December 1, 2008
OTTAWA-Her Excellency the Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean, Governor General of Canada, arrived in the Czech Republic on Saturday, November 29, 2008, for a five-day visit as part of her State visit to four European countries.
Upon their arrival, the Governor General and His Excellency Jean-Daniel Lafond visited the Muzeum romské kultury (Museum of Romani Culture) to learn more about the history, arts and culture of the Roma. They also engaged in a discussion on the revival of Romani art with contemporary Roma artists.
Earlier today, the Governor General met with His Excellency Václav Klaus, President of the Czech Republic, at Prague Castle, to discuss relations between both countries. Today's other highlights included a meeting with the Honourable Přenysk Sobotka, President of the Senate of the Parliament; a meeting with His Worship Pavel Bém, Lord Mayor of the City of Prague; a meeting with the Honourable Miloslav Vlček, Chairman of the House of Deputies; and a State dinner hosted by the President of the Czech Republic.
Governor General's Youth Dialogue on Civic Engagement – Tuesday December 2, 2008
The Governor General will host a Youth Dialogue with Czech youths from all walks of life on Tuesday, December 2, 2008, at 3:30 p.m. (local time), in Prague. The discussion will focus on the civic engagement of youth and how they can act as agents of change locally, nationally and internationally.
During her State visit to the Republic of Hungary, the Governor General hosted a Youth Dialogue at the Kesztyügyár Community Centre in Budapest, to discuss challenges faced by youth in Hungary and in Canada, and the programs that are in place to address these challenges.
For more information on the State visit to the Czech Republic, please visit www.gg.ca.
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To download photos and the video of the statements from the President of the Czech Republic and the Governor General, please visit www.combatcamera.ca/gg.
Media information
Marie-Ève Létourneau or Lucie Caron
Rideau Hall Press Office
613-998-0287 or 613-993-8158
www.gg.ca
www.citizenvoices.gg.ca
