September 13, 2024

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Hello, 

I would like to welcome all of you to Rideau Hall, which sits on the unceded territory of the Algonquin Anishinaabe peoples.

Land acknowledgements are a way to show respect to Indigenous peoples who have been here for thousands of years. Gestures like these are acts of reconciliation that can lead to greater understanding and respect between peoples.

Congratulations to all of you on your new roles.

Congratulations on your new roles, ambassadors and high commissioners from Cameroon, Sri Lanka, Türkiye, Germany, Denmark and Bangladesh.

Today’s ceremony is a reminder of the importance of strong diplomatic ties. It reaffirms our commitment to working together to address our most pressing global issues.

I am a former diplomat and ambassador myself.

And in all the roles I had throughout my career, I think the most powerful thing I could do was to tell my own story.

Whenever I shared stories of real-life experiences in Nunavik, in northern Canada, and the challenges my community was facing, doors would open.

People would start sharing their own stories. About their fears, their pride and their hopes for their children.

Human connection starts with sharing our stories and speaking our truth.

The stories we share open doors.

I know, ambassadors and high commissioners, that you already have great stories to tell.

Let us share what our countries are experiencing. Let us share our expertise and knowledge.

What unites us is more powerful than our differences.

What unites us is more powerful than our differences.

We must ask ourselves: how can we work together to create a greener, safer, more peaceful future for our youth?

Again this year, the world has experienced several record-breaking temperatures. Communities are suffering major losses due to more frequent, devastating wildfires, flooding and heatwaves. Climate change is putting a strain on our infrastructure, our economies and our food systems.

And, sadly, the most vulnerable people in our societies are the most affected.

More than ever, we must continue working together across borders to support strong global climate action.

Also, as divisions and conflict are shaking societies worldwide, we must continue defending human rights and fighting all forms of discrimination together.

When we truly empower diversity, when we choose inclusion, the world is stronger for it.

Recently, I had the honour of attending the Paralympic Games in Paris. I can tell you that Paralympians are living proof of what humanity can accomplish when everyone can aspire to excellence.

To all families here today: thank you for supporting your loved ones as they do this important work.

Moving to a new country can be challenging. But I am confident you will soon be finding your way around. You will start writing some new stories of your own.

Share your stories and listen to Canadians. You will learn so much about our country through theirs.

Welcome to Canada!