OTTAWA, ONTARIO -- (Marketwired) -- 06/21/14 -- My wife, Sharon, and I are pleased to extend greetings and best wishes to all Canadians on the occasion of National Aboriginal Day.

The First Nations, Inuit and Metis peoples of Canada possess a remarkable variety of rich and distinct traditions, customs and languages. As governor general, I believe diversity is one of this country's greatest strengths, and our multiculturalism echoes the diverse Aboriginal cultures of this land. In this and in so many other ways, the First peoples of Canada have made and will continue to make essential contributions to our shared well-being.

I encourage all Canadians to learn more about First Nations, Inuit and Metis cultures today and throughout the year. Let us all-Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal alike-continue to seek ways to work together in a spirit of partnership and co-operation.

David Johnston

National Aboriginal Day is celebrated every year on June 21.

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