Rideau Hall, Wednesday, September 24, 2014

My wife, Sharon, and I are pleased to welcome you to Rideau Hall, the home of the people of Canada.

On behalf of all Canadians: Willkommen in Kanada! (Vil-KOMM-en in Canada)

Your arrival is truly a cause for celebration. Even in an era of instant, global communication, there is no substitute for meeting in person to reaffirm our friendship and to discuss new ideas and possibilities for partnership.

Canadians and Germans share common values and work towards many of the same goals, including democracy, human rights and justice. We desire prosperity and security for the many, not just the few. We aspire to build smart and caring societies in which government, business, civil society and academia all work together.

Canada and Germany enjoy many cultural, economic, academic and political ties. We work together as strong partners on the international stage.

We also have close people-to-people ties. In fact, some 3.2 million Canadians report having some “German” ethnicity!

During your visit, you will meet with Canadians from a variety of backgrounds. Many are leaders in their respective fields. You will discuss the themes of innovation, integration and immigration—all subjects of great significance to both Germany and to Canada.

Your visit to Canada also coincides with a number of important milestones: the 100th anniversary of the start of the First World War and the 75th anniversary of the beginning of the Second World War.

Let us therefore also take this opportunity to join in solemn remembrance and reflection on the terrible cost of war.

Canada views Germany as an important partner, and I thank you for coming all this way to visit our country. I am certain that your time here will help to strengthen the relationship between our two countries.

I hope your visit is successful and productive.

Thank you.