December 3, 20225

Check against delivery

It is an honour to welcome you here, on the unceded territory of the Algonquin Anishinaabe Nation, who has cared for these lands for thousands of years.

Today, we extend a heartfelt welcome to our new heads of mission from Timor-Leste, Iceland, Montenegro and the Central African Republic.

You are coming to Canada at the close of 2025, at a time when the world is experiencing profound upheaval.

International collaboration has never been more essential.

Today, I encourage you to embrace that spirit of co‑operation, despite winter’s chill.

Our nations have worked together to advance global peace and security.

We have fostered an inclusive global trading system grounded in openness and transparency.

Let us continue this important work.

I also encourage you to embrace every opportunity to connect with communities across Canada.

In doing so, you will discover the remarkable diversity of Canadian cultures.

It is this spirit of curiosity that builds the bridges of collaboration and mutual understanding our world so urgently needs.

We are all connected. The well-being of one nation shapes the well-being of others.

I grew up in northern Canada, in the small community of Kuujjuaq, Nunavik, where winter settles in much earlier.

From a very young age, I learned to recognize the deep interdependence between people, animals, climate and the land.

This is the foundation of the strong sense of community in Inuit culture.

Excellencies, I hope the same spirit of collaboration inspires your work here.

Welcome to Canada.