Whitehorse, Monday, June 18, 2007

My husband, Jean-Daniel Lafond, and I are thrilled to meet up with you here in the Far North.

This is my third visit north of 60 since my installation as Governor General of Canada.

It is a great privilege to be here, as we know that very few Canadians have the opportunity to visit the Far North, despite the fact that it is the largest part of our country.

And that is such a shame, because this part of our country is filled with treasures, from its magnificent landscapes to its rich Aboriginal cultures and clever people, which this tour will enable you to discover.

It is also an opportunity to learn about many of the issues facing today’s Canada.

For example, the sovereignty of our Arctic lands, the development of our natural resources, and the effects of global warming on northern ecosystems, as well as the well-being of isolated communities, the vitality of communities, and dialogue and solidarity for greater social cohesion.

Many of these issues are global problems.

And it is encouraging that heads of mission in Canada, from all backgrounds, are able to take in the full expanse and demographic diversity of our country.

In Yukon lives on that spirit of adventure that gave rise to the birth of Canada as a country and that continues to be our greatest strength.

My husband and I hope that you will make the most of this trip to Canada’s North. And we hope that this meeting will be an opportunity to begin a dialogue on issues that concern us all.

The North is not only where the compass needle points, but here, in Canada, it is also where Nature has remained mostly intact and asserted its rights.

We have too often carelessly abused Nature and taken it for granted.

We should remember that every inch of this planet enriches humanity’s natural heritage.

As you come to know this land and the cultures that inhabit it, you will see where the history of the Americas began.

I encourage you to explore that history.

I wish you the very best as you continue on your northern tour.

May you be filled with wonder at every stage of your journey.