The Citadelle, Quebec, Thursday, February 14, 2013

I would like to welcome all of you to Canada and to the Citadelle for this presentation of credentials. This is certainly a fitting place to discuss the diplomatic futures of our countries.

There is a rich history in this community that offers so many examples of people working together for a better country and a better world.
After all, it was in this city that provincial delegates gathered in 1864 to discuss the possibilities of Confederation itself—a precursor to a united Canada.

The Quebec Conference, which took place at the Old Parliament Building in Montmorency Park—not far from here, in fact—generated concrete proposals on how Canadians could work together for a better future for all.

If we open it up to include today’s globalized world, is the goal of the Quebec Conference so very different from what we hope to achieve, that is, a more harmonious world?

Better and closer relations, people-to-people exchanges and knowledge-sharing, finding new ways to collaborate. These are the modern goals that begin with simple discussion, as was the case in 1864, nearly 150 years ago.

Ambassador Lloreda, it is a pleasure to welcome you to Canada. We both share an interest in the law, and I look forward to discussing with you the ways in which your country’s justice system has evolved.

There is a clear understanding that respect for the rule of law is a fundamental aspect of a fairer, more just society. I hope that our countries can continue working together in this regard.

There is so much potential for a stronger Colombia-Canada relationship. Already we are co-operating in a variety of ways to the benefit of both our peoples. We share knowledge in so many differing fields.

We are invested in each other’s success, both with investment and trade, as well as with the hope for increased security, peace and prosperity for the whole of Latin America. I know that both our countries will gain so much from your experience in the coming months and years as you begin your posting here.

High Commissioner Cole, as a career public servant, you know how important it is to devote your life to a higher cause—in your case, diplomacy.

I hope that, as you assume your new role, you will take the opportunity to travel this country, discover its people and see what we have to offer. You will no doubt find that we are excited to collaborate, to find ways to partner in new and exciting ways that will lead to mutual success, both locally and abroad.

Malta and Canada share common values and a close relationship thanks, in part, to the large Maltese community living in Canada. Our ties, in areas such as trade and the arts, create many chances for our two peoples to work together. Our partnership is one that we greatly value and, as we move forward, we hope to continue to build on our ties, to discover even more ways our countries can share. I look forward to speaking with you about our growing relationship.

Finally, let me thank you both for your service, not just to your own countries, but also to Canada. Diplomacy is a vital part of any nation-to-nation dialogue and we are appreciative that we are able to engage with you—diplomats of experience and resolve—on the issues of today.

Welcome to Canada!