Rideau Hall, Thursday, June 2, 2016

I’m so pleased to welcome all of you to Rideau Hall.

I call this place the home of the people of Canada.

Today, we bid all of you a bon voyage from your home as you embark on the grandest of adventures:

Representing Canada abroad;

Promoting Canadian interests;

Learning about other cultures;

Immersing yourselves in different societies.

But what will you tell those countries about Canada?

Where to start?!

Earlier this week, I returned from a visit to the southern and southwestern United States. I spoke to Americans about our economy, our compassion, our innovation and our education.

We’re the number one trading partner with many of these states, and have strong ties in other areas as well.

And I was delighted to discover how much we’re learning from others and how much we’re collaborating.

More than that, though, I was interested to see where there is potential for growth.

That’s where your role becomes so vital.

You will be identifying the areas in which Canada and your host country can help each other. In doing so, you’re creating a closer relationship between our countries and more opportunities for Canadians to succeed on the world stage.

And I know that you’ll do wonderful things.

During my time as governor general, I’ve seen the good works being done by missions around the world. The teams already in place in these countries are some of the best, Canadians who have left home because they believe they can make a difference.

Today, you join their ranks.

We know more about the world than ever before. And yet, there are still many things we need to understand. And we must understand each other if we are to work together to create a better world.

You are intensively preparing to take on your new role. Yet, you’ve been preparing your whole lives. Every professional experience you’ve had—at home or abroad—has led you to this moment.

As you embark on this adventure, allow me once again to thank you and your families for your service to Canada.

I wish you the very best as you take on your new postings.

Thank you.