Canada_2020_GA_archives.csv

,title,links,date,year,doctype,text
0,Canada continues its support of Palestinian refugees,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/12/canada-continues-its-support-of-palestinian-refugees.html,12/21/20,2020, news releases," Providing humanitarian assistance and responding to the needs of Palestinian refugees is part of the path toward peace and prosperity in the Middle East. That is why Canada is committed to meeting the basic needs of the poorest and most vulnerable among this population.The Honourable Karina Gould, Minister of International Development, today announced Canada’s continued support of up to $90 million over 3 years for Palestinian refugees through the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). This support will help respond to the rising needs of vulnerable Palestinian refugees in UNRWA’s 5 areas of operation (the West Bank, Gaza, Syria, Lebanon and Jordan).This commitment will contribute to meeting the basic education, health and livelihood needs of Palestinian refugees, especially women and children. It will also provide emergency lifesaving assistance to an estimated 465,000 Palestinian refugees in Syria and Lebanon, through UNRWA’s Emergency Appeal for the Syria regional crisis. In addition, it will complement UNRWA’s response to the new and emerging needs created by the COVID19 pandemic.Canada’s funding will also reinforce UNRWA’s ongoing efforts to uphold UN values and humanitarian principles, including neutrality, within the agency and its operations. These efforts are essential to the effective delivery of its work and to Canada’s continued support.Canada exercises enhanced due diligence for all humanitarian and development assistance funding for Palestinians. This work includes ongoing oversight, regular site visits, a systematic screening process and strong antiterrorism provisions in funding agreements."
1,Backgrounder - Canada’s support for Palestinian refugees,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/12/backgrounder---canadas-support-for-palestinian-refugees.html,12/21/20,2020, backgrounders,"Canada has announced funding of up to $90 million over 3 years for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA).In the West Bank, Gaza, Syria, Lebanon and Jordan, UNRWA’s core programs provide basic education, health, social services and livelihood opportunities and help to protect the rights of Palestinian refugees, in line with the agency’s mandate. By helping to meet the basic needs of Palestinian refugees, UNRWA’s services contribute to stability in the region.In response to the Syria regional crisis, UNRWA focuses on preserving the resilience of vulnerable individuals by providing humanitarian assistance and a protective framework for Palestinian refugees in the form of basic services, such as education, health, water, sanitation and hygiene and livelihood activities.This continued commitment builds on Canada’s previous support for Palestinian refugees. From 2016 though 2019, Canada committed a total of $110 million in support for UNRWA. In addition, as part of new funding to respond to COVID19 announced by the Honourable Karina Gould, Minister of International Development, in April 2020, Canada provided $1.5 million to UNRWA to support the agency’s preparedness and response to COVID19 in the region.Providing basic education, health and social services to Palestinian refugees  up to $75 million over 3 yearsThis funding will help over half a million Palestinian refugee girls and boys receive quality basic education, which is a top priority for UNRWA, given that approximately half of its core budget is spent on education services. Canada’s funding will also help to operate more than 140 primary healthcare clinics and support outreach teams in delivering access to healthcare services, medications and immunizations to approximately 3.5 million individuals. In addition, it will contribute to providing basic shelter and food for the poorest Palestinian refugees.Through this funding, Canada is also continuing its support for UNRWA’s ongoing efforts to promote neutrality in its operations and among its staff, the majority of whom are also Palestinian refugees. This assistance builds on previous Canadian support and demonstrates how Canada and UNRWA are working together to reinforce respect for the humanitarian principles of humanity, neutrality, operational independence and impartiality. This is essential to the effective delivery of the agency’s work and to Canada’s continued support.Humanitarian principles, including neutrality, represent a core commitment and value of UN staff, as well as a key element of UNRWA’s regulatory framework. Canadian funding will help strengthen the agency’s transparency and accountability in this regard. Through the Framework for Cooperation between  and UNRWA, Canada has set out its requirements regarding implementing reform, regular monitoring and reporting, and compliance with Canadian antiterrorism requirements.Emergency appeal for the Syria regional crisis  up to $15 million over 3 yearsCanada’s support will provide humanitarian assistance to address the urgent needs of Palestinian refugees affected by the Syria regional crisis. Canadian assistance will provide food, cash and nonfood items, as well as emergency health assistance, psychosocial and protection services, and highquality and inclusive education for girls and boys. For Palestinian refugees from Syria displaced to Lebanon, Canadian assistance will also help to provide opportunities for sustainable livelihoods.UNRWA’s response to the COVID19 crisisThe COVID19 crisis is worsening preexisting vulnerabilities among Palestinian refugees, and UNRWA is adapting. The agency has adjusted the delivery of its education and health services to protect the communities it serves and to limit the spread of COVID19. UNRWA has managed to maintain its services and prevent outbreaks of COVID19 within densely populated Palestinian refugee camps, although the risk of outbreaks remains a concern. The agency has shifted to telemedicine and home delivery of essential medications and food, distributed hygiene packs and food parcels to those in quarantine, set up health advice hotlines and maintained an educationinemergencies program to support homeschooling and remote learning.UN Office of Internal Oversight Services InvestigationCanadian officials have reviewed the confidential investigation report prepared by the UN Office of Internal Oversight Services regarding allegations of misconduct among former UNRWA senior managers. The report supports the UN's earlier confirmations that no fraud or misappropriation of operational funds occurred. UNRWA’s new senior management has committed to significant management reform initiatives aimed at strengthening UNRWA’s accountability, transparency, management and governance. Canada will remain engaged on these efforts."
2,Statement by Foreign Affairs Minister on the ongoing Human rights violations in Chechnya ,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/12/statement-by-foreign-affairs-minister-on-the-ongoing-human-rights-violations-in-chechnya.html,12/17/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement on continued human rights violations and abuses in Chechnya, particularly against LGBTQ2 individuals:“Two years ago, Canada, alongside 15 other members of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), invoked the OSCE’s Moscow Mechanism to initiate a factfinding mission to address serious human rights violations and abuses in Chechnya.“Despite clear evidence substantiating allegations of harassment and persecution, arbitrary or unlawful arrests or detentions, torture, enforced disappearances and extrajudicial executions of LGBTQ2 people in Chechnya, Russia has taken no meaningful action towards implementing the recommendations in the mission’s report. Meanwhile, new credible information has come to light from human rights organizations about further grave human rights violations and abuses in Chechnya, including an alarming increase in the number of abductions and enforced disappearances.“In the two years since the report was released, the inaction by Russia has further contributed to a climate of impunity for human rights abusers. Canada again urges Russia to conduct an impartial and credible investigation so that those responsible for torture and other abuses are held to account. Canada continues to call on Russia to take heed of the report’s recommendations and to respect the dignity and human rights of all individuals without discrimination. Human rights have no borders. Canada believes human rights are universal and indivisible, and these include the human rights of LGBTQ2 people.”“As a strong, vocal and forceful advocate for universal human rights for all, the Government of Canada is committed to combatting discrimination, violence, and unjust laws targeting the LGBTQ2 community around the world.”Associated links Human rights violations in Chechnya to be investigatedExpert report confirms human rights abuses in ChechnyaJoint statement delivered by Permanent Representative of France to the OSCE Véronique RogerLacan on the Moscow Mechanism invoked by 16 participating states"
3,Minister Ng speaks with Ukrainian minister Petrashko ,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/12/readout-minister-ng-speaks-with-ukrainian-minister-petrashko.html,12/17/20,2020, readouts," Yesterday, the Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, spoke with Ihor Petrashko, Ukraine’s Minister for Development of Economy, Trade and Agriculture.The ministers spoke about the importance of bilateral and global cooperation and coordination to build a strong global economic recovery from COVID19.They also discussed the modernization of the CanadaUkraine Free Trade Agreement (CUFTA) and its potential benefits to people across Canada and Ukraine, particularly small businesses and women. Since the CUFTA entered into force in 2017, CanadaUkraine 2way bilateral trade has grown, totalling nearly $300 million in 2019. This has meant new opportunities for Canadian and Ukrainian businesses alike, and good jobs in both countries.Minister Ng highlighted Canada’s leadership on advancing rulesbased international trade through the Ottawa Group on WTO reform. Both ministers look forward to continuing to work closely together to promote rulesbased trade and strong supply chains. This work is essential to ensure people continue to have access to essential goods like food and medicine at this challenging time, as well as to ensure our recovery is sustainable and benefits everyone.Related productsStatement from Minister Ng on joint commitment with WTO members to support small businessesStatement on joint commitment with WTO members to maintain predictable and rulesbased trade at this critical timeAssociated linksCanadaUkraine Free Trade Agreement"
4,Minister Ng announces tabling of Ottawa Group’s Trade and Health Initiative at WTO General Council,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/12/minister-ng-announces-tabling-of-ottawa-groups-trade-and-health-initiative-at-wto-general-council.html,12/17/20,2020, news releases," Now more than ever, Canadians rely on open, transparent, and rulesbased international trade that minimizes disruptions for essential goods—especially medicines and medical supplies.Today, the Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, announced that the Canadaled Ottawa Group Trade and Health Initiative was presented to the WTO General Council for discussion, in Canada’s continued response to the global health impact and unprecedented economic challenges caused by the COVID19 pandemic.Through this Trade and Health Initiative, Canada and the other 12 Ottawa Group member nations are calling for further cooperation among all WTO members to strengthen global supply chains and facilitate the flow of essential medicines and medical supplies, including vaccines, amid the current crisis.The Trade and Health Initiative identifies a range of actions that members are encouraged to adopt. These include implementing tradefacilitating measures in the areas of customs and services, limiting export restrictions, temporarily removing or reducing tariffs on essential medical goods, and improving transparency overall.COVID19 knows no borders. Supporting other countries in their fight against COVID19 and other diseases is absolutely essential to protecting Canadians and people around the world.That is why, in addition to putting forth this new Trade and Health Initiative, Canada has contributed a total of $865 million toward the Access to COVID19 Tools Accelerator—a coalition of international organizations and countries overseeing the development, production, and equitable distribution of affordable COVID19 vaccines, therapeutics, and diagnostics.Canada will continue to take a leadership role to promote rulesbased trade and open supply chains, which is more important than ever in the fight against COVID19."
5,"Canada announces additional support for equitable access to COVID-19 tests, treatments and vaccines",https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/12/canada-announces-additional-support-for-equitable-access-to-covid-19-tests-treatments-and-vaccines.html,12/14/20,2020, news releases," The COVID19 pandemic continues to have a profound global impact, with its widereaching effects amplified for vulnerable populations both in Canada and around the world. This virus will not be fully eradicated until it’s eradicated everywhere. That is why Canada is committed to a robust global effort to end the pandemic and address its devastating health, social, economic and security impacts. Canada continues to do its part to ensure that everyone, everywhere, has access to COVID19 tests, treatments and vaccines.The Honourable Karina Gould, Minister of International Development, today announced a contribution of $230 million to procure COVID19 treatments for developing countries in response to urgent priorities identified by the Access to COVID19 Tools (ACT) Accelerator, launched by the World Health Organization and partners. This contribution will help to minimize deaths and severe illness from COVID19, as well as alleviate the burden of the pandemic on alreadystretched health systems.Canada’s contribution will enable UNICEF to procure up to 3 million courses of novel COVID19 antibody therapeutics as soon as clinical trials and regulatory approvals have been completed. The initiative builds on the important work done with the COVID19 Therapeutics Accelerator via the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to secure manufacturing capacity for novel antibody therapeutics production dedicated to developing countries.Minister Gould also announced that Canada will invest $255 million in additional support for the ACTAccelerator for the effective deployment of medical solutions against COVID19 in developing and vulnerable countries. This will be achieved through focused investments with the World Health Organization, the Pan American Health Organization, the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) and Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, for the development, delivery and distribution of vaccines and therapeutics, including targeted support to Latin America and the Caribbean.Canada’s contribution to Gavi will include an investment in the development of a mechanism to equitably reallocate vaccine doses through the COVAX Facility, either by donation or exchange.Canada’s support could also include support to train frontline healthcare workers to administer COVID19 vaccines and therapeutics, to plan and execute mass vaccination campaigns and to procure supplies essential to the rollout of COVID19 vaccines and treatments, such as syringes or personal protective equipment.Today’s investment of $485 million will reinforce the work of key partners of the ACTAccelerator. It will build on Canada’s commitment to increase global equitable access to COVID19 medical countermeasures by helping to strengthen health systems in developing countries for the effective deployment and use of new vaccines and therapies."
