Canada has taken another step away from Britain's monarchy, telling diplomats presenting credentials to no longer address their letters to the queen.
Ottawa says in the future, diplomats should introduce themselves to the governor-general, the queen's representative, the Telegraph reported Friday.
Prime Minister Paul Martin said Thursday the change was made "to reflect Canada's status as a fully independent nation." A spokesman said the change had been done with the queen's consent.
Canada's constitutional links to the monarchy remain intact.
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