The new Permanent Representative of Canada to the Organization of American States (OAS), André François Giroux, presented his credentials to OAS Secretary General Albert R. Ramdin during a ceremony held today at the Organization's headquarters in Washington, DC.
In his remarks, Ambassador François Giroux said, "Here in the Americas, we feel that the OAS definitely has a role to play." He also emphasized: "We need to be able to demonstrate not only to the member states, but also to our citizens, that the OAS has the right tools to strengthen democracy, uphold human rights, foster security, and advance integral development."
For his part, Secretary General Ramdin said: "Canada has demonstrated a sustained commitment to this Organization and its goals and purpose, bringing diplomatic engagement, technical expertise, and financial resources to our collective efforts." Addressing the ambassador, he added, "With your appointment, Canada continues the valued tradition of engagement with this Organization and with the peoples of the Americas."
The new Canadian Representative is a career diplomat and holds a law degree. He has served as ambassador to Denmark and Haiti, consul general in Sydney, and diplomatic representative at the United Nations and in France.
Reference: FNE-145163