6,"Canada’s investments to support equitable access to COVID-19 tests, treatments and vaccines",https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/12/canadas-investments-to-support-equitable-access-to-covid-19-tests-treatments-and-vaccines.html,12/14/20,2020, backgrounders,"Since February 2020, the Government of Canada has announced that it will commit nearly $1.6 billion to the global response to COVID19. This includes more than $865 million in funding for the Access to COVID19 Tools (ACT) Accelerator to support equitable access to COVID19 tests, treatments and vaccines.Canada has been a key supporter of the ACTAccelerator since its inception as it provides a critical platform to mobilize and coordinate the unprecedented global effort needed for the development, production and distribution of safe and effective COVID19 tests, treatments and vaccines. At the core of the ACTAccelerator framework are 3 partnerships (vaccines, therapeutics and diagnostics) with a crosscutting work stream on health systems. Canada joined the ACTAccelerator as a colead on May 4, 2020.To date, Canada has announced a commitment of more than $865 million to support low and middleincome countries to access COVID19 vaccines, tests and treatments through the ACTAccelerator. This includes today’s announcement of $485 million for antibody treatments and in support of the ACTAccelerator’s health systems connector and vaccine pillars. It also includes:a contribution of $220 million, announced on September 25, 2020, to support the procurement of vaccine doses for low and middleincome countries through the Gavi COVAX Advance Market Commitment (AMC)a contribution of $120 million in support of the ACTAccelerator, announced on June 27, 2020a contribution of $40 million to the Coalition of Epidemic Preparedness Innovation announced on April 5, 2020a previous initial contribution of up to $31 million to the Gavi COVAX AMCCanada is currently the secondlargest financial supporter of the Gavi COVAX AMC, which will enable 92 low and middleincome countries to access vaccines with the support of official development assistance financing.By joining the COVAX Facility as a selffinancing country and by contributing to the Gavi COVAX AMC, Canada is supporting collective efforts to develop safe, effective and accessible COVID19 vaccines for 189 participating economies across the world.All countries participating in the COVAX Facility, either as selffinancing or AMCeligible countries, will have access to a portfolio of vaccine candidates. Distribution will be equitable and based on available doses among countries that have selected specific vaccine candidates."
7,Minister Gould and Minister Anand to hold news conference,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/12/minister-gould-and-minister-anand-to-hold-news-conference.html,12/13/20,2020, media advisories," The Honourable Karina Gould, Minister of International Development, and the Honourable Anita Anand, Minister of Public Services and Procurement, invite the media to participate in a news conference on Canada’s global and domestic response to the COVID19 pandemic.
Date: Monday, December 14, 2020  Time: 11 am ET Location: Room 200, Sir John A. Macdonald Building, 144 Wellington Street, Ottawa, Ontario
Notes for media:

Open coverage in person and by teleconference
Media wishing to cover the event must be accredited with the Canadian Parliamentary Press Gallery
Participants can dial in to listen and ask questions via these numbers: 
  
Local: 6139607518
Tollfree: 18668057923
Passcode: 8381726#
 
While speaking on the teleconference line, participants should mute their computer’s speakers to reduce feedback.

Attention:

Those attending in person must wear a face mask or covering.
Individuals must not present any symptoms associated with COVID19 or have been in contact with anyone who has received a positive diagnosis within the previous 14 days."
8,Statement by Minister Ng on Canada’s challenge of U.S. duties on Canadian softwood lumber,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/12/statement-by-minister-ng-on-canadas-challenge-of-us-duties-on-canadian-softwood-lumber.html,12/11/20,2020, statements," The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, today issued the following statement regarding Canada’s request for a panel review under Chapter 10 of the CanadaUnited StatesMexico Agreement regarding U.S. countervailing duties on imports of Canadian softwood lumber:“On November 24, 2020, the U.S. Department of Commerce established, through its first administrative review process, a 7.42% countervailing duty rate for most Canadian producers of softwood lumber. “Canada firmly believes that any duties imposed on Canadian exports of softwood lumber to the United States are unwarranted and unfair.“These duties have caused unjustified harm for Canadian workers and businesses, and are hampering economic recovery on both sides of the border—especially when our people are being affected by the health and economic impacts of COVID19.“Our government will continue to vigorously defend its forestry sector and the thousands of hardworking Canadians it employs.“Canada will consider all of its legal options with respect to U.S. duties on softwood lumber, including the possibility of bringing this challenge to the World Trade Organization for review under its dispute settlement mechanism.”Quick factsMost U.S. imports of Canadian softwood lumber are now subject to new duty rates: a 7.42% countervailing duty rate and a 1.57% antidumping duty rate (8.99% combined); certain companies also received companyspecific rates.The previous combined rate to which most Canadian companies were subject when exporting certain softwood lumber products to the United States was 20.23%.Related productsStatement by Minister Ng about U.S. duties on Canadian softwood lumberAssociated linksFrequently asked questions  Softwood lumber"
9,Minister Ng announces appointments to Export Development Canada and Canadian Commercial Corporation boards of directors,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/12/minister-ng-announces-appointments-to-export-development-canada-and-canadian-commercial-corporation-boards-of-directors.html,12/11/20,2020, news releases," Export Development Canada (EDC) and the Canadian Commercial Corporation (CCC) are a vital part of the Government of Canada’s commitment to helping Canadian businesses of all sizes grow and succeed, including in diversified export markets. This is more important than ever as we work to build a strong economic recovery from COVID19.Today, the Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, announced the following appointments for terms of 4 years:EDC board of directors: Manjit Sharma, Chief Financial Officer of WSP Canada Inc.CCC board of directors: Julian Ovens, Senior Advisor with Crestview StrategyThe responsibility of the boards is to supervise the direction and management of the EDC and CCC, oversee their strategic development, and identify opportunities for the organizations to serve Canadian businesses better.The appointments are made based on an open, transparent, and meritbased selection process developed to attract highquality candidates while reflecting gender parity and Canada’s diversity."
10,Backgrounder – Biographical notes,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/12/backgrounder--biographical-notes.html,12/11/20,2020, backgrounders,"Manjit SharmaManjit Sharma joined Export Development Canada’s board of directors in October 2020. She brings over 25 years of depth and experience in navigating a wide range of operational matters in a variety of industries. Manjit is Chief Financial Officer for WSP Canada Inc. and a member of the international consultancy’s Canadian Leadership Team. Before joining WSP, Manjit was on the National Executive Team of General Electric Canada (GE Canada), serving as chief financial officer. Her responsibilities spanned strategic planning and analysis, mergers and acquisitions, tax oversight, risk, governance, diversity and inclusion. She has also served on the board of GE Canada and is pastchair of the GE Canada Pension Trust, overseeing investment strategy. Active in her community, Manjit serves on the board of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce, and has had leadership roles with the Greater Toronto YMCA (past board member), Junior Achievement of Central Ontario (past governor) and FEI Young Luminaries Mentorship Program. She holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Toronto, is a chartered professional, and is an alumna of the Rotman School of Management’s Judy Project for Executive Women in Leadership. In 2019, she was recognized as one of Canada’s Top 100 Most Powerful Women.Julian OvensJulian Ovens is a Senior Advisor with Crestview Strategy, based in Ottawa. He has extensive experience as an international corporate development leader, a natural resources executive, and a senior government advisor. Prior to joining Crestview Strategy, Julian was chief of staff to 2 of Canada’s former international trade ministers, FrançoisPhilippe Champagne and Jim Carr, as well as a former minister of foreign affairs, Stéphane Dion. He previously worked at BHP Billiton, the world’s largest natural resources company, as Head of Strategy and Development, Potash (formerly Diamonds) in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, and Project Director, Iron Ore Africa, Minerals Exploration, based in Singapore."
11,Statement by Minister of Foreign Affairs and Minister of International Development on Human Rights Day,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/12/statement-by-minister-of-foreign-affairs-and-minister-of-international-development-on-human-rights-day.html,12/10/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and the Honourable Karina Gould, Minister of International Development, today issued the following statement:“This past year has presented some serious challenges, particularly when it comes to human rights. The pandemic has exposed inequalities and worsened the situation of many groups, including minorities. In some cases, pandemicrelated measures have been used to restrict human rights.“This year’s Human Rights Day is an occasion to affirm our conviction that human rights need to be at the centre of the COVID19 recovery. Human rights are universal, indivisible, interdependent and interrelated. They are also about equality of opportunity. The people marginalized and most affected by COVID19 must be heard. Only then will we build a more inclusive, just and equal postpandemic world that will be safer and more peaceful for all.“Today, Canada is announcing renewed support for the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights [OHCHR] through a contribution of $5 million. This funding will strengthen the OHCHR’s ability to promote and protect the human rights of all people. Canada has been and will remain a consistent and vocal advocate for human rights at home and around the world.”"
12,Minister Ng introduces legislation in House of Commons to implement Canada-United Kingdom Trade Continuity Agreement ,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/12/minister-ng-introduces-legislation-in-house-of-commons-to-implement-canada-unitedkingdom-trade-continuity-agreement.html,12/9/20,2020, news releases," The Government of Canada has been working hard on a trade agreement between Canada and the United Kingdom that will support good, middleclass jobs in Canada and provide predictability and stability for businesses of all sizes, which is more important than ever during the COVID19 pandemic.Today, the Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, introduced Bill C18, An Act to implement the CanadaUnited Kingdom Trade Continuity Agreement (CanadaUK TCA), in the House of Commons.Subject to parliamentary approval, by preserving the main benefits of the CanadaEuropean Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), including the elimination of tariffs on 98% of products exported to the United Kingdom, this agreement will maintain preferential access to the U.K. market for Canadian exporters, even as the United Kingdom exits CETA.If adopted, the TCA will include:continued opportunities for Canadian agriculture, fish, and seafood exporters, as well as commercially meaningful access for all Canadian productscontinued opportunities for Canadian service suppliers, including financial services; the agreement would maintain servicemarket access to the United Kingdom that is among the best that country has historically grantedcontinued guaranteed access for Canadian suppliers to the $188billion U.K. government procurement marketcontinued high CETA standards on labour, the environment, and dispute settlementThe Government of Canada looks forward to working with all members of Parliament and senators to swiftly ratify the TCA to help give Canadian businesses of all sizes, workers, and all other Canadians the stability they need now more than ever."
13,Minister of International Development to celebrate awarding of Nobel Peace Prize to World Food Programme,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/12/minister-of-international-development-to-celebrate-awarding-of-nobel-peace-prize-to-world-food-programme.html,12/9/20,2020, media advisories," The Honourable Karina Gould, Minister of International Development, will be joined by Elly Vandenberg, Director Global Office Canada, World Food Programme; Jon Elvedal Fredriksen, Norway’s Ambassador to Canada; and Nicolas Moyer, President and CEO of Cooperation Canada, to celebrate the awarding of the Nobel Peace Prize 2020 to the World Food Programme. 
Date: Thursday, December 10, 2020 Time: Noon ET
Notes for media: The Minister and other participants will be present in person, respecting physical distancing. Media representatives wishing to participate may join in the following ways:

In person at 125B West Block, Parliament Hill, Ottawa, Ontario
Via teleconference at 8774134815, access code 9230662"
14,Two years since Canadians Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor arbitrarily detained in China,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/12/two-years-since-canadians-michael-kovrig-and-michael-spavor-arbitrarily-detained-in-china.html,12/9/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement:“December 10 marks two years since Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor were arbitrarily detained in China.“These years have been stolen from Mr. Kovrig and Mr. Spavor, their families and loved ones.“I am struck by the integrity and strength of character the two have shown as they endure immense hardship that would shake anyone’s faith in humanity.“Both Mr. Kovrig and Mr. Spavor are incredible examples of perseverance and determination in the face of the most difficult circumstances. I know they draw enormous strength from their families, who have been steadfast in pressing for a resolution to this untenable situation.“These two Canadians are an absolute priority for our government, and we will continue to work tirelessly to secure their immediate release and to stand up for them as a government and as Canadians.“We are grateful to the many countries around the world that have expressed support for Canada and for Mr. Kovrig and Mr. Spavor.”"
15,Statement by Minister Ng on signing of Canada-United Kingdom Trade Continuity Agreement,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/12/statement-by-minister-ng-on-signing-of-canada-united-kingdom-trade-continuity-agreement.html,12/9/20,2020, statements,"  The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, today issued the following statement regarding the signing of the CanadaUnited Kingdom Trade Continuity Agreement:“Canada welcomes the signing of the new CanadaUnited Kingdom Trade Continuity Agreement, which will support good, middleclass jobs in Canada and provide stability for businesses of all sizes.“At a time of great uncertainty amid COVID19, this continuity and predictability is crucial for all Canadians.“This transition agreement preserves the main benefits of the CanadaEuropean Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement, including the elimination of tariffs on 98% of products exported to the United Kingdom.“Canada and the United Kingdom will now move forward with their respective domestic procedures toward the ratification and implementation of the new trade agreement.“Our government looks forward to introducing and debating legislation in the House of Commons as soon as possible so that we can deliver the continuity Canadians need.“We also look forward to launching negotiations of a new comprehensive free trade agreement with the United Kingdom in the near future, with a focus on supporting small businesses, women, the environment and digital trade.”Associated linksCanada successfully concludes talks on transitional trade continuity agreement with the United Kingdom"
16,Government of Canada officials to provide technical briefing on Canada-United Kingdom Trade Continuity Agreement ,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/12/government-of-canada-officials-to-provide-technical-briefing-on-canada-united-kingdom-trade-continuity-agreement.html,12/9/20,2020, media advisories," Government of Canada officials will offer a technical briefing on the CanadaUnited Kingdom Trade Continuity Agreement (CanadaU.K. TCA) following the tabling of its implementation legislation.
