State Dinner in Honour of Their Majesties the Emperor and Empress of Japan

Their Excellencies the Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean, Governor General of Canada, and Mr. Jean-Daniel Lafond with the Emperor and Empress of Japan before the State dinner held in honour of Their Majesties at Rideau Hall.

In the backdrop is the painting entitled, Mer bleue, by Canadian Artist Jim Reid. Their Majesties visited the Mer bleue bog in Ottawa during their stay in Canada’s Capital Region.

The evening commenced with a performance by Ms. Celina Cada-Matasawagon, a traditional Hoop Dancer.

“The people of Canada could not have hoped for a greater honour than the visit to Canada by Their Majesties the Emperor and Empress of Japan to mark this important date in the history of our two countries and to underscore the depth and strength of our ties that overcame the conflicts and intolerance that cast a shadow over the last century.” At the end of her remarks, the Governor General proposed a toast: “Long live the friendship between Japan and Canada! Long live Their Majesties the Emperor and Empress of Japan!” (excerpt from Her Excellency’s speech at the opening of the State dinner).

The Emperor of Japan delivered a speech on the occasion of the State Dinner, at Rideau Hall in which he stated: “In today’s world, it has become increasingly important that Japan and Canada continue to work together in order to ensure the peace and prosperity of the international community. I would like to pay my deep respect to the dedicated efforts that Canada has made in contributing to the United Nations Peace-keeping Operations and other international peace-building activities. I would also like to express my heartfelt condolences to those who lost their lives during those activities.”

In preparation for the State Dinner, Executive Chef Louis Charest adds the finishing touches to his masterpiece.

Guests enjoyed a performance by Canadian pianist and composer, Mr. Alain Lefèvre, who performed on the Glenn Gould piano in the Long Gallery.

The Governor General and Mr. Jonathan T. Fried, Ambassador of Canada to Japan (third from right), in company of former Ambassadors of Canada to Japan.