OTTAWA — Gov. Gen. Michaelle Jean leaves today on a tour of Mexico, Costa Rica and Guatemala that may land her in the middle of a controversy involving Canada.

Mexico City was the scene of an angry protest last week in front of the Canadian embassy over a drive-by shooting of an anti-mining activist.

The activist was known for his criticism of Canadian mining companies and protesters used the rally to complain bitterly about the harm they say Canadian mining is doing in Mexico.

Jean's schedule also includes a visit to Chiapas where residents are upset about environmental damage resulting from mining leases the Mexican government has granted, mostly to Canadian companies.

Officially Jean's office is touting the visits as a way of underscoring the benefits of Canada's relationship to the three countries.

Jean and her entourage will be visiting some Canadian-funded community development projects in the region.