Obama speech in Canadian Parliament February 19?

Looking forward to heading to Ottawa on February 19. I am hoping to get tickets to the parliamentary gallery should he deliver a speech to a recalled parliament. I am excited to see Obama deliver a barn burner on Canadian-American relations and am looking forward to the photo op between Prime Minister Stephen Harper and President Barack Obama. A crucial visit being the first foreign country to host the President of the United States of America. This will be a great opportunity for Prime Minister Harper to build strong relations and produce results on the many challenges both our nations face. For Canadians, Obama offers hope that relations with our best friend and ally will only grow stronger under the new administration and more beneficial for both the Canadian and American people. Expect a huge crowd of people at Parliament Hill on the 19th and for a change it will not be to protest. Yes We Can to good relations between Obama and Harper.
-Darryl

Obama coming to Ottawa on Feb. 19

U.S. President Barack Obama will visit Canada on Feb. 19 in his first official trip abroad, the White House announced Wednesday.

No details of the trip, including what city he would visit, were announced, but CBC News has learned that his destination will be Ottawa.

Although Parliament will not be sitting that week, it may be recalled so Obama can address a joint sitting, CBC's Paul Hunter reported.

"This is a testament, not just to the size of our trading relationship and the closeness of our alliance, but also the strength of our friendship," Prime Minister Stephen Harper told the House of Commons.

"I look forward to an important and productive working visit."

Obama had already pledged his first official foreign trip would be to Canada but had not specified a date.

"Canada is a vitally important ally," White House spokesman Robert Gibbs told reporters. "The president looks forward to the opportunity to speak with Prime Minister Harper and visit our neighbour to the north."

Former president George W. Bush made his first foreign visit to Mexico.

Last week, Harper spoke with Obama following his inauguration and congratulated him.

The Prime Minister's Office said Harper and Obama discussed the economy, his trip to Canada, energy, environment and the war in Afghanistan.

A recent poll, conducted before Obama took the oath of office Jan. 20, showed large support for the new president, with 81 per cent of Canadians holding a positive view of him.