OTTAWA, April 11 (Xinhua) -- Canada's educator-turned Governor General David Johnston put on another hat of doctorate on Wednesday to become an honorary doctor, but this time from Nanjing University, one of the oldest and most prestigious institutions of higher learning in China.

At a ceremony held in the Chinese Embassy in Ottawa, 71-year- old Johnston received the certificate from Hong Yinxing, chancellor of Nanjing University.

Johnston said he thinks this honorary doctorate a wonderful gesture of friendship and respect, one that brings people closer together in the community of learners and of nations.

"I had the privilege of visiting Nanjing and seeing the university in person a number of times over the past decade, prior to my installation as governor general of Canada," he said. "I also remember the sense of excitement and possibility we all felt in establishing a partnership between our two universities."

Johnston highlighted that as governor general, he remains committed to fostering learning and innovation, and he is actively looking to build bridges between Canada and the world.

"I strongly believe in the importance of working together -- across borders and across disciplines -- to create a smarter, more caring world," he added.

"Through partnership, collaboration and friendship -- such as that which exists between Canada and China, and between Nanjing University and Canadian institutions -- I believe we can tackle the complex, interrelated challenges of the 21st century."

The governor general revealed that he has a dream -- a world that increases and applies the knowledge of its people to improve the condition of all.

"As citizens of Canada -- and of China -- our goal must be to bring about a smarter, more caring world, where everyone can develop their talents, contribute to the greater good, and succeed to their fullest potential. Let us pursue this dream together, in a spirit of confidence, curiosity and respect," he concluded.

Chancellor Hong spoke highly of Johnston's contribution to the friendly cooperation and academic exchanges between Nanjing University and Canada's University of Waterloo including the opening of the Sino-Canadian College in Nanjing.

A specialist in securities regulation, corporation law, public policy and information technology law, Johnson has had a long academic career and stayed on many positions including principal of McGill University, and president of the University of Waterloo before he was appointed as Canada's 28th governor general of Canada in October 2010.