Event: Department officials to provide technical briefing on CanadaU.K. TCA Date: Wednesday, December 9, 2020 Time: 4 pm ET
Notes:

Conference call
Media representatives are asked to register with youmy.han@international.gc.ca and dial in no later than 3:45 pm ET on Wednesday, December 9, 2020
Journalists can dial in to listen and ask questions: Participant dialin numbers:

Local: 6139607526
Tollfree: 18774134815
Pass code: 5364484#
 
 Reporters are reminded to please mute their computer audio while speaking on the teleconference line to reduce feedback."
17,Canada announces support to improve safety and economic opportunities for women and most vulnerable in Ukraine ,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/12/canada-announces-support-to-improve-safety-and-economic-opportunities-for-women-and-most-vulnerable-in-ukraine.html,12/9/20,2020, news releases," Canada is unwavering in its support for Ukraine as it secures its future as a stable, democratic and prosperous country. This includes supporting the Government of Ukraine to enhance the economic security of women, especially those affected by the conflict in eastern Ukraine.Today, in a meeting with the Ukrainian Canadian Congress (UCC), the Honourable Karina Gould, Minister of International Development, announced 4 projects totalling over $25 million to support the economic empowerment of rural women, internally displaced persons, persons with disabilities and other vulnerable groups in Ukraine. This follows a recent announcement that Canada is providing $7 million to increase security and protection from sexual and genderbased violence for women and girls across Ukraine.Key development partners will implement these projects to support an inclusive and sustainable economic growth by giving opportunities to those populations across the country."
18,Backgrounder - Canada’s support for women and most vulnerable in Ukraine,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/12/backgrounder---canadas-support-for-women-and-most-vulnerable-in-ukraine.html,12/9/20,2020, backgrounders,"The Government of Canada has announced that it is providing over $32 million to support the economic empowerment of women and the most vulnerable and marginalized groups in Ukraine.Cooperative Development Foundation of Canada and local partner AllUkrainian Charity Foundation “Gorenie”: $5.1 millionThrough the project Supporting Economic Prosperity for Women and Internally Displaced Persons in Ukraine, the foundations will help internally displaced persons, women with disabilities and women living in rural or periurban areas in the regions of Kyiv, Kharkiv and Dnipropetrovsk to find jobs in existing garment enterprises or create livelihoods through entrepreneurship to meet the basic needs of their families.SOCODEVI and local partner Dnipropetrovsk Agricultural Advisory Service: $7.9 millionThe project Entrepreneurship Development for ConflictAffected Rural Population in Eastern Ukraine (WeProsper) will focus on supporting womenled agricultural value chains and promoting sustainable agricultural production, rural women’s economic empowerment and increased distribution of products by establishing agrifood cooperatives. This project supports women and the most vulnerable and marginalized living in rural Donetsk and Luhansk regions.ACTED: $4.3 millionThe project Securing Women’s Economic Empowerment in Donbas will target rural women, the elderly, unemployed women and men of preretirement age, singleheaded households with multiple children, and youth, including those who have been internally displaced. This project aims at creating economic opportunities for the most vulnerable, conflictaffected populations of the Donbas region through livelihood grants, small business training and a savings and loans initiative.Pact Inc.: $7.8 millionWomen Included: Nurturing Growth and Security (WINGS) supports women directly through skills and business development activities, including finding employment or starting a business. It targets Roma women, women with disabilities, survivors of genderbased violence, women who have served prison sentences, women living with HIV, veterans, widows and internally displaced persons.United Nations Population Fund: $7 millionThe Achieving Municipal Breakthrough in Effective Response to Sexual and GenderBased Violence in Ukraine (AMBER) project aims to increase security and protection from sexual and genderbased violence for women and girls in Ukraine by supporting a prevention and response system in municipalities and communities across the country."
19,Minister of Foreign Affairs leads Ministerial Coordination Group on COVID-19 ,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/12/minister-of-foreign-affairs-leads-ministerial-coordination-group-on-covid-19.html,12/7/20,2020, readouts," Today, the Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, hosted the 12th call of the Ministerial Coordination Group on COVID19 with counterparts from Brazil, Germany, Italy, Mexico, South Africa and the United Kingdom.With many member states continuing to experience a second wave of COVID19 infections, the group discussed their respective domestic and international efforts on vaccines and economic recovery.Minister Champagne, along with foreign ministers, reiterated the importance of stopping the accelerating number of COVID19 cases many of their countries are facing.Foreign ministers mentioned upcoming vaccination campaigns and finding ways to assist with global access to vaccines."
20,Canada announces support to empower women in Southeast Asia and help build sustainable peace ,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/12/canada-announces-support-to-empower-women-in-southeast-asia-and-help-build-sustainable-peace.html,12/7/20,2020, news releases," In Southeast Asia, women face rising extremism and targeted violence as COVID19 exacerbates existing conflict and fragility.Today, the Honourable Karina Gould, Minister of International Development, announced that Canada is providing $8.5 million over 5 years, beginning in 2020, to UN Women to empower women, prevent violence and promote social cohesion in Southeast Asia.The Minister made the announcement at the virtual highlevel global conference Strengthening Women’s Role in Building and Sustaining Peace: From Commitments to Results, hosted by Vietnam and the United Nations.Canada’s financial commitment will help address gender equality and discrimination against women and girls in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) member states, advance Canada’s women, peace and security agenda, and build sustainable peace and security in Southeast Asia.Canada’s support will advance the empowerment of women in peace and security efforts by promoting their participation and leadership in peacebuilding.In selected countries, activities will include engaging communities and youth to challenge social norms and boost communityled initiatives to prevent and address conflict and contribute to building sustainable peace (for example, by supporting and accompanying women’s organizations as they engage in and influence peace processes)."
21,Statement in response to Venezuela’s December 6 electoral process,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/12/statement-in-response-to-venezuelas-december-6-electoral-process.html,12/6/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement:“Canada does not recognize the results of Venezuela’s December 6 electoral process because the process did not meet the minimum conditions for a free and fair exercise of democracy. “Free and fair elections can only occur when democratic rights are fully respected. “We continue to call for a peaceful democratic transition and for free and fair presidential elections.“Canada will always stand with the people of Venezuela in their fight to restore democracy.”"
22,Minister Ng to highlight success of women exporters at CETA Business Summit,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/12/minister-ng-to-highlight-success-of-women-exporters-at-ceta-business-summit.html,12/3/20,2020, media advisories," The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, will join Isabelle Hudon, Canada’s Ambassador to France, for a panel discussion with Canadian women entrepreneurs. They will discuss the importance of helping womenled businesses tap into the European Union market and talk about the opportunities created by the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement.
Event: Minister Ng will deliver remarks and speak with Canadian women entrepreneurs Date: Friday, December 4, 2020 Time: 12:05 pm ET Notes:

Open coverage via video call
Media representatives are asked to register with youmy.han@international.gc.ca and log on no later than 11:50 pm ET on Friday, December 4."
23,Biographical note,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/11/biographical-note.html,12/1/20,2020, backgrounders,"Kathleen (Kati) Csaba (BA [Political Studies and Russian], Queen’s University, 1988; MA [Central/East European and RussianArea Studies], Carleton University, 1993) began her career at External Affairs and International Trade Canada in 1993. In 1995, Ms. Csaba joined the Canadian International Development Agency and occupied several programming and analytical roles covering Central and Eastern Europe, including 4 postings in the region: as second secretary in Kyiv (1995 to 1997), as head of aid in Sarajevo (1997 to 1999), as head of aid in Moscow (2005 to 2009) and as development director in Kyiv (2009 to 2012). She also served as the director of amalgamation implementation in the SubSaharan Africa Branch (2014 to 2015), followed by a posting to the embassy in Addis Ababa as ministercounsellor responsible for Canada’s development program with Ethiopia (2015 to 2017). Most recently, she served as ambassador to Serbia, North Macedonia and Montenegro (2017 to 2020)."
24,Biographical note,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/11/biographical-note.html,12/1/20,2020, backgrounders,"Ailish Johnson Campbell (BA Hons [Political Studies], Queen’s University, 1997; MSc Econ, London School of Economics, 1998; D.Phil [International Relations], University of Oxford, 2002) joined the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade in 2002 as a trade negotiator in the World Trade Organization’s Doha Round. During her time as a federal public servant, she has held progressively senior roles in economic, finance and international policy, including at the Privy Council Office, Industry Canada and Finance Canada. She was also vice president, international and fiscal policy, at the Business Council of Canada from 2013 to 2015. Most recently, Ms. Johnson Campbell was assistant deputy minister for international business development and chief trade commissioner of Canada from 2017 to 2020. She has been named a Young Global Leader of the World Economic Forum.Natasha Cayer (BSocSc [Political Science], University of Ottawa, 1992; MA [International Affairs], Carleton University, 1997) joined the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade in 1995, becoming a rotational officer in 1998. At Headquarters, Ms. Cayer has served as senior adviser to the assistant deputy minister for international security and global issues (1999 to 2000), as deputy director for chemical and biological weapons in the Nonproliferation and Disarmament Division (2011 to 2013) and as adviser to National Defence’s Canadian Special Operations Forces Command (2013 to 2015). Ms. Cayer has previously represented Canada on postings in Brussels, at the Joint Delegation of Canada to NATO (2000 to 2003) and on the NATO International Staff (2003 to 2007); and in Paris, as deputy permanent delegate and chargé d’affaires at the Permanent Mission of Canada to UNESCO (2007 to 2011). Other assignments abroad include temporary duties in New York (1997) and Wellington (1998). Most recently, Ms. Cayer served as ambassador and permanent representative to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, in Vienna (2016 to 2020).Jenny Hill (BA [Geography], University of Victoria, 2006; MA [Geography], University of Toronto, 2009) joined the Canadian International Development Agency in 2005. Her first assignment abroad was in 2009 to Afghanistan, and in 2015 she served in Ghana as first secretary (development). At Headquarters, her positions have included deputy director roles in the International Humanitarian Assistance and Global Health bureaus and senior adviser to the assistant deputy minister of the Global Issues and Development Branch. Ms. Hill’s most recent posting was to Kenya, where she was counsellor (development) and head of cooperation for Kenya and Somalia.Jocelyn Kinnear (BA Hons [Linguistics], University of Toronto, 1997; MA [German Literature], Queen’s University, 1999; MPA [Public Policy and Administration], Carleton University, 2004) joined Foreign Affairs Canada in 2004. Ms. Kinnear was most recently the director of the Export Controls Policy Division, where she led Canada’s accession to the UN Arms Trade Treaty. She has also served as deputy director in the Office of the Deputy Minister for International Trade, as senior policy advisor on Eastern European security files, and as the head of the Corporate Governance Unit. Overseas, she has served in Ethiopia (2007 to 2009) and at the Permanent Mission to the United Nations in New York (2005). At Headquarters, Ms. Kinnear has also worked on the Middle East, the Horn of Africa and international security files.Reid Sirrs (BA, University of Western Ontario, 1985) joined the Government of Canada in 1998. He held several positions at the Canadian International Development Agency, initially serving in the Industrial Cooperation Program and then as director of decentralization and director general of international operations. At  he was director general for security and emergency management and chief security officer, and most recently acting assistant deputy minister of the Consular, Security and Emergency Management Branch. Overseas, he served as head of office and head of cooperation in Honduras (2002 to 2006); director and head of cooperation in Tanzania, the Comoros, Madagascar and the Seychelles (2006 to 2009); and deputy head of mission in Afghanistan (2014 to 2015). Prior to joining the federal government, Mr. Sirrs worked on trade and investment matters with the Nova Scotia Department of Economic Development and Tourism, the Canadian Exporters’ Association and the Alliance of Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters, as well as in the private sector."
25,Biographical note,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/11/biographical-note.html,12/1/20,2020, backgrounders,"Chantal Chastenay (BA [Political Science, History], McGill University, 1991; MA [International Relations], Laval University, 1993) joined External Affairs and International Trade Canada in 1993. At Headquarters, she has held various positions, including deputy chief of protocol and director of the Diplomatic Corps Services. She also worked in human resources, in the Francophonie Division and in the Middle East Sector. During her career, Ms. Chastenay has held a number of positions abroad, including in Morocco (2000 to 2001) and Jordan (1995 to 1998); in the latter, she was responsible for political relations with Iraq. She was also political counsellor at the embassy in Paris (2008 to 2013). In 2016, she became deputy head of mission and ministercounsellor at the Embassy to Mexico."
26,Biographical note,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/10/biographical-note.html,10/17/20,2020, backgrounders,"Kathleen (Kati) Csaba (BA [Political Studies and Russian], Queen’s University, 1988; MA [Central/East European and RussianArea Studies], Carleton University, 1993) began her career at External Affairs and International Trade Canada in 1993. In 1995, Ms. Csaba joined the Canadian International Development Agency and occupied several programming and analytical roles covering Central and Eastern Europe, including 4 postings in the region: as second secretary in Kyiv (1995 to 1997), as head of aid in Sarajevo (1997 to 1999), as head of aid in Moscow (2005 to 2009) and as development director in Kyiv (2009 to 2012). She also served as the director of amalgamation implementation in the SubSaharan Africa Branch (2014 to 2015), followed by a posting to the embassy in Addis Ababa as ministercounsellor responsible for Canada’s development program with Ethiopia (2015 to 2017). Most recently, she served as ambassador to Serbia, North Macedonia and Montenegro (2017 to 2020)."
