to numerous international bodies, including the UN, NATO, the G-8, the Commonwealth, la Francophonie, and others.

Latvia, since reclaiming its independence in 1991, has joined the EU, NATO, the OSCE, the WTO and several other international bodies.

This commitment to multilateralism, which we steadfastly promote, has led to many high-level meetings between the representatives of our two countries.

These include visits to Latvia by Canada’s former finance minister and by the current speaker of our House of Commons. As well, there have been visits to Canada by several of Latvia’s ministers.

And today, it is my very great pleasure to host this State luncheon in your honour, Madame President.

For I have been deeply moved by all that we have in common. My family, like yours, fled from oppression and found a safe haven in Canada.

And I am grateful for this opportunity to meet with you, and though our time together is very short, there is much I would like to ask you about.

I admire your courage in having left a successful career as an academic in Canada to help your country of origin.

And we must also underline the fact that Latvia has made impressive strides under your leadership.

Economic growth has been impressive, as your nation changed from a state-controlled economy to a free-market system. A daunting challenge indeed.

You have helped consolidate the rule of law, accountability, and transparency in your political system.

Under your leadership, Latvia also joined the organizations I mentioned earlier and will soon welcome the first NATO Summit in what was once territory ruled by the Soviet Union.

You have played a central role in strengthening Latvia’s ties with other nations, building good relationships with Russia, the countries of the EU, the United States, Ukraine, Canada, and many others.

Indeed, given your diplomatic skills, it is not surprising that the UN Secretary-General gave you a mandate as Special Envoy on UN Reform!

Therefore, when one looks at your record of achievement, one can see that the future is full of promise for Latvia.

I am reminded of the words you once spoke: [translation] “There is a great need in my country for each of its citizens to be able to respect humanity for itself, both its own and that of others.” These words, your vision of the future for the people of Latvia, spoke directly to my heart.

I am pleased that Canada and Latvia are working together as partners in many areas. For example, both Latvian and Canadian military personnel are serving in Afghanistan, fighting injustice and oppression.

And finally, the trade between our two countries has grown dramatically since 1994, going from less than $3 million per year to $50 million in 2005.

And I would certainly be remiss if I did not mention a cultural connection, namely the visit to Canada by the great violinist Gidons Kremers, born in Riga, accompanied by the young musicians of Kremerata Baltica, who delighted Canadian fans at the Festival de Lanaudière.

I’m sure that, as you embark on this official visit, there will be many opportunities to explore other ways that Latvians and Canadians can help each other, for mutual benefit.

But now I must conclude.

There is an old Latvian proverb that says: “A smiling face is half the meal.” There are many smiling faces here today—the faces of friends who have come together to celebrate the bonds that unite two great countries.

Let us enjoy this meal together and think about the friendship that unites Canada and Latvia.

Ladies and gentlemen, please join me in raising your glasses in a toast. To our friendship. May it last as long as the sun shines!