Archives - Jean Chrétien

At a Ceremony Inaugurating the new United States Embassy in Canada

I understand that this is the first time a President of the United States has attended a ceremony to open a new American embassy. We are honoured that you have chosen to make history here in Ottawa. Your presence, once again, in Ottawa is a sign to Canadians of the respect you have for our nation. Of the value you place in our friendship.

The location of the new embassy is itself a sign. It shares much in common with ours in Washington. Both are in prime locations. With spectacular views of our capitals. Both are right across the street from our national galleries of art. There could be no more lasting symbol of the abiding warmth of our relationship at the turn of the new century. One that has evolved considerably since your former embassy complex was opened in 1932.

Times have changed. But the cornerstones of the Canada-US partnership remain firm. We enjoy the largest trading relationship in the world, by far. But our relationship runs much deeper than business. We share the longest undefended border in the world. But our partnership is much more than an accident of geography.

It is steeped in common values. In a shared love of freedom. A shared respect for human rights, the rule of law, diversity and tolerance. For the free flow of ideas.

Mutual understanding and respect are the product of our history. We each have the confidence to chart our own ways. To strike our own balance among the values that we share. In the ways that we foster them at home and project them in the world.

This is a day to celebrate a new beginning in an old friendship. A friendship that you have done much to nurture Mr. President. But I think this is also a fitting place to pay special tribute to the enormous contribution you have made, personally, to world peace.

It is a fitting place because your new embassy, a centre for diplomacy, looks out on our national monument to peacekeeping. As you know, peacekeeping is a concept that Canada pioneered. A skill that we have honed in practice. And a cause that is dear to our hearts.

Time and again, Mr. President. In the Middle East. In Haiti. In Ireland. You have brought people together. Turned them away from the false promise of violence. Built harmony and trust in places that have known only discord and suspicion.

On behalf of the people of Canada. I salute you. I consider you not only a friend and partner. But a statesman of the first rank. Peace and reconciliation will be your legacy to the world.

I thank you, again, for being here. And congratulations on this fine new embassy.