Rideau Hall, Friday, June 7, 2013

It is a pleasure for me to welcome all of you to Rideau Hall. I often call this place the home of the people of Canada. For all of you heading out to represent our country, I know that a piece of home will travel with you.

Having just returned last month from visits to Ghana, Botswana, South Africa and the United States, I know the importance not only of international relations, but also of the people who are building those relations.

We put our trust and faith in you, and in turn, you ably represent us abroad. Canada is one of the most trusted nations in the world, and in part, that is because of the wonderful work being done in our missions around the world.

In accepting this posting, you are committing to expanding our bonds with others and to promoting Canada abroad. From innovation to education, from business to culture and the arts, there is so much this country has to offer the international community. And it is through you that people will find a gateway to Canada.

That gateway is an important one for Canadian expatriates looking for support from home. It is important for potential immigrants who look to Canada as a nation of opportunity for themselves and their families. It is important to students who are looking to study abroad. It is important to businesses looking for new countries in which to invest. And it is important to Canada’s future, to our place in an increasingly globalized world.

You are representing Canadians, certainly, but also the Canadian ideals that we hold dear. And I know that all of you will excel.

Of course, you shoulder a great deal of responsibility as heads of mission, but beyond that, this posting is the beginning of a journey, an adventure, not just for you, but your families as well.

I hope that you take full advantage of being in new surroundings. There is so much to discover, so many people to meet, so many different foods and customs and languages to experience. The world is a vast mosaic, yet we can all find common ground, no matter our differences.

Explore your new home, absorb the atmosphere, take part in the community and contribute to the country’s success. Show the world that Canadians are serving not just our own interests, but the interests of our host countries as well.

As you leave this country, we have every confidence that you will bring honour to Canada. I am proud that you will be representing this great nation.

I wish you bon voyage and good luck as you assume your new role. 

Thank you.