Ottawa – My wife, Sharon, and I extend our warmest congratulations to the Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean, who will lead the International Organisation of La Francophonie as secretary general.
Madame Jean thus becomes the first woman and the first Canadian to fill this role. We are confident that she will fervently and passionately defend not only the French language and culture, but also respect for the shared values of peace, democracy and human rights that have solidified the belonging of each nation in La Francophonie. She already showed her commitment to these causes during her tenure as governor general of Canada, from 2005–10.
We join with all Canadians in wishing Madame Jean every success as she begins a new chapter in her professional life on the international stage. We know that she will bring the Member States of La Francophonie together while re-energizing the organization.
David Johnston
-30-
Julie Rocheleau
Rideau Hall Press Office
613-998-7280
julie.rocheleau@gg.ca
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