Address by Minister Dion on the occasion of a tree-planting ceremony in Latvia

Speech

July 11, 2016 – Riga, Latvia

Check against delivery. This speech has been translated in accordance with the Government of Canada’s official languages policy and edited for posting and distribution in accordance with its communications policy.

I am honoured, on behalf of the Government of Canada, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and all Canadians, to plant this maple tree as a symbol of the enduring friendship between Canada and Latvia.

The maple symbolizes the commonality between our two northern countries, and especially our mutual love of nature. Our countries are both lands of lakes and rivers and forests.

In spring, Latvians and Canadians tap the maple for its sweet syrup.

In summer, we retreat to the countryside to swim and fish, enjoy the long evenings and sing by bonfires.

In autumn, the maple has the brightest of the red leaves in Sigulda, outside of Riga, just as red as the maple leaves are in the Gatineau Hills, outside of Ottawa.

And in winter, we both turn to ice hockey with passion and national pride.

I know that our Canadian soldiers, who will arrive soon to lead the NATO reassurance mission, will feel at home through all four seasons—although our Canadian winter is a little colder.

In planting this maple, let us reflect on the profound roots of our friendship.

When it was time to recognize Latvia in January 1921, Canada answered the call.

When it was time to NOT recognize the Soviet annexation of Latvia in 1940, Canada answered the call.

When it was time to be the first G7 country to recognize Latvia’s restored independence in 1991, Canada answered the call.

When it was time to be one of the first countries to ratify Latvia’s accession to NATO in 1994, Canada answered the call.

When it was time to support Latvia’s accession to the OECD in May 2016, Canada answered the call.

When it IS time to convince the other countries of the European Union to ratify the mutually beneficial and progressive trade agreement between the EU and Canada, we know Latvia will answer the call.

And today, when the time comes to demonstrate our resolve and our determination to defend every square centimetre of the NATO Alliance, Canada affirms, here in Riga, here in Latvia, that we answer the call.

When a large neighbouring country chooses to throw its weight around ‎and cause trouble for international order and stability, Latvia and Canada, together with all of our NATO allies, answer the call.

When it is time to demonstrate our unwavering friendship with Ukraine, especially when Ukraine is confronted directly with aggression by this same neighbour, Latvia and Canada answer the call.

Canada is proud to be the Framework Nation in Latvia‎ as part of NATO’s “Enhanced Forward Presence.”

Yes, Canada, as a friend, as an ally, as a guest, has always and will always answer the call.

And so, to the future of our two countries, as Latvian hockey fans say when they are cheering their team: “Sa-row! Sa-row!”

Contacts

Chantal Gagnon
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs
343-203-1851
chantal.gagnon@international.gc.ca

Media Relations Office
Global Affairs Canada
343-203-7700
media@international.gc.ca
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Hon. Stéphane Dion Global Affairs Canada Government and Politics