Louise Arbour installed as Canada’s 31st governor general

Louise Arbour was installed Monday as Canada’s 31st governor general at a ceremony in Ottawa, taking office at a time of political tension and debate over national unity. In her first remarks, Arbour called on Canadians to listen to one another and warned that both polarization and forced agreement can weaken public life. She also said the country must protect institutions and spaces where debate and disagreement can happen openly. Arbour said rapid technological change, including artificial intelligence, could blur the line between facts and falsehoods and urged Canadians to stay vigilant. Prime Minister Mark Carney described the governor general’s office as a symbol of unity and praised Arbour’s long career in law, human rights and public service. The ceremony also included tributes to outgoing governor general Mary Simon and performances from Canadian artists.