Visit of the President of the Republic of Chile
Their Excellencies welcomed His Excellency Sebastián Piñera, President of the Republic of Chile, and his spouse, Mrs. Cecilia Morel, to Rideau Hall, on May 30 and 31, 2013, on the occasion of their State visit to Canada.
Thu, 05/30/2013 - 12:00 MCpl Vincent Carbonneau, Rideau Hall GG2013-0277-002
The President and his spouse had the opportunity to meet with members of the Chilean community.
Thu, 05/30/2013 - 12:00 MCpl Vincent Carbonneau, Rideau Hall GG2013-0277-001
Their Excellencies bid farewell to the President and the First Lady.
Thu, 05/30/2013 - 12:00 MCpl Vincent Carbonneau, Rideau Hall GG2013-0282-002
On the morning of May 31, the Governor General hosted a round-table discussion on the role of learning and innovation in strengthening ties between peoples, institutions and nations. He was joined by the President, as well as participants from Canada and Chile.
Thu, 05/30/2013 - 12:00 MCpl Vincent Carbonneau, Rideau Hall GG2013-0281-001
That evening, in honour of the President’s visit to Canada, Their Excellencies hosted a State dinner at Rideau Hall.
Thu, 05/30/2013 - 12:00 MCpl Vincent Carbonneau, Rideau Hall GG2013-0280-002
During the dinner, His Excellency offered a toast to Canada and Chile's friendship.
Thu, 05/30/2013 - 12:00 MCpl Vincent Carbonneau, Rideau Hall GG2013-0280-001
As they walked back to the residence, His Excellency and the President continued their conversation.
Thu, 05/30/2013 - 12:00 MCpl Vincent Carbonneau, Rideau Hall GG2013-0279-004
Later, the President and his spouse planted a tree on the grounds of Rideau Hall to commemorate their State visit to Canada. The tree is a red maple, chosen to symbolize the close links between both countries.
Thu, 05/30/2013 - 12:00 MCpl Vincent Carbonneau, Rideau Hall GG2013-0279-002
The Governor General then met with the President to discuss topics of interest to Canada and Chile.
Thu, 05/30/2013 - 12:00 MCpl Vincent Carbonneau, Rideau Hall GG2013-0278-001
The President of the Republic of Chile conducted an inspection of a guard of honour.
Thu, 05/30/2013 - 12:00 MCpl Vincent Carbonneau, Rideau Hall GG2013-0277-007
An official welcoming ceremony, with military honours, was held on the grounds.
Thu, 05/30/2013 - 12:00 MCpl Vincent Carbonneau, Rideau Hall GG2013-0277-005
"As close friends and partners in the Americas, your arrival is cause for celebration," said the Governor General. "Despite the geographic distance that separates our two countries, we have a great deal in common. Canadians and Chileans share a common vision—one in which democracy, human rights and justice prevail."
Thu, 05/30/2013 - 12:00 Rideau Hall GG2013-0277-010