Presentation of Letters of Credence

The Governor General received the letters of credence of six new heads of mission accredited to Canada.

"The diplomatic community in Canada is a unique corps of individuals from countries around the world," said His Excellency. "They share a desire to engage with Canada on a variety of topics. And though we may not always see eye to eye on every issue, we always find a way to work together for the benefit of all our peoples. I’m pleased all of you will be joining this corps today."

His Excellency Kadyr Toktogulov, Ambassador of the Kyrgyz Republic, was the last to present his letters of credence to the Governor General.

His Excellency David John Newman, High Commissioner for the Republic of Botswana, also presented his letters of credence during this ceremony.

He was followed by His Excellency Sooroojdev Phokeer, High Commissioner for the Republic of Mauritius.

Next was His Excellency Abdul Kareem Toma Mehdi Kaab, Ambassador of the Republic of Iraq.

He was followed by His Excellency Pavlos Anastasiades, High Commissioner for the Republic of Cyprus.

His Excellency Sosthène Ngokila, Ambassador of the Gabonese Republic, was the first to present his letters of credence to the Governor General.

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.

The Governor General was joined by the new heads of mission for a group photo.

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.