Working visit in Haiti: Official Welcome by the President His Excellency René Préval

Upon their arrival in the Republic of Haiti for a working visit, Their Excellencies the Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean, Governor General of Canada, and her husband Jean-Daniel Lafond were welcomed by the President of the Republic of Haiti His Excellency René Préval at the Aéroport international Toussaint Louverture, in Port-au-Prince.

Following their private meeting, Her Excellency and the President of the Republic of Haiti delivered statements to the press. At the request of the Prime Minister of Canada, the Governor General of Canada is travelling to the Republic of Haiti for a working visit, from January 15 to 18, 2009.

The purpose of this visit is to support the Haitian population as it struggles through a food crisis that was worsened by the hurricanes and tropical storms that ravaged the country.

This visit will highlight the efforts being made by the Government of Canada and the introduction of several humanitarian aid projects in the disaster areas of Les Cayes and Ennery, near Gonaïves.

During her statement, Her Excellency explained the purpose of her working visit in Haiti. On behalf of the Canadian people, she wants to witness the progress of aid efforts, as a sign of solidarity with the Haitian people, and to assure them of Canada’s unfailing support.