27,Biographical note,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/10/biographical-note.html,10/17/20,2020, backgrounders,"Ailish Johnson Campbell (BA Hons [Political Studies], Queen’s University, 1997; MSc Econ, London School of Economics, 1998; D.Phil [International Relations], University of Oxford, 2002) joined the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade in 2002 as a trade negotiator in the World Trade Organization’s Doha Round. During her time as a federal public servant, she has held progressively senior roles in economic, finance and international policy, including at the Privy Council Office, Industry Canada and Finance Canada. She was also vice president, international and fiscal policy, at the Business Council of Canada from 2013 to 2015. Most recently, Ms. Johnson Campbell was assistant deputy minister for international business development and chief trade commissioner of Canada from 2017 to 2020. She has been named a Young Global Leader of the World Economic Forum.Natasha Cayer (BSocSc [Political Science], University of Ottawa, 1992; MA [International Affairs], Carleton University, 1997) joined the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade in 1995, becoming a rotational officer in 1998. At Headquarters, Ms. Cayer has served as senior adviser to the assistant deputy minister for international security and global issues (1999 to 2000), as deputy director for chemical and biological weapons in the Nonproliferation and Disarmament Division (2011 to 2013) and as adviser to National Defence’s Canadian Special Operations Forces Command (2013 to 2015). Ms. Cayer has previously represented Canada on postings in Brussels, at the Joint Delegation of Canada to NATO (2000 to 2003) and on the NATO International Staff (2003 to 2007); and in Paris, as deputy permanent delegate and chargé d’affaires at the Permanent Mission of Canada to UNESCO (2007 to 2011). Other assignments abroad include temporary duties in New York (1997) and Wellington (1998). Most recently, Ms. Cayer served as ambassador and permanent representative to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, in Vienna (2016 to 2020).Jenny Hill (BA [Geography], University of Victoria, 2006; MA [Geography], University of Toronto, 2009) joined the Canadian International Development Agency in 2005. Her first assignment abroad was in 2009 to Afghanistan, and in 2015 she served in Ghana as first secretary (development). At Headquarters, her positions have included deputy director roles in the International Humanitarian Assistance and Global Health bureaus and senior adviser to the assistant deputy minister of the Global Issues and Development Branch. Ms. Hill’s most recent posting was to Kenya, where she was counsellor (development) and head of cooperation for Kenya and Somalia.Jocelyn Kinnear (BA Hons [Linguistics], University of Toronto, 1997; MA [German Literature], Queen’s University, 1999; MPA [Public Policy and Administration], Carleton University, 2004) joined Foreign Affairs Canada in 2004. Ms. Kinnear was most recently the director of the Export Controls Policy Division, where she led Canada’s accession to the UN Arms Trade Treaty. She has also served as deputy director in the Office of the Deputy Minister for International Trade, as senior policy advisor on Eastern European security files, and as the head of the Corporate Governance Unit. Overseas, she has served in Ethiopia (2007 to 2009) and at the Permanent Mission to the United Nations in New York (2005). At Headquarters, Ms. Kinnear has also worked on the Middle East, the Horn of Africa and international security files.Reid Sirrs (BA, University of Western Ontario, 1985) joined the Government of Canada in 1998. He held several positions at the Canadian International Development Agency, initially serving in the Industrial Cooperation Program and then as director of decentralization and director general of international operations. At  he was director general for security and emergency management and chief security officer, and most recently acting assistant deputy minister of the Consular, Security and Emergency Management Branch. Overseas, he served as head of office and head of cooperation in Honduras (2002 to 2006); director and head of cooperation in Tanzania, the Comoros, Madagascar and the Seychelles (2006 to 2009); and deputy head of mission in Afghanistan (2014 to 2015). Prior to joining the federal government, Mr. Sirrs worked on trade and investment matters with the Nova Scotia Department of Economic Development and Tourism, the Canadian Exporters’ Association and the Alliance of Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters, as well as in the private sector."
28,Biographical note,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/10/biographical-note.html,10/17/20,2020, backgrounders,"Chantal Chastenay (BA [Political Science, History], McGill University, 1991; MA [International Relations], Laval University, 1993) joined External Affairs and International Trade Canada in 1993. At Headquarters, she has held various positions, including deputy chief of protocol and director of the Diplomatic Corps Services. She also worked in human resources, in the Francophonie Division and in the Middle East Sector. During her career, Ms. Chastenay has held a number of positions abroad, including in Morocco (2000 to 2001) and Jordan (1995 to 1998); in the latter, she was responsible for political relations with Iraq. She was also political counsellor at the embassy in Paris (2008 to 2013). In 2016, she became deputy head of mission and ministercounsellor at the Embassy to Mexico."
29,Biographical note,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/08/biographical-note.html,8/17/20,2020, backgrounders,"Kathleen (Kati) Csaba (BA [Political Studies and Russian], Queen’s University, 1988; MA [Central/East European and RussianArea Studies], Carleton University, 1993) began her career at External Affairs and International Trade Canada in 1993. In 1995, Ms. Csaba joined the Canadian International Development Agency and occupied several programming and analytical roles covering Central and Eastern Europe, including 4 postings in the region: as second secretary in Kyiv (1995 to 1997), as head of aid in Sarajevo (1997 to 1999), as head of aid in Moscow (2005 to 2009) and as development director in Kyiv (2009 to 2012). She also served as the director of amalgamation implementation in the SubSaharan Africa Branch (2014 to 2015), followed by a posting to the embassy in Addis Ababa as ministercounsellor responsible for Canada’s development program with Ethiopia (2015 to 2017). Most recently, she served as ambassador to Serbia, North Macedonia and Montenegro (2017 to 2020)."
30,Biographical note,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/08/biographical-note.html,8/17/20,2020, backgrounders,"Ailish Johnson Campbell (BA Hons [Political Studies], Queen’s University, 1997; MSc Econ, London School of Economics, 1998; D.Phil [International Relations], University of Oxford, 2002) joined the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade in 2002 as a trade negotiator in the World Trade Organization’s Doha Round. During her time as a federal public servant, she has held progressively senior roles in economic, finance and international policy, including at the Privy Council Office, Industry Canada and Finance Canada. She was also vice president, international and fiscal policy, at the Business Council of Canada from 2013 to 2015. Most recently, Ms. Johnson Campbell was assistant deputy minister for international business development and chief trade commissioner of Canada from 2017 to 2020. She has been named a Young Global Leader of the World Economic Forum.Natasha Cayer (BSocSc [Political Science], University of Ottawa, 1992; MA [International Affairs], Carleton University, 1997) joined the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade in 1995, becoming a rotational officer in 1998. At Headquarters, Ms. Cayer has served as senior adviser to the assistant deputy minister for international security and global issues (1999 to 2000), as deputy director for chemical and biological weapons in the Nonproliferation and Disarmament Division (2011 to 2013) and as adviser to National Defence’s Canadian Special Operations Forces Command (2013 to 2015). Ms. Cayer has previously represented Canada on postings in Brussels, at the Joint Delegation of Canada to NATO (2000 to 2003) and on the NATO International Staff (2003 to 2007); and in Paris, as deputy permanent delegate and chargé d’affaires at the Permanent Mission of Canada to UNESCO (2007 to 2011). Other assignments abroad include temporary duties in New York (1997) and Wellington (1998). Most recently, Ms. Cayer served as ambassador and permanent representative to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, in Vienna (2016 to 2020).Jenny Hill (BA [Geography], University of Victoria, 2006; MA [Geography], University of Toronto, 2009) joined the Canadian International Development Agency in 2005. Her first assignment abroad was in 2009 to Afghanistan, and in 2015 she served in Ghana as first secretary (development). At Headquarters, her positions have included deputy director roles in the International Humanitarian Assistance and Global Health bureaus and senior adviser to the assistant deputy minister of the Global Issues and Development Branch. Ms. Hill’s most recent posting was to Kenya, where she was counsellor (development) and head of cooperation for Kenya and Somalia.Jocelyn Kinnear (BA Hons [Linguistics], University of Toronto, 1997; MA [German Literature], Queen’s University, 1999; MPA [Public Policy and Administration], Carleton University, 2004) joined Foreign Affairs Canada in 2004. Ms. Kinnear was most recently the director of the Export Controls Policy Division, where she led Canada’s accession to the UN Arms Trade Treaty. She has also served as deputy director in the Office of the Deputy Minister for International Trade, as senior policy advisor on Eastern European security files, and as the head of the Corporate Governance Unit. Overseas, she has served in Ethiopia (2007 to 2009) and at the Permanent Mission to the United Nations in New York (2005). At Headquarters, Ms. Kinnear has also worked on the Middle East, the Horn of Africa and international security files.Reid Sirrs (BA, University of Western Ontario, 1985) joined the Government of Canada in 1998. He held several positions at the Canadian International Development Agency, initially serving in the Industrial Cooperation Program and then as director of decentralization and director general of international operations. At  he was director general for security and emergency management and chief security officer, and most recently acting assistant deputy minister of the Consular, Security and Emergency Management Branch. Overseas, he served as head of office and head of cooperation in Honduras (2002 to 2006); director and head of cooperation in Tanzania, the Comoros, Madagascar and the Seychelles (2006 to 2009); and deputy head of mission in Afghanistan (2014 to 2015). Prior to joining the federal government, Mr. Sirrs worked on trade and investment matters with the Nova Scotia Department of Economic Development and Tourism, the Canadian Exporters’ Association and the Alliance of Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters, as well as in the private sector."
31,Biographical note,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/08/biographical-note.html,8/17/20,2020, backgrounders,"Chantal Chastenay (BA [Political Science, History], McGill University, 1991; MA [International Relations], Laval University, 1993) joined External Affairs and International Trade Canada in 1993. At Headquarters, she has held various positions, including deputy chief of protocol and director of the Diplomatic Corps Services. She also worked in human resources, in the Francophonie Division and in the Middle East Sector. During her career, Ms. Chastenay has held a number of positions abroad, including in Morocco (2000 to 2001) and Jordan (1995 to 1998); in the latter, she was responsible for political relations with Iraq. She was also political counsellor at the embassy in Paris (2008 to 2013). In 2016, she became deputy head of mission and ministercounsellor at the Embassy to Mexico."
32,Biographical note,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/02/biographical-note.html,2/7/20,2020, backgrounders,"Kathleen (Kati) Csaba (BA [Political Studies and Russian], Queen’s University, 1988; MA [Central/East European and RussianArea Studies], Carleton University, 1993) began her career at External Affairs and International Trade Canada in 1993. In 1995, Ms. Csaba joined the Canadian International Development Agency and occupied several programming and analytical roles covering Central and Eastern Europe, including 4 postings in the region: as second secretary in Kyiv (1995 to 1997), as head of aid in Sarajevo (1997 to 1999), as head of aid in Moscow (2005 to 2009) and as development director in Kyiv (2009 to 2012). She also served as the director of amalgamation implementation in the SubSaharan Africa Branch (2014 to 2015), followed by a posting to the embassy in Addis Ababa as ministercounsellor responsible for Canada’s development program with Ethiopia (2015 to 2017). Most recently, she served as ambassador to Serbia, North Macedonia and Montenegro (2017 to 2020)."
33,Biographical note,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/02/biographical-note.html,2/7/20,2020, backgrounders,"Ailish Johnson Campbell (BA Hons [Political Studies], Queen’s University, 1997; MSc Econ, London School of Economics, 1998; D.Phil [International Relations], University of Oxford, 2002) joined the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade in 2002 as a trade negotiator in the World Trade Organization’s Doha Round. During her time as a federal public servant, she has held progressively senior roles in economic, finance and international policy, including at the Privy Council Office, Industry Canada and Finance Canada. She was also vice president, international and fiscal policy, at the Business Council of Canada from 2013 to 2015. Most recently, Ms. Johnson Campbell was assistant deputy minister for international business development and chief trade commissioner of Canada from 2017 to 2020. She has been named a Young Global Leader of the World Economic Forum.Natasha Cayer (BSocSc [Political Science], University of Ottawa, 1992; MA [International Affairs], Carleton University, 1997) joined the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade in 1995, becoming a rotational officer in 1998. At Headquarters, Ms. Cayer has served as senior adviser to the assistant deputy minister for international security and global issues (1999 to 2000), as deputy director for chemical and biological weapons in the Nonproliferation and Disarmament Division (2011 to 2013) and as adviser to National Defence’s Canadian Special Operations Forces Command (2013 to 2015). Ms. Cayer has previously represented Canada on postings in Brussels, at the Joint Delegation of Canada to NATO (2000 to 2003) and on the NATO International Staff (2003 to 2007); and in Paris, as deputy permanent delegate and chargé d’affaires at the Permanent Mission of Canada to UNESCO (2007 to 2011). Other assignments abroad include temporary duties in New York (1997) and Wellington (1998). Most recently, Ms. Cayer served as ambassador and permanent representative to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, in Vienna (2016 to 2020).Jenny Hill (BA [Geography], University of Victoria, 2006; MA [Geography], University of Toronto, 2009) joined the Canadian International Development Agency in 2005. Her first assignment abroad was in 2009 to Afghanistan, and in 2015 she served in Ghana as first secretary (development). At Headquarters, her positions have included deputy director roles in the International Humanitarian Assistance and Global Health bureaus and senior adviser to the assistant deputy minister of the Global Issues and Development Branch. Ms. Hill’s most recent posting was to Kenya, where she was counsellor (development) and head of cooperation for Kenya and Somalia.Jocelyn Kinnear (BA Hons [Linguistics], University of Toronto, 1997; MA [German Literature], Queen’s University, 1999; MPA [Public Policy and Administration], Carleton University, 2004) joined Foreign Affairs Canada in 2004. Ms. Kinnear was most recently the director of the Export Controls Policy Division, where she led Canada’s accession to the UN Arms Trade Treaty. She has also served as deputy director in the Office of the Deputy Minister for International Trade, as senior policy advisor on Eastern European security files, and as the head of the Corporate Governance Unit. Overseas, she has served in Ethiopia (2007 to 2009) and at the Permanent Mission to the United Nations in New York (2005). At Headquarters, Ms. Kinnear has also worked on the Middle East, the Horn of Africa and international security files.Reid Sirrs (BA, University of Western Ontario, 1985) joined the Government of Canada in 1998. He held several positions at the Canadian International Development Agency, initially serving in the Industrial Cooperation Program and then as director of decentralization and director general of international operations. At  he was director general for security and emergency management and chief security officer, and most recently acting assistant deputy minister of the Consular, Security and Emergency Management Branch. Overseas, he served as head of office and head of cooperation in Honduras (2002 to 2006); director and head of cooperation in Tanzania, the Comoros, Madagascar and the Seychelles (2006 to 2009); and deputy head of mission in Afghanistan (2014 to 2015). Prior to joining the federal government, Mr. Sirrs worked on trade and investment matters with the Nova Scotia Department of Economic Development and Tourism, the Canadian Exporters’ Association and the Alliance of Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters, as well as in the private sector."
