Slavkov, Saturday, November 29, 2008

My husband, Jean-Daniel Lafond, and I are delighted to be here with you, in this magnificent region and castle, where history has sometimes become legend, so greatly has it captured the world’s imagination.

After all, this is where Napoleon gave his famous speech to his soldiers after his victory in the Battle of Austerlitz. “You have adorned your eagles with an everlasting glory,” he told them.

As for me, I will simply say that we are extremely grateful for the welcome you and your fellow citizens have shown us in South Moravia.

We are delighted that this State visit to the Czech Republic has begun in such a beautiful region, as exemplified by the breathtaking Slavkov Castle.

Earlier today, my husband, the members of our delegation and I had a number of productive discussions with some of your fellow citizens.

First, we took part in a discussion on diversity and the role that women must play in public life, at Masaryk University, one of the most important centres for Canadian studies in Central Europe.

I have always considered the free flow of knowledge and cultural curiosity to be the best way to fight prejudice, bring people together and create a world that focuses on sharing and respect.

We then visited the Roma museum and discussed the contribution that the Roma community makes to the cultural enrichment of the Czech Republic and Europe.

I was anxious to learn more about the concerns and aspirations of this community in a Europe that is increasingly open and generous. As José Manuel Barroso, President of the European Commission said at the Canada-European Union Economic Summit last month in the City of Québec, “We need more than just non-discrimination.”

In Canada too, we are always searching for ways to integrate all of our citizens into every sector of society.

I can tell you, Governor, that we have been enriched by what we have seen and heard in your region.

On behalf of the Canadian delegation and my husband, I would like to thank you very much for welcoming us to your region with open arms and for hosting this dinner in our honour.

May South Moravia enjoy a prosperous future, and may the friendship between the Czech Republic and Canada continue to grow for many years to come.