OTTAWA — Canadians should continue sending a message of hope and peace to people around the world, and close to home, Canada’s Governor General said.
In his first New Year’s message in the vice-regal position, Governor General David Johnston said he feels a sense of hope for 2011. The text of the message was released Tuesday for publication.
Johnston said Canadians should be inspired by the work soldiers and civilians are doing in Afghanistan.
“We think of them and the civilians working at their side to build a better society,” he said.
He witnessed it first hand during a visit to Afghanistan in the early days of his mandate.
“I saw a lot of despair, but I also saw Canadians helping and contributing their talents,” Johnston said in his address.
Johnston said rebuilding schools and ensuring peace are keys to helping build the Afghan society.
Canadians also have a great deal to celebrate as 2010 draws to a close, including the success of the 2010 Winter Olympics, Johnston said.
But he urged Canadians not to rest on their laurels.
“As we embark on a new year, let us not forget our neighbour in need,” he said.
“Let us all work together towards a smarter and more caring nation.”
Johnston was sworn in as Governor General in October.
One of his first duties was revoking the military commission of Russell Williams, a former colonel convicted of brutally murdering two women.