34,Biographical note,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/02/biographical-note.html,2/7/20,2020, backgrounders,"Chantal Chastenay (BA [Political Science, History], McGill University, 1991; MA [International Relations], Laval University, 1993) joined External Affairs and International Trade Canada in 1993. At Headquarters, she has held various positions, including deputy chief of protocol and director of the Diplomatic Corps Services. She also worked in human resources, in the Francophonie Division and in the Middle East Sector. During her career, Ms. Chastenay has held a number of positions abroad, including in Morocco (2000 to 2001) and Jordan (1995 to 1998); in the latter, she was responsible for political relations with Iraq. She was also political counsellor at the embassy in Paris (2008 to 2013). In 2016, she became deputy head of mission and ministercounsellor at the Embassy to Mexico."
35,Announcement of a new diplomatic appointment,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/11/announcement-of-a-new-diplomatic-appointment.html,12/1/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced the following diplomatic appointment:Kathleen (Kati) Csaba becomes High Commissioner in the Republic of Ghana. Ms. Csaba replaces Heather Cameron."
36,Announcement of a new diplomatic appointment,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/10/announcement-of-a-new-diplomatic-appointment.html,10/14/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced the following diplomatic appointment:Kathleen (Kati) Csaba becomes High Commissioner in the Republic of Ghana. Ms. Csaba replaces Heather Cameron."
37,Announcement of a new diplomatic appointment,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/02/announcement-of-a-new-diplomatic-appointment.html,2/7/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced the following diplomatic appointment:Kathleen (Kati) Csaba becomes High Commissioner in the Republic of Ghana. Ms. Csaba replaces Heather Cameron."
38,Statement to mark International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/11/statement-to-mark-international-day-for-the-elimination-of-violence-against-women.html,11/25/20,2020, statements,"The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and the Honourable Karina Gould, Minister of International Development, today issued the following statement:“In Canada and around the world, an estimated one in three women still experience physical or sexual violence in their lifetimes. This abuse can occur in many forms, from intimate partner violence to rape, trafficking, female genital mutilation or cutting and child, early and forced marriage. Sadly, most survivors do not feel comfortable coming forward because of outdated stigmas, complex legal systems and the pain of reliving the events.“Sexual and genderbased violence does not occur in a vacuum: we know that further risks and stigmatization affect women and girls who are Indigenous, racialized, lesbian, bisexual, trans, queer, or twospirit, living with disabilities, or experiencing homelessness. We also know that COVID19 mitigation measures, especially stayathome orders, have contributed to increased abuse and disruptions in accessing support.“Not only do these survivors bear the lifelong effects of their perpetrator’s actions, but sexual and genderbased violence affects entire communities as barriers to peace, security and prosperity.“This is why Canada takes a feminist approach to our foreign policy and international assistance. This drives our multilateral engagement, including on the UN Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women. It has been 25 years since the Beijing Declaration stated ‘women’s rights are human rights.’ We call for continued progress, including addressing new forms of abuse, such as violence against women and girls in the digital sphere.  “Canada is inspired by efforts of those on the front lines of the fight against sexual and genderbased violence and their continued resilience, particularly during the current COVID19 pandemic. We continue to support women’s rights organizations, human rights defenders, and the media in confronting abuse. Institutionally, we also support increased recruitment and training of women in policing and security roles to make it easier for survivors to report their abuse safely. Canada champions the integration and early adoption of prevention, mitigation and response measures for sexual and genderbased violence throughout every stage of humanitarian interventions.“As Canada marks the beginning of 16 Days of Activism Against GenderBased Violence, concluding on Human Rights Day, December 10, we invite you to join the conversation using the hashtag #16Days and to become an ally by listening, believing, speaking out, intervening and acting.”"
39,Canada renews its development assistance commitment to Afghanistan,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/11/canada-renews-its-development-assistance-commitment-to-afghanistan.html,11/24/20,2020, news releases," While important progress has been made, Afghanistan remains one of the world’s poorest and most fragile states, and its need for development assistance remains high. The COVID19 pandemic has aggravated already difficult conditions, crippling an economy that had been steadily growing and overburdening already stretched health resources.The Honourable Karina Gould, Minister of International Development, today announced that the Government of Canada is pledging $270 million over the next 3 years (2021 to 2024) in bilateral development assistance to Afghanistan.Minister Gould made the announcement at the 2020 Afghanistan Conference, a virtual ministerial pledging conference cohosted by the Government of Afghanistan, the Government of Finland and the United Nations.Canada’s contribution, and the Afghanistan Conference, comes at a critical point in Afghanistan’s history, as peace talks offer the Afghan people the possibility of peace for the first time in a generation.The renewed funding includes a contribution to the Afghanistan Reconstruction Trust Fund, as well as support for projects in priority areas such as health and education; women’s empowerment; human rights; and women, peace and security.Today’s pledge also fulfills Canada’s commitment to support Afghanistan’s plan for selfreliance, the Transformation Decade (2015 to 2024)."
40,Statement by Minister Ng about U.S. duties on Canadian softwood lumber,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/11/statement-by-minister-ng-about-us-duties-on-canadian-softwood-lumber.html,11/24/20,2020, statements," The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, today issued the following statement regarding the first administrative review by the U.S. Department of Commerce of U.S. antidumping and countervailing duty orders on certain softwood lumber products from Canada:“Canada’s forestry sector supports hundreds of thousands of good, middleclass jobs for Canadians in communities across the country, and we will always vigorously defend their interests.“While reduction in tariffs for some Canadian producers is a step in the right direction, Canada is disappointed that the United States continues to impose unwarranted and unfair duties on Canadian softwood lumber.“Canada strongly disagrees with this decision which will result in higher duties for Resolute Forest Products, a company that employs thousands of hardworking people in Quebec and Ontario.“Canada expects the United States to comply with its WTO and CUSMA obligations, and drop their baseless duties on Canadian softwood lumber.“These duties have caused unjustified harm to Canadian businesses and workers, as well as U.S. consumers.“We will continue to press our American counterparts to rescind this unfair and unwarranted trade action. We remain confident that a negotiated settlement is not only possible, but in the interests of both our countries.”Quick FactsThe new duty rate that will apply to exports from most companies subject to the first administrative review is 8.99%, compared to the current rate of 20.23%. Certain companies will also receive companyspecific rates.The new rates will apply on a going forward basis to softwood lumber exports to the United States from companies that were subject to the first Administrative Review.Once any challenges before CUSMA Chapter 10 or U.S. courts have been resolved, these new duty rates will apply retroactively to softwood lumber exports to the U.S. from companies that were subject to the first Administrative Review.Associated linksFrequently asked questions – Softwood lumber"
41,Remarks by the Minister of Foreign Affairs before the Special Committee on Canada-China Relations,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/11/remarks-by-the-minister-of-foreign-affairs-before-the-special-committee-on-canada-china-relations.html,11/24/20,2020, speeches,"Pacific region are a driver of economic prosperity for Canada and for the world. By some estimates, just ten years from now, Asia will account for roughly 60% of the world’s economic growth.The bilateral and multilateral relationships we foster and the region’s stability create jobs, open up markets, connect communities and support Canadian families here at home.As the world’s second largest economy and home to 1.4 billion people, China is a key actor in the region and beyond.Why China mattersThis year marks 50 years of diplomatic relations between Canada and China.50 years later, I don’t think anyone would say this is an easy relationship. Canadians Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor have now been arbitrarily detained for nearly two years.It is a complex and multidimensional one, not just for Canada, but for democracies around the world.China is changing before our eyes and at a rapid pace.We recognize China’s growing influence on the world stage, as a global hub for manufacturing, trade and lending … and the single largest trading nation in the world.It is the first trading partner of an astonishing 124 countries. It is the first trading partner in Africa, second in Latin America. And it is also an important trading partner for Canada for both imports and exports. Bilateral trade in goods and services between Canada and China increased eightfold over the last 20 years, from $10.6 billion in 2000 to $82.8 billion in 2019.In addition, China can be a key player on the world stage in the fight against climate change, COVID19, or to ensure the stability of financial markets and global economic development.With significant development assistance funding in Africa and Latin America, it gives China growing clout in the developing world.As an example, as part of its Belt and Road Initiative, China has signed cooperation agreements with 138 countries to build infrastructure that will connect it to developing countries. China’s banks have already provided loans worth over US $461 billion, raising many concerns over debt sustainability, transparency and international standards on labour and the environment.China’s ambition even reaches the Arctic region where it aims to develop shipping lanes, calling it the Polar Silk Road. This is a new reality we need to take into account and thus engage China with eyes wide open.The China of 2020 is not the China of 2015, or even the China of 2018.Its rise has brought with it troubling threats to human rights, to longstanding agreements of autonomy for places like Hong Kong, to freedom of expression, and to the international institutions that underpin the rulesbased order of which Canada is a steadfast promoter. We see a country and a leadership increasingly prepared to throw its weight around to advance its interests.This includes the use of coercive diplomacy, like the arbitrary detention of Canadians Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor to try to get their way.This, however, is not a sentiment unique to me or to Canada. Democracies around the world are rethinking their own relationship with China.Multilateralism will be key to ensuring global stability and security in a world in which China is a powerful actor. That’s why we are working with likeminded countries to defend the rulesbased international order and ensure China abides by its obligations under international human rights law.When dealing with China, we will be firmly guided by Canadian interests, our fundamental values and principles, including human rights, as well as global rules and strategic partnerships.Let me be clear, the safety and security of Canadians at home and abroad will always be at the heart of our approach.Tactics such as coercive diplomacy, including arbitrary detention, are unacceptable in the conduct of statetostate relations and this is something I have raised not just with our allies but directly with my Chinese counterpart.We do and we will continue to challenge China when it comes to human rights being violated and will always protect Canadians when it comes to our national security, compete with our innovative businesses and abundant resources that allow us to do so, and cooperate on global challenges like climate change because there is no easy path forward without China.How we engage – evolution & Canada’s actions in the past yearMICHAEL KOVRIG and MICHAEL SPAVORMore than 700 days have passed since the arbitrary arrest and detention of Mr. Kovrig and Mr. Spavor, as well as the arbitrary sentencing of Mr. Schellenberg, and we remain deeply concerned.We continue to call for the immediate release of Mr. Kovrig and Mr. Spavor, and for clemency for Mr. Schellenberg, as we do for all Canadians facing the death penalty.I know all members of this committee, indeed all Canadians, are angered by the detention of Mr. Kovrig and Mr. Spavor and are concerned for their wellbeing. I would also like to acknowledge the resilience demonstrated by the families and their support every step of the way.Finally, after many months, we recently secured onsite virtual consular access to Mr. Kovrig and Mr. Spavor. This is something I had personally raised in a meeting with my counterpart State Councilor Wang Yi in Rome in August this year and on which we worked tirelessly.Since October, Ambassador Barton has on two occasions travelled to the prisons in which they are being held to lead onsite virtual visits to personally confirm the health and wellbeing of these two Canadians while they remain unjustly detained.This is a very important development and we continue to work very hard to secure their release.HONG KONGTurning to Hong Kong, the imposition of the new National Security Law in Hong Kong has raised significant concerns about:The future of Hong Kong’s independent judiciary;The future of human rights and freedoms in the Special Administrative Region;The integrity of the One Country, Two Systems framework; And Hong Kong’s role as global hub.On November 11, we condemned China’s removal of four democratically elected lawmakers from office in Hong Kong. It is an assault on Hong Kong’s freedoms under the SinoBritish Joint Declaration.Alongside our partners, we continue to call on Chinese authorities to uphold international human rights obligations.We have been at the forefront of the international response to the National Security Law, issuing – often at our urging – statements alongside Australia, the UK, the United States, the G7, the Five Eyes, at the Human Rights Council, and most recently at the UN General Assembly’s Third Committee.We were also the first to suspend our extradition treaty with Hong Kong and have announced a series of other measures including export control measures and an update on travel advice for the region.Last week, you heard from my colleague Minister Mendicino on the immigration measures we have put in place. Our response to both Hong Kong and to China is one that crosses many departments and requires significant coordination.XINJIANGAs all of you I’m sure, I have been quite alarmed by the reports of gross human rights violations in Xinjiang. The violations target Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities on the basis of their religion and ethnicity.Publicly and privately, in multilateral and bilateral dialogues, we have called on the Chinese government to end the repression in Xinjiang.I have raised this directly with my Chinese counterpart, most recently in Rome this summer at a meeting which was called at my request.In September, we raised concerns about the human rights situation in Xinjiang and Hong Kong at the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva and in October, we were one of 39 countries signing the Third Committee’s declaration at UNGA in New York which referenced Xinjiang.We continue to call on the Chinese government to allow unfettered, meaningful access to Xinjiang to the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights and UN Special Procedures.This is something I have raised directly with Michelle Bachelet, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights. CONCLUSIONOur relationship with China is a complex one indeed.It is absolutely imperative that democracies like Canada and our likeminded partners work together to protect the international rules that have ensured stability and prosperity for decades. It is a challenge we all share. No country will succeed alone.Our Principled Strategic Approach to China goes well beyond our bilateral relationship; it is a global challenge. This is why we have been working with partners, especially when it comes to areas of fundamental disagreements with China.Now I know some like to talk tough on China.To those who are seduced by this onedimensional view I say this:While it is easy to be tough, let’s continue to be smart.Let’s not fall into the temptation of tough and irresponsible rhetoric that will generate no tangible results for Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor, our farmers and entrepreneurs, and human rights victims and advocates.I think Canadians know this. They know we must be smart in our approach, and we must be nimble.That is what is at stake here.I want to thank you for your time and for the role you as a committee are playing in shaping the CanadaChina relationship and informing the Canadian public about China.And as we discuss today, I invite you to take a broader and longer view of the CanadaChina relationship.I am here to hear your ideas and engage in a constructive dialogue with you about one of the most important geostrategic issues of our time.It is a feature of an open and successful country that we have these discussions.With that, I’m happy to take your questions."
42,Minister Ng hosts successful ministerial meeting of the Ottawa Group on WTO reform,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/11/minister-ng-hosts-successful-ministerial-meeting-of-the-ottawa-group-on-wto-reform.html,11/23/20,2020, news releases," Now more than ever, Canadian businesses—and the millions of hardworking Canadians they employ—rely on and benefit from an open, transparent, and rulesbased international trade system.Today, the Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, hosted a virtual ministerial meeting of the Ottawa Group on World Trade Organization (WTO) reform to discuss progress on the joint statement endorsed by all members in June to mitigate the impacts of COVID19 on people in Canada and around the world. As countries face a rise in COVID19 cases, it is essential that governments minimize disruptions to trade flows in essential medical supplies. Today, members of the Ottawa Group took important steps toward a proposed WTO Trade and Health Initiative, which identifies shortterm actions to streghten supply chains and ensure the free flow of medicines and medical supplies.Canada remains committed to leading the charge on broader WTO reform with the Ottawa Group, where ministers today had a productive discussion on efforts to modernize the WTO. They agreed to continue intensifying work on ecommerce and fisheries negotiations, as well as keeping agrifood markets open and predictable. Ministers also noted the importance of deepening discussions on trade and environmental sustainability at the WTO.Ottawa Group members also discussed the Singaporeled proposal to prohibit the use of export restrictions on food purchased for noncommercial humanitarian purposes by the World Food Programme to ensure food security for the world’s most vulnerable people. Ottawa Group members agreed to encourage the adoption of this proposal by the wider WTO membership at the upcoming December General Council meeting.Canada will continue to take a leadership role in modernizing the WTO so that Canadian businesses and workers alike benefit from global trade."
43,Canada successfully concludes talks on transitional trade continuity agreement with the United Kingdom,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/11/canada-successfully-concludes-talks-on-transitional-trade-continuity-agreement-with-the-united-kingdom.html,11/21/20,2020, news releases," In light of the United Kingdom’s departure from the European Union and by extension the CanadaEuropean Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), the Government of Canada has been working hard to ensure continuity for CanadaUnited Kingdom trade – especially now as we build a strong economic recovery from the COVID19 pandemic.Today, the Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, along with Elizabeth Truss, the United Kingdom’s Secretary of State for International Trade, announced the successful conclusion of talks for the CanadaUnited Kingdom Trade Continuity Agreement  an interim deal that will be in place as Canada and the United Kingdom work towards negotiating a comprehensive free trade agreement.As CETA will no longer apply to the United Kingdom beginning January 1, 2021, this new agreement will provide continued access to the benefits of CETA on a bilateral basis, including the elimination of tariffs on 98% of Canadian products exported to the United Kingdom. This will provide a competitive edge to Canadian exporters and businesses who will maintain preferential access to the United Kingdom market, even as the country exits the EU.This agreement will provide stability and predictability for businesses, exporters, and workers in both Canada and the United Kingdom. It will also maintain Canada's high standards for businesses, workers, and the environment while ensuring the continuity and efficiency of the country’s supplymanaged products system.Canada and the United Kingdom have long shared a profound and positive relationship, with a long history of working closely together. The Government of Canada will continue to work closely with the United Kingdom to further enhance the bilateral trade relationship, including through a mutual commitment to negotiate a comprehensive free trade agreement that can be best tailored to the bilateral relationship and interests. The government looks forward to consulting with Canadians and the provinces and territories, before going back to the negotiating table with the United Kingdom and will always prioritize the needs of Canadian workers and businesses.Canada is committed to continued strong and stable trading relationships with both the United Kingdom and the EU to support our shared economic prosperity."
44,Statement on World Children’s Day,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/11/statement-on-world-childrens-day.html,11/20/20,2020, statements," The Honourable Karina Gould, Minister of International Development, today issued the following statement:“On World Children’s Day, Canada commits to taking action to improve the lives of children so that they can thrive and achieve their dreams and potential. The challenges are considerable. Worldwide, COVID19 has disrupted the lives of 9 out of 10 learners. Almost 200 million of them are children, including adolescents and youths, living in countries facing humanitarian crises.“Canada’s focus is on reaching the world’s most vulnerable and marginalized children, including refugees, forcibly displaced children, and children in host communities. Without school feeding programs, these children face food insecurity. Without school, they are missing out on a safe place to grow and thrive. For the most vulnerable children, school provides safety, access to vital nutrition and health services and the opportunity of a brighter future.“Refugee and other forcibly displaced children are disproportionately harmed by the COVID19 pandemic. When schools are closed, girls and adolescent girls are at greater risk of genderbased violence and child, early and forced marriage. The United Nations estimates that there will be 13 million additional cases due to COVID19 alone of child, early and forced marriage over the next few years, with at least 4 million of these marriages happening in the next 2 years. Many of these marriages could be prevented if girls were in school.“Every child deserves a quality education in an environment that is safe and inclusive—even in the midst of a pandemic. We know the value each child and young person brings to a society and we know the potential that can be unlocked through education. Every child deserves that chance. The transformative power of education opens doors to better health, wellbeing and opportunity. These doors must be open to all.”"
45,Statement on situation in Ethiopia,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/11/statement-on-situation-in-ethiopia.html,11/17/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement:“Canada is deeply concerned by recent developments in Ethiopia, including ongoing reports of violence and allegations of atrocities.“We urge all parties to protect civilians and ensure that human rights, humanitarian access, and international law are respected, and for a peaceful resolution to be sought by all parties.“Canada calls for a thorough investigation into reported massacres and to bring those responsible to justice.“Canada also condemns the recent attacks on civilian targets in Eritrea by the Tigray People’s Liberation Front.“These attacks threaten to escalate an already severe conflict, causing further loss of life and the displacement of individuals and families.“Canadian citizens in Eritrea requiring emergency consular assistance should contact the Embassy of Canada to Sudan in Khartoum at 249 156 550 500. Canadian citizens in Ethiopia requiring emergency consular assistance should contact the Embassy of Canada in Addis Ababa at 251 (0) 11 317 0000. Canadians in Eritrea and Ethiopia requiring emergency consular assistance may also contact Global Affairs Canada’s Emergency Watch and Response Centre by calling +1 613 996 8885 (call collect where available) or by sending an email to sos@international.gc.ca.”"
46,Media Freedom Coalition ministerial communiqué,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/11/media-freedom-coalition-ministerial-communique.html,11/16/20,2020, statements,"We, the members of the Media Freedom Coalition, held our first ministeriallevel meeting on November 16, 2020, to exchange views and coordinate action in the defence of media freedom worldwide. The ministerial meeting took place as part of the second Global Conference for Media Freedom, cohosted by Canada and Botswana.The Media Freedom Coalition is a partnership of countries working together to advocate for and support media freedom, online as well as offline, and the safety of journalists and media workers. The Coalition aims to promote accountability for those who harm journalists and media workers or unduly restrict them from doing their job.All members have signed the Global Pledge on Media Freedom. As signatories, each member has made the commitment to work together to improve media freedom and the safety of journalists both at home and abroad.We recalled that attacks on media freedom are also attacks on human rights, including the right to freedom of expression enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and international human rights treaties, including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.We underlined that media freedom is essential to the protection of human rights by making the facts about human rights violations and abuses public.We further affirmed that a free media is the cornerstone of democracy. People need free and independent media to provide them with accurate information, facilitate informed public debate and discussion, hold governments accountable, and serve as a watchdog for the public interest.We underlined the link between media freedom and economic development and prosperity, including the Agenda 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.We expressed alarm at the continued decline in media freedom driven in part by the rise of authoritarianism and the use of digital technologies to restrict media freedom. This has resulted in, inter alia, unduly restrictive laws, arbitrary and/or unlawful surveillance, censorship, undue interference in the circulation of information online, and physical violence, exacerbated by financial threats to media independence and sustainability.We commended the crucial role played by journalists and media workers and paid tribute to those who have lost their lives in the exercise of their profession.Media Freedom Coalition ministers met in the midst of the unprecedented COVID19 pandemic, which is affecting all parts of the world, imposing a tremendous cost on societies, exacerbating preexisting vulnerabilities, causing societal changes, and further undermining media freedom.We commended journalists and other media workers, including those reporting on this health crisis. Their work serves to keep societies informed, to promote proper health measures, and to counter false or misleading information.We expressed concern at the efforts of some states to use the crisis as an excuse to put in place undue restrictions on a free and independent media. We also expressed concern that some states have undertaken pandemicrelated disinformation campaigns to undermine trust in democratic political systems and their pandemic responses.We urged governments to continue guaranteeing the freedom and independence of the media and the safety of journalists and other media professionals, as well as to refrain from imposing undue restrictions in the fight against COVID19.We recognized the worrying growth of threats against journalists, both online and offline, that attempt to intimidate journalists and media organizations into silence.We condemned unequivocally all attacks and violence against journalists and media workers, such as torture, extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, and arbitrary detention, as well as intimidation and harassment in both conflict and nonconflict situations.We urged governments to promote a safe and enabling environment for journalists to perform their work without undue interference, including interference by means of legislative measures, unlawful or arbitrary surveillance, enforcement of excessive libel laws, and other measures that prevent journalists from carrying out their work.We recognized that impunity for attacks against journalists constitutes one of the main challenges to strengthening the protection of journalists.We called upon governments to do their utmost to prevent violence against journalists and media workers, to ensure accountability through the conduct of investigations into alleged violence against journalists within their jurisdictions, to bring the perpetrators of such crimes to justice, and to ensure that victims have access to appropriate remedies.We underlined that human rights, including those involving media freedom, must be protected online just as they are protected offline and acknowledged the transformative role of digital technologies in supporting access to and the dissemination of information and ideas.We reaffirmed the responsibilities of intermediaries, such as social media platforms and search engines, to respect human rights and defend media freedom, given their effects on the exercise of the right to freedom of expression.We expressed concern regarding measures taken by intermediaries to limit access to or remove content online, including through automated processes, such as algorithms, which have not been made transparent and the use of which may unduly restrict access to information.We expressed profound concern about and condemned the growing trend of intentional, governmentimposed Internet shutdowns, as well as targeted content filtration and removal. Governmentimposed network restrictions, whether partial or complete, limit media freedom and the ability of journalists and human rights defenders to report on human rights violations or abuses and hold governments accountable.We acknowledged the profound impact the use of artificial intelligence may have on media freedom, including the potential for enhanced capacity for largescale unlawful and/or arbitrary surveillance of journalists and censorship of the media, and the algorithmic curation of news without transparency or accountability.We expressed concern at laws, punitive legal measures and physical violence that have restricted journalists’ and media organizations’ vital work, often under the guise of addressing disinformation.We expressed profound concern about the chilling effect on media freedom of the proliferation of overly broad “fake news” laws and the rise in arrests and detentions of journalists on the charge of “fake news.”We expressed concern about the erosion of public trust, due to the proliferation of misinformation and disinformation, interfering with the public’s need to access information of public interest and value for democratic participation.We stressed the need for potential solutions to disinformation to be rooted in respect for human rights, freedom of expression, and democracy.We commended initiatives by civil society to tackle the issue of access to reliable information during infodemics, and we called on intermediaries, including social media platforms, to be part of global efforts to protect media freedom while respecting the key principles of transparency and respecting human rights.On the 25th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform of Action, we recognized the imperative to undertake a genderresponsive approach to the protection and promotion of media freedom and recalled the important role media plays in shaping the public’s perception of women in society and the media’s role in the advancement of gender equality.We acknowledged the genderspecific risks faced by women journalists in the exercise of their work, including sexual and genderbased violence, harassment, online and offline attacks, stalking, and intimidation.We underlined that the multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination, intimidation, and violence against women journalists have a broader negative effect on gender equality and women’s rights and empowerment by silencing the voices of women, including their experiences and concerns.A healthy information ecosystem depends on a free, independent, plural, accessible, and diverse media. This includes diversity of representation, with different lived experiences within media organizations themselves, acknowledging the importance of intersectionality in promoting inclusion and respect for diversity.We therefore recognized the importance of representation in the media of groups that have often themselves been the subject of multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination and other human rights violations and abuses, including members of racial, ethnic and religious minorities; persons with disabilities; and lesbian, gay bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) persons.We acknowledged the additional risks faced by journalists based on their sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression.We recognized the unprecedented economic challenges facing media due to a significant decline in advertisement revenue and the farreaching effects of the COVID19 pandemic.We expressed concern that these challenges may significantly affect the health of the global information ecosystem by reducing the diversity of views disseminated to the public and putting at risk the independence of the press, with potentially corrosive effects on democratic governance. We welcomed the launch of a new working group to address the issue of media sustainability by the Forum on Information and Democracy.Ministers discussed a range of policy options and best practices to strengthen media freedom worldwide.We called on members of the Media Freedom Coalition to consider:providing safe refuge for journalists at risk who have been targeted for their workincreasing coordination and investment in media development spending to support media independence, accessibility, and sustainabilityproviding consistent and longterm support for building robust collaborative national efforts addressing the safety of journalists and the issue of impunityengaging in concerted advocacy as a vocal group committed to defending media freedomstrengthening measures to foster an enabling legal environment for freedom of expression, including for members of the mediaseeking greater inclusion of the issue of the safety of journalists in the processes of the relevant UN and regional human rights bodiesimplementing genderresponsive measures to protecting the safety of journalists that recognize and address the genderspecific risks faced by women and intersecting marginalized groups, including racial, ethnic and religious minorities, persons with disabilities, and persons in vulnerable situations, including LGBTI personsadopting and applying targeted sanctions against known perpetrators of human rights violations and abuses in response to the repression of journalists and restrictions on media freedomcondemning all attacks against journalists and countering the increasing stigmatization and denigration of journalists by public officialsworking with digital intermediaries, such as social media platforms, to promote preventative measures against the misuse of their products in ways that unduly restrict media freedomexploring best practices to tackle the rise of infodemics and reflecting upon the proposals made by the group of experts from the Forum on Information and DemocracyWe underscored the important role played by international and regional organizations in the protection and promotion of media freedom, including the UN, UNESCO, the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, the Organization of American States, the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, and the Council of Europe.We welcomed Belize and Botswana as the newest members of the Media Freedom Coalition, expanding the ranks of those countries supporting the objectives of media freedom.We welcomed the ongoing work of the independent High Level Panel of Legal Experts on Media Freedom to provide advice to governments to prevent and reverse repression of media freedom.We noted with appreciation the recommendations contained in the initial reports of the High Level Legal Panel on the use of targeted sanctions to protect journalists and on consular assistance.We look forward to the publication of subsequent reports for our consideration ahead of the next ministeriallevel meeting of the Media Freedom Coalition.We commended the work of the civil society Advisory Network of the Media Freedom Coalition in providing expert counsel and in identifying cases of concern to be addressed through diplomatic intervention.We committed to strengthen the working methods of the Coalition to be more responsive to cases of concern identified by the Advisory Network and other members of the Coalition.We welcomed the progress made by UNESCO in supporting initiatives through the Global Media Defence Fund, including for grassroots organizations around the world.We welcomed the contributions of new donors to this fund, which will expand the reach and sustainability of the fund.We look forward to the next ministerial meeting of the Media Freedom Coalition, in Estonia in 2021, to renew commitments and to discuss emerging threats and opportunities.We look forward to the World Press Freedom Conference, on December 9 and 10, 2020, in The Hague, organized by the Netherlands and UNESCO.Afghanistan, Argentina, Austria, Botswana, Bulgaria, Canada, Costa Rica, Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Ghana, Greece, Honduras, Iceland, Japan, Kosovo, Latvia, Lebanon*, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Maldives, Montenegro, the Netherlands, North Macedonia, Serbia, Seychelles, Slovakia, Sudan, Switzerland, Ukraine, the United Kingdom, Uruguay, the United States*Lebanon aligns itself with the statement, with reservations.Ottawa November 16, 2020"
47,Canada and United Kingdom announce recipient of first Media Freedom Award,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/11/canada-and-united-kingdom-announce-recipient-of-first-media-freedom-award.html,11/16/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Dominic Raab, the United Kingdom’s First Secretary of State and Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, today announced the winner of the first CanadaUnited Kingdom Media Freedom Award to recognize the journalists, individuals and organizations that actively promote and protect media freedom.This year’s winner, the Belarusian Association of Journalists, was singled out for its ongoing commitment to journalistic ethics and principles and its perseverance and selfsacrifice in the face of increased targeted crackdowns on media in Belarus.The announcement was made jointly during this year’s Global Conference for Media Freedom, held virtually on November 16, 2020, and hosted by Canada and Botswana. The conference builds on the success of its inaugural session, held in London, United Kingdom, in 2019.Attendees discussed the impacts of COVID19 on media freedom, the increasing damage of disinformation to public trust in journalism and the prevalence of physical threats to journalists.The establishment of the Media Freedom Award is one part of CanadianU.K. efforts to drive international action on improving the safety of journalists around the world."
48,Canada concludes second Global Conference for Media Freedom at time of unprecedented challenge ,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/11/canada-concludes-second-global-conference-for-media-freedom-at-time-of-unprecedented-challenge.html,11/16/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, cohosted today the second Global Conference for Media Freedom with Kabo Neale Sechele Morwaeng, Botswana’s Minister for Presidential Affairs, Governance and Public Administration.Around the globe, media freedom is under attack. Disinformation campaigns, foreign interference in democratic processes, threats to journalists and the misuse of COVID19 emergency measures are eroding media freedom.As part of the conference, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau addressed participants, underlined key issues surrounding media freedom and highlighted how free media is a cornerstone of our democracy.Minister Champagne and the Honourable Karina Gould, Minister of International Development, announced an additional $1 million in funding for the UNESCO Global Media Defence Fund, which was established by Canada and the United Kingdom to help enhance media access to legal assistance. They also announced $1.5 million for the Lifeline Project to Tackle the COVID19 Infodemic, a BBC Media Action project working with journalists in Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Ethiopia and Indonesia to create clear, factbased COVID19 content.Over the course of this successful conference, three new countries—Australia, Belize and Botswana—joined the 37 members of the Media Freedom Coalition for its first ministerial meeting. The coalition issued a joint ministerial communiqué that reiterates its commitment to the Global Pledge on Media Freedom and urges governments to protect the independence and safety of media professionals.In addition, Michelle Bachelet, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, delivered the keynote address, and the HighLevel Panel of Legal Experts on Media Freedom, chaired by David Neuberger and deputychaired by Amal Clooney, presented evidenceinformed advice to governments on how best to counter threats to media freedom.The conference closed with the presentation of the first CanadaUnited Kingdom Global Award for Media Freedom to the Belarusian Association of Journalists in recognition of their tireless efforts to defend the right of journalists to conduct their essential work.Canada and Botswana are pleased to announce that Estonia will host the 2021 Global Conference for Media Freedom."
49,Minister Ng concludes productive Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation annual ministerial meeting,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/11/minister-ng-concludes-productive-asia-pacific-economic-cooperation-annual-ministerial-meeting.html,11/16/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, today participated virtually in the annual ministerial meeting of AsiaPacific Economic Cooperation (APEC).Ministers welcomed APEC’s post2020 vision statement, which reaffirms the commitment to an open, rulesbased multilateral trading system that benefits everyone.The COVID19 pandemic has shown how interconnected the world is. It has also accelerated the need for international partners to work together to keep supply chains open and essential goods flowing, such as food and medicine.During the meeting, Minister Ng highlighted the importance of a strong multilateral trading system supported by coordinated, sustainable, and inclusive trade policies that will help people overcome the challenges of COVID19.Minister Ng spoke about Canada’s commitment to ensuring all Canadians can gain the full benefits of international trade, including small businesses, women entrepreneurs, and Indigenous peoples. She underscored the importance of supporting small businesses worldwide and the millions of people they employ. She emphasized that the success of small businesses is key to Canada’s postpandemic recovery and longterm economic prosperity.Minister Ng and other APEC ministers recognized the promotion of the health and wellbeing of their peoples, as well as growth that benefits everyone, as the foundation of a strong and sustainable global economic recovery."
50,Media Freedom Coalition’s Executive Group statement on media freedom in Egypt,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/11/media-freedom-coalitions-executive-group-statement-on-media-freedom-in-egypt.html,11/13/20,2020, statements," The undersigned members of the Media Freedom Coalition’s Executive Group express concern at the continued restrictions on media freedom in Egypt, including the recent arrest and intimidation of individuals associated with journalist Khaled elBalshy, editorinchief of the news website Darb. In particular, the Coalition is concerned by the arrest of Kamal elBalshy, brother of Khaled, on September 20, 2020. The Coalition urges authorities to allow journalists in Egypt to practise their profession without fear of arrest or reprisal.Canada, Germany, Latvia, Netherlands and the United Kingdom"
51,Biographical notes,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/11/biographical-notes.html,11/13/20,2020, backgrounders,"Mark Berman (BA [Political Science and International Relations], University of Saskatchewan, 1982; LLB, University of Saskatchewan, 1986; LLM, London School of Economics, 1989) joined the Government of Canada in 1989 as adviser to the Minister of the Environment and then served as executive assistant to the Deputy Minister of the Environment. In 1993, he joined the UN Environment Programme in Nairobi as a legal officer. After 6 years in Nairobi and Geneva, he returned to Canada as a director in the Office of the Commissioner of the Environment and Sustainable Development. He then joined the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) in 2000 as deputy director for Human Security and Peacebuilding. In 2005, he returned to Environment Canada as director for Climate Change Negotiations. In 2008, he was seconded to CIDA’s Multilateral Branch as acting director general for Environmental Sustainability and Economic Growth. In 2009, Mr. Berman joined Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada as executive director for Climate and Energy and Canada’s representative on the Kyoto Protocol’s Compliance Committee. In 2012, he served as executive director for International Crime and Terrorism and was then appointed director general for Consular Policy in 2017.Christina Buchan (BA Hons [Political Studies and French], St. Lawrence University, 1998; MA [Political Science], Queen’s University, 1999) joined the Canadian International Development Agency in 2003. During her time at Headquarters, she served as director of the Sudan Program (2009 to 2011), the Colombia and Bolivia programs (2011 to 2012), global health (2013 to 2014) and humanitarian organizations and food assistance (2014 to 2016). Positions overseas include Afghanistan (2005 to 2006), where she served as first secretary (development) in Kabul and then development adviser to the military’s Regional Command South in Kandahar. In addition, she was a consultant for UNICEF and the World Food Programme in Jordan (2016 to 2019). Jeannette Menzies (BA Hons [Canadian Studies], University of Manitoba, 1995; MA [Canadian Heritage and Development Studies], Trent University, 1998) joined the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade in 2001. At Headquarters, from 2006 to 2013, she served in various roles, including senior adviser to the assistant deputy minister of Consular Affairs and Emergency Management, deputy director of Circumpolar Affairs and deputy director of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Response. Abroad, from 2003 to 2006, she served as political officer in Ankara, where she was responsible for bilateral relations with Georgia, Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan. From 2013 to 2015, she served as head of the Canadian International Centre for the Arctic Region in Oslo during Canada’s chairmanship of the Arctic Council. From 2015 to 2019, she was a director at Polar Knowledge Canada, where she established domestic and international partnerships at the Canadian High Arctic Research Station Campus in Nunavut. She is currently senior adviser in the Nordic and Polar Relations Division.Adrian Norfolk (BA [Geography], University of Victoria, 1977; BEd [Geography and Economics], University of London, 1978) joined External Affairs and International Trade Canada as a foreign service officer in 1994 after a 14year career with the World University Service of Canada (including postings in Nigeria, Malawi and Sri Lanka). At Headquarters, he served as deputy director with the Human Rights Division, director of the Policy and Advocacy Division of the Afghanistan Task Force, special adviser with the Stabilization and Reconstruction Task Force, and coordinator of the Interdepartmental Task Force on International Critical Incidents. Abroad, Mr. Norfolk served at the Embassy to Malaysia (1995 to 1998) and as counsellor (political) in both India (2004 to 2008) and Afghanistan (2008 to 2009). From 2011 to 2012, he established and headed the Office of the Embassy of Canada in South Sudan, and from 2015 to 2018, he was ambassador to Qatar. In 2018, he became chargé d’affaires en pied in Sudan.Giles Norman (BA Hons, Lancaster University, 1990; LLB, Queen’s University, 1996) joined the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade in 1999 after being called to the Bar of the Law Society of Ontario in 1998. His overseas assignments include political officer in Ankara (2001 to 2004), political and trade counsellor in Colombo (2007 to 2009) and firstever director of the Canadian International Centre for the Arctic Region in Oslo (2009 to 2012), where he also served as chargé d’affaires for 9 months. After Oslo, he was posted to New York City until 2016 as the counsellor (legal, human rights, humanitarian) and legal counsel at the Permanent Mission to the United Nations. At Headquarters, he has held a series of posts in the Legal Bureau and was deputy director of the Maghreb and Persian Gulf Division (2004 to 2007). Most recently, he was executive director of the Defence and Security Relations Division."
52,Biographical notes,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/11/biographical-notes.html,11/13/20,2020, backgrounders,"Lilian Chatterjee (BJ Hons [Journalism], Carleton University, 1980; MA, Norman Paterson School of International Affairs, Carleton University, 1985) started her career as a journalist, and then worked at the House of Commons and subsequently for several international nongovernmental organizations. She joined the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) in 2003. Ms. Chatterjee served as director general in both CIDA and . Most recently, she served as high commissioner in Guyana, with concurrent accreditation as ambassador to Suriname and plenipotentiary representative of Canada to the Caribbean Community.Rodger Cuzner (BA [Human Kinetics], St. Francis Xavier University) was first elected to the House of Commons in November 2000 as the member of Parliament for Bras d’or—Cape Breton. He was reelected in 5 subsequent elections before his recent retirement in October 2019. During his 19 years in Ottawa, Mr. Cuzner served in several roles, including parliamentary secretary to former prime minister Jean Chrétien, chief opposition whip and parliamentary secretary to the Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development. In his early years in Parliament, Mr. Cuzner focused on matters surrounding both veterans affairs and fisheries and oceans. More recently, much of his attention was directed toward workforce development and national labour issues. As an elected official representing the iconic northern Nova Scotia and Cape Breton Island, he worked with community and industry to build and mature the tourism sector. Prior to this appointment, Mr. Cuzner worked in the private sector as senior adviser at Rubicon Strategy in Ottawa. A graduate of St. Francis Xavier University, Rodger grew up in Glace Bay, Nova Scotia.Wendy Drukier (BA Hons [Politics, Economics], Queen’s University, 1990; MA, Norman Paterson School of International Affairs, Carleton University, 1994) joined the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade in 1997. Her first posting abroad was at the embassy in Buenos Aires (1999 to 2002). She then served as political counsellor in Bogotá (2007 to 2009) and at Canada’s Permanent Mission to the Organization of American States in Washington, D.C. (2010 to 2012), where she was also director of the department’s Hemispheric Affairs Division. From 2012 to 2015, she served as ambassador to Costa Rica, Honduras and Nicaragua. During her time at Headquarters, she has held a number of positions, including deputy director in the Stabilization and Reconstruction Programs Division and director general, international organizations. Most recently, she served as director general, economic development.Alain Gendron (BA [Economics], Sherbrooke University, 1986) joined External Affairs and International Trade Canada in 1992. Overseas, he was assigned to the high commission in Singapore (1995 to 1998) as third secretary and trade commissioner and to the embassy in Beijing (2002 to 2005) as second secretary and trade commissioner. He served as deputy consul general and senior trade commissioner at the consulate general in Shanghai (2005 to 2008). At Headquarters, he has held several director positions, including in the Africa Commercial Relations Division (2008 to 2010), Northeast Asia Division (2010 to 2014), Systems and Analysis Division for the Trade Commissioner Service (2014 to 2016) and the Cabinet and Parliamentary Affairs Division (2016 to 2017). Most recently, Mr. Gendron was the director of the Europe Bilateral and Advocacy Division.BenoîtPierre Laramée (BSc [Geological Engineering], Montréal Polytechnic, 1979; DESS [Energy Sector Management], HEC Montréal, 1988; MSc [Project Management], University of Quebec at Montréal, 1990) spent nearly 10 years working as a geophysicist in Canada and Senegal before joining the City of Montréal and then, working in Guinea and Mali, the Centre for International Studies and Cooperation. He joined the Canadian International Development Agency in 2000, working until 2004 in PortauPrince, where he held 2 director positions. In 2004, he returned to Ottawa to become manager of the ResultsBased Management Unit, a position he held until 2007, at which time he was appointed senior departmental assistant to the minister. From 2008 to 2011, he was director of the InterAmerican Regional Program. He was high commissioner in Cameroon from 2011 to 2015 and served as high commissioner in Bangladesh from 2015 to 2017. Mr. Laramée served most recently as ministercounsellor in Bridgetown, where he was simultaneously senior director of the Caribbean Development Program and Canadian director at the Caribbean Development Bank.Isabelle Valois (BA Specialist/Hons [International Development], University of Toronto, 1992) began her international career in Colombia and in Malawi; in the latter, she was program associate with UNICEF Malawi through the World University Service of Canada. She then worked for another 12 years in the nongovernmental sector. In 2004, she joined the Canadian International Development Agency, where she held several positions in the Middle East and North Africa bureaus, including chief of operations, Middle East. From 2009 to 2011, she served as head of development cooperation at the Embassy to Jordan and Iraq. While there, she was also the director of the Regional Human Rights and Peacebuilding Fund (2008 to 2010). From 2011 to 2016, she served as head of development cooperation at the Embassy to Morocco. Most recently at Headquarters, in 2016, Ms. Valois became director for global citizens."
53,Biographical notes,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/11/biographical-notes.html,11/13/20,2020, backgrounders,"Behzad Babakhani (BSc, McGill University, 1992; LLB, University of Manitoba, 1996) practised family and criminal law before joining the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade in 1999. He has served at Headquarters in various positions, including as law officer (sanctions), economic policy officer (AsiaPacific Economic Cooperation) and director of Consular Affairs, responsible for complex and children’s cases. He has also served as an executive in the Privy Council Office (Afghanistan Task Force), where he received the clerk’s Excellence Award in 2011. Abroad, he has had assignments in South Korea (second secretary), Malaysia (counsellor), Mexico (deputy head of mission and ministercounsellor) and Monterrey (consul general). Most recently, Mr. Babakhani was director for Northeast Asia and Oceania and chair of the department’s Visible Minorities Network.Louis Dumas (BA [Translation], Laval University, 1986; MSc [Management], Boston University, 1999) started his career in government in 1990 in Moscow and then held positions in Cairo and Tel Aviv. Upon returning to Canada, Mr. Dumas occupied the position of program and policy adviser to the assistant deputy minister of operations at Citizenship and Immigration Canada. He also worked in key positions at the Canada Border Services Agency. He returned overseas in 2007 as immigration program manager in Singapore and then became the immigration program manager in Beijing. In 2013, he returned to Canada, where he was asked to initiate a major centralization project of visa processing. Mr. Dumas then served as director general of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada’s (IRCC’s) Domestic Network. Most recently, he served as director general of transformation at IRCC.Michael Gort (BA Combined Hons [Economics and Political Science], Western University, 1987; MA [International Affairs], Carleton University, 1990) joined the Canadian International Development Agency in 2003, after more than 10 years working for Canadian nongovernmental organizations in Canada and Central America, as well as on assignments with the United Nations and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe. During his time at  Headquarters, he has served as director general of international organizations (2017 to 2020) and as director of the UN, Commonwealth and Francophonie Division (2010 to 2013). Positions overseas included San José (2015 to 2017), where he served as ambassador to Costa Rica, Honduras and Nicaragua; Rome (2013 to 2015), where he served as deputy permanent representative to the food and agriculture agencies of the UN; and Accra (2008 to 2010), as director of development and head of aid.Annick Goulet (BA Hons [Political Science] and Second Program, Modern Languages [Japanese and Russian], McGill University, 1992; DES [Journalism], École supérieure de journalisme de Paris [graduate school of journalism in Paris], 1994) joined the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade in 1999, after having worked as a journalist in Canada, Europe and Asia (1992 to 1998). During her time at Headquarters, she was deputy director for Japan (2008 to 2009) and for nuclear policy (2009 to 2010), director for nonproliferation and disarmament (2010 to 2011) and for commercial affairs with EU and European Free Trade Association countries (2014 to 2015). While in Ottawa, she also had an assignment in the Privy Council Office’s Foreign Policy and Defence Secretariat (2006 to 2007). Positions abroad include a secondment to Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (2002 to 2003) and a posting at Canada’s embassy in Tokyo (2003 to 2006). She served as counsellor and senior trade commissioner at the embassy in Beijing (2012 to 2014) and, most recently, as ministercounsellor (economic and trade) at the embassy in Moscow (2016 to 2020), where she also served as chargé d’affaires for Armenia and Uzbekistan (2018 to 2019).Christine Laberge (BA [Political Science], University of Montréal, 1998; MA [Management], University of Montréal, 2000) joined Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada in 2000. At Headquarters, she was director of the Centre of Learning for International Affairs and Global Leadership (2018 to 2020). She has held various positions abroad, including at the consulate in Barcelona (2011 to 2015), the consulate general in Rio de Janeiro (2001 to 2004) and the embassy in The Hague (2007).Denis Robert (BA [Political Science], Laval University, 1983; MSc [Political Science], University of Montréal, 1987) joined the Department of External Affairs in 1989 after working as a research associate at the Institute of Intergovernmental Relations at Queen’s University. He served as second secretary (commercialNAFTA) in Mexico City (1989 to 1993). In 1996, he was seconded to the École nationale d’administration [national school of administration] in Paris. In 1998, he participated in the diplomatic exchange program between the French and Canadian ministries of foreign affairs. He served as counsellor (commercial) in Paris (1998 to 2001), as head of the political section at the Mission to the European Union in Brussels (2004 to 2007) and as head of the political section at the embassy in PortauPrince (2007 to 2008). He was ambassador to Belgium and Luxembourg (2012 to 2016). At Headquarters, he has served in the European Union Division (1993 to 1996), as deputy director of the Western Europe Division and as director of the Haiti Task Force (2008 to 2012). Most recently, he served as director of foreign policy research.Emina Tudakovic (BA [Political Science], University of British Columbia, 1995; MA [Political Science], University of British Columbia, 1998) joined Citizenship and Immigration Canada in 2000. Following a first posting in New Delhi, she worked on international migration policy in bilateral and multilateral contexts. She served in the Humanitarian Affairs section of Canada’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations in Geneva (2006 to 2010), during which time she served 2 terms on the United Nations Refugee Agency’s Executive Bureau as rapporteur. On her return to Canada in 2010, Ms. Tudakovic held a number of directorlevel positions at Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada and was responsible for the overseas operational planning and implementation of Operation Syrian Refugee. In 2016, she took a position at the embassy in Ankara as area director for migration programs for the Middle East.David Verbiwski (BSc [Physics], Bishop’s University, 1996) worked in the private sector in Indonesia and in the natural resources sector in Canada before joining the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade in 2001. During his time at Headquarters, he served in the Latin America and Caribbean Division (2001 to 2002), as deputy director in the Strategic Trade Planning and Performance Measurement Division (2009 to 2010) and as deputy director responsible for nuclear compliance and cooperation in the NonProliferation and Disarmament Division (2018 to 2020). He has held various positions abroad, including trade commissioner in Jakarta (2002 to 2005), trade program manager in São Paulo (2005 to 2009), regional senior trade commissioner for eastern Africa in Nairobi (2010 to 2013) and commercial counsellor in Havana (2014 to 2018)."
54,Biographical notes,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/11/biographical-notes.html,11/13/20,2020, backgrounders,"Sylvain Fabi (BBA, Bishop’s University, 1988) joined the Trade Commissioner Service of External Affairs and International Trade Canada in 1992. At Headquarters, he worked as desk officer for Scandinavia and then Russia in the Europe Branch (1992 to 1995); as trade policy officer in the Market Access Division (1998 to 1999); as deputy director, Overseas Operations Division (1999 to 2001); as senior departmental adviser to the minister of international trade (2009 to 2010); and as director for bilateral relations with South America and the Caribbean (2010 to 2013). From 2013 until 2015, he was executive director of the North America Policy and Relations Division. Mr. Fabi’s assignments abroad include trade commissioner at the embassy in Moscow (1995 to 1998), commercial counsellor at the embassy in Havana (2001 to 2005) and commercial counsellor at the embassy in Santiago (2005 to 2009). Mr. Fabi served as high commissioner in Jamaica and the Bahamas (2013 to 2017). He became executive director, U.S. Transboundary Affairs Division, in 2017.André François Giroux (LLB [Civil Law], University of Montréal, 1992; LLM [International Business Law], McGill University, 1994; LLM [European Community