David Johnston and Syrian Refugees

flight to Canada: David Johnston welcomed tired but visibly grateful Syrian refugees who arrived in Toronto Friday on the latest government-organized flight to Canada, according to Huffington Post Canada. The chartered plane from Beirut, carrying about 214 refugees, was the fourth flight organized by the government as part of its plan to bring 10,000 Syrian refugees to Canada by the end of the year. "Marhaba," Johnston said repeatedly, using the Arabic word for "welcome" as he, his wife, his daughter and four grandchildren greeted beaming refugee families at the airport terminal where the newcomers were being processed. One man asked for permission to kiss Johnston, and, when he agreed, gave the Queen representative a quick peck on both cheeks. Gen. Mohammed Al-Mubaied, saying "hello" repeatedly in English, said through a translator that it was an honour to be welcomed by Johnston. Moments later, as Johnston grandchildren handed out woollen toques to their new friends, Al-Mubaied soft-spoken wife said through a translator that she was "very surprised" at the generosity of Johnston and his family. Canada Governor General David Johnston Syrian refugee Osama and his baby daughter as they arrive at the Welcome Centre at Toronto Pearson Airport on Friday Dec. 18, 2015. "The Canadian people welcome you very warmly," Johnston replied as the man young daughter and son played with his own grandchildren nearby. (www.immigrantscanada.com). As reported in the news.