Rideau Hall, Wednesday, April 25, 2007

Mister President, I am honoured and very pleased to welcome you to Rideau Hall.

I know that all my fellow citizens join me in offering this warm welcome, but I have no doubt that the over 250,000 Canadians of Hungarian background are especially pleased with your visit.

Hungarians have given a great deal to Canada; through their hard work they have helped make this one of the most prosperous countries in the world. And thanks to their distinctive cultural and linguistic heritage, Hungarian Canadians have added an essential element to Canada’s unique culture.

I have no doubt that this vibrant community is one of the main reasons why our two countries are working closely together on so many levels.

In addition to our strong and growing trading relationship, Canada and Hungary are also partners in many multilateral organizations. We have concluded several formal treaties and agreements, and are increasing the number of cultural exchanges between our two nations.

Moreover, I was very happy to learn that Canadian studies are becoming more and more popular in Hungary. I have been told that you have nine Canadian Studies Programmes and six Canadian Studies Centres. I cannot think of a better way to foster greater understanding between our two peoples.

Your State Visit is also an opportunity for us to further this worthwhile dialogue.

There is so much I would like to ask you. As an eminent scholar and a man who played a central role in fostering democracy in Hungary, I look forward to getting your perspective on Canada’s system of laws, where common law and civil law are both held in high regard, and where the concept of equality among all citizens is firmly enshrined in our constitution.

And given your background as an environmentalist, and your initiative of creating a network of “Green Presidents” in Europe, I hope we may discuss how our two countries can work together with the international community to safeguard the earth’s fragile environment.

I’m sure you will agree that there is so much to discuss, and so little time.

And so, Mr. President, let me close by wishing you a very enjoyable stay in our country.

I know, Mr. President, that you are an avid hiker and I hope that you will have an opportunity to enjoy our rich landscape while you are in Canada.

And, most of all, may this visit add to the spirit of friendship and goodwill that has always been the hallmark of the relationship between Hungary and Canada.

We are delighted to have you here.

Thank you.