A time of reflection

We’re into that final pre-Xmas flurry of activity, and I’m sure you’re all frantically getting ready for the holiday season. I know I am, and I’m ashamed to say that I’ve bought most of my Christmas presents online this year, which removes some of the romance of shopping, but makes life a lot easier!

But whilst we rapidly approach the end of 2012, it’s worth taking a moment to reflect on what’s been a remarkable year in many ways for the UK in Canada.  A few particular events stand out: one, our London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, which captured people’s imaginations here in Canada as much as they did in the UK. We showed the Olympic opening ceremony here at the High Commission, and then shared in the joy and pain of British and Canadian athletes as the games went on.

Secondly, the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee – a celebration that we shared with Canada. It was great to see the Governor General and Prime Minister Harper at the celebration, and to see the Canadian canoe brave the torrential rain to do Canada proud in the Thames Pageant. We also launched the GREAT campaign across Canada, celebrating British creativity, business, innovation, sport etc in events ranging from a flash-mob at Vancouver airport, to street performers in Toronto. I was proud to be part of that launch. And in September Foreign Minister John Baird welcomed our Foreign Secretary, William Hague, to Canada – the first bilateral visit by a Foreign Secretary in 16 years. The two Ministers agreed a solid programme of joint working, putting what was already a strong, historical political relationship on a modern and dynamic footing.

And last but by no means least; we upgraded our Trade Office in Calgary to a full-blown Consulate General, in recognition of the growing importance of the UK-Alberta relationship, on both a political and a commercial level.

It’s not all been good, of course. Events in the Middle East and Syria in particular have been, and continue to be a grave cause for concern – and it’s heartbreaking to see the ongoing suffering of families there. And we have faced serious economic challenges in the UK and in Europe, which will continue to be a key focus for the Government next year.

And looking ahead, what else does 2013 have in store for us? Another big year for the UK, with our Presidency of the G8. We’ll be focussing the agenda issues that will generate jobs, growth and prosperity, and working closely with Canada in delivering that agenda. I am also confident that we will see conclusion of the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) between the EU and Canada early in the New Year, bringing new commercial opportunities to British and Canadian businesses.  And I, and my team, will continue to promote ties between Canada and the UK at every level.

So, a lot to look forward to. But in the meantime, I wish you all, and your families, a very happy Christmas, and a safe and prosperous 2013.