Governor General to participate in United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (UNPFII) in New York City

April 17, 2026

OTTAWA, Ontario-Her Excellency the Right Honourable Mary Simon, Governor General of Canada, will participate in the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (UNPFII), where she will deliver remarks on April 20, 2026.

The participation of Canada's first Indigenous governor general in this important forum will underscore our country's enduring commitment to reconciliation and the implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. Her Excellency's presence will affirm Canada's leadership in advancing Indigenous rights both domestically and globally, highlighting the importance of meaningful Indigenous engagement and reinforcing the value of strong, respectful relationships between Indigenous Peoples and states.

ITINERARY

Note: times are indicated in Eastern Daylight Time (EDT).

Monday, April 20

11:00 a.m.
UNPFII opening session
The Governor General will deliver a keynote address at the formal opening of the UNPFII's 25^th session.
UN General Assembly Hall
OPEN TO ACCREDITED MEDIA

1:15 p.m.
Canada side event: UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) as a Determinant of Health
The Governor General will attend the Canada-hosted panel, moderated by Senator Margo Greenwood, which will serve as a platform for examining the implementation of UNDRIP as a critical framework for Indigenous health and well-being.
UN Headquarters, Conference Room 4
OPEN TO ACCREDITED MEDIA

3:30 p.m.
Meeting with UN Secretary-General
The Governor General will meet with UN Secretary-General António Guterres to discuss shared values.
UN Headquarters, Secretary-General's Boardroom
PHOTO OPPORTUNITY FOR ACCREDITED MEDIA

Notes for media:

• For information on accreditation please visit: https://www.un.org/en/media/accreditation/request.shtml
• Photos taken by the Governor General's official photographer can be made available upon request.

Related links

• UNPFII Twenty-Fifth Session

Media information:
Rideau Hall Press Office
[email protected]

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