November 30, 2014 – The Honourable Christian Paradis, Minister of International Development and La Francophonie, today issued the following statement congratulating Michaëlle Jean, Canada’s former governor general, on becoming Secretary General of La Francophonie:
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank Secretary General Abdou Diouf for his leadership of La Francophonie for 12 years as he brought La Francophonie squarely into the 21st century.
“I am proud of Madame Jean for becoming the first woman leader of La Francophonie. While she was governor general of Canada, Madame Jean demonstrated her passionate commitment to promoting French language and culture, as well as peace, security, democracy, human rights and good governance. I am sure that she will continue to be a champion of these important issues in the 57 member countries of La Francophonie over the next four years. I also believe that she will be able to propel La Francophonie to the forefront of the 21st century. We welcome Madame Jean’s focus on the role of young people and women in achieving sustainable economic growth.
“On behalf of Canada and Canadians, I wish Madame Jean every success in this challenging and exciting new role.”
Maxime Robert
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of International Development and La Francophonie
343-203-6238
maxime.robert@international.gc.ca
Media Relations Office
Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada
343-203-7700
media@international.gc.ca
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