国际英语新闻：Prime minister appoints new Governor General of Canada

OTTAWA, July 8 (Xinhua) -- Prime Minister Stephen Harper announced Thursday that, on his recommendation, Queen Elizabeth II has approved the appointment of David L. Johnston as the next Governor General of Canada.

Johnston, a respected lawyer and academic, will assume his new duties on Oct. 1 in succession of Michaelle Jean.

Harper said in a statement that Johnston has a strong record of public service, a broad base of support and an impressive list of achievements.

"He has extensive legal expertise, a comprehensive understanding of government and a deep appreciation of the duties and tasks now before him," he said.

Johnston, president and vice chancellor of the University of Waterloo in Ontario province, previously served as president and vice chancellor of McGill University.

He also has held teaching positions at several prominent Canadian universities, including the University of Toronto, Queen’s University and the University of Western Ontario.