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We are fortunate to be here together today. This year marks 50 years since the G7 process began - five decades of cooperation among members.

Commissionaires guard the infrastructure of this country. You contribute to our security through digital fingerprinting, cyber protection, and surveillance.

When we gather at Rideau Hall, we are reminded of our shared values: of respect, compassion, and hope.

We all seek out spaces to be our authentic selves.

In Canada, we stand for respect. We stand for an equal and compassionate society, where everyone belongs.

As Governor General and His Majesty’s representative in Canada, I extend a warm welcome to delegates from across the Commonwealth.

Twenty-six years ago, the creation of Nunavut Day marked a milestone in our lives and in our culture.

Canada is advancing on a journey of reconciliation.

Thank you for showing us what’s possible when we come together—united by purpose, and driven by excellence, team spirit and integrity.

Congratulations on your new appointments, heads of mission from Costa Rica, Indonesia, Mauritania and the Philippines.

The Order of Canada is more than a recognition of past achievements. It’s a call to keep reaching higher, to keep driving positive change in your communities—so we can grow stronger in the face of whatever lies ahead.

Welcome to our new heads of mission from Belgium, Haiti, Norway, Ukraine, India and Serbia.

Across Canada, organizations are recognizing Indigenous knowledge as a vital part of science—colleges, universities, research centres, businesses, institutions and governmental organizations like Polar Knowledge Canada.

In 2010, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission sparked a national awakening, as Survivors bravely shared their truths about residential schools.

Ten years ago, hundreds of children and youth, along with residential school Survivors, gathered here on the grounds of Rideau Hall, to plant paper hearts.

Today, as we raise this flag, we remember the Indigenous children who were sent to residential schools and never came home.

It is an honour to present you these Meritorious Service Decorations and Decoration for Bravery.

We are meeting to express profound gratitude to members of the Canadian Armed Forces who sacrificed their lives to make the world a safer place.

Today, it is with great pride that I become an honorary member of the Royal 22e Régiment.

This is a time of challenges and threats, but also one of possibilities and hope.