TRANSFER OF AUTHORITY CEREMONY
TALKING POINTS
INCOMING ROCK - KEN LEWIS
Check against delivery
There has never been a time in Canada's history when our military and civilian operations have had to work so closely - so coherently - towards one common goal...reconstruction.
I am very much looking forward to being a part of this.
Elissa, you have laid the groundwork here in Kandahar, and I thank you for that.
My previous post as Minister (Commercial),where I was heading the Commercial and Economic Program at the Canadian Embassy in Beijing, China, and the roles I have played in Canada’s APEC participation has provided my with the tools I will need. Though I recognize that my experiences here will be unlike any other posting in the world.
I am also incredibly grateful for the extensive training opportunities I have been provided with over the past months with the next command team of Task Force Kandahar and with all of the Canadian federal departments represented here.
Never before has a diplomat been so well prepared.
I look forward to continuing the strong partnership that has been established with General Thompson and his team and I look forward to continuing this relationship with General Vance and his team in the next rotation.
I begin my post as we begin a relationship with the new governor Kandahar, Tooryalai Wesa. Governor Wesa I look forward to our working relationship and with our many colleagues here in Kanadahar province.
Commanders, Ambassadors and Representatives are named to their positions by their superiors. But they are recognized as leaders by the people in their command or line of authority.
I am inheriting a strong team of civilian officials. You are dedicated, accomplished individuals and leaders in your own right.
To my new colleagues – Afghan, CF and international partners – 2009 will be a big year in many ways and I look forward to our future prospects together.
Thank you all for being here today and for the warm welcome I have received.
