Presentation of Letters of Credence

His Excellency Agustín García-López Loaeza, Ambassador of the United Mexican States, was the first to present his letters of credence to the Governor General.

He was followed by Her Excellency Anne Kari Hansen Ovind, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Norway.

Next was Her Excellency Aminahtun Binti A. Karim, High Commissioner for Malaysia.

She was followed by Her Excellency Marica Matkovic, Ambassador of the Republic of Croatia.

His Excellency Mai Sayavongs, Ambassador of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic was the last to present his letters of credence to the Governor General.

His Excellency the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General of Canada, received the letters of credence of five new heads of mission.

"Today is a celebration of friendship. Each of you is here representing your country and your people, and your objectives here in Canada are twofold. First, you will be searching for new opportunities to work together with Canadians. Second, you will be sharing with us your heritage, your society and your history," said His Excellency.

Upon their arrival in Canada, and before they can carry out their duties as heads of mission, new ambassadors, as well as new high commissioners of countries for which Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II is not head of State, must be officially welcomed by the governor general of Canada. High commissioners representing countries for which The Queen is the head of State are formally introduced to the prime minister of Canada.

Letters of credence are the official documents by which new heads of diplomatic missions are presented by their head of State as their official representative. Currently, there are more than 170 heads of diplomatic missions accredited to Canada.