The Queen has met Canada incoming Governor General at Balmoral for the first time.
Former astronaut, Julie Payette, was announced as the country’s new Governor General earlier this year and will take up her role on October 2nd.
Her Majesty has bestowed several orders on Ms Payette, including an Extraordinary Companion of the Order of Canada.
The 53-year-old, who will become Commander-in-Chief of Canada’s military next month, will also meet Prince Charles later today.
Speaking at the time of her appointment, Ms Payette said: “This is a very great honour for me and my family, for my friends and my colleagues here around the country, on the planet and even a few outside the planet.”
Julie Payette was the first Canadian woman to board the International Space Station back in 1999, and she went on a second space flight in 2009.
In 1996 she qualified as a military jet captain and took the helm in numerous CT-114 Tutor jets.
Ms Payette will become the 29th person to hold the position of Governor General of Canada and will be the fourth female to be the monarch’s representative.
Speaking of the appointment, Prime Minsiter Justin Trudeau said that she would make an “extraordinary” Governor General who will serve her country with dedication and inclusion, working for the cause of reconciliation with Canada’s Indigenous people.
Ms Payette will serve in succession to former Governor General, His Excellency David Johnston, who has held the office since 2010.
Mr Johnston had his final private audience with The Queen a couple of months ago when he travelled to the UK fot the Canada 150 celebrations.
Congradulations Madam Payette!!!
It’s a nice job if you can get it. Let’s hope she gets some advice on how to dress and present herself as a Canadian woman. Someone who represents all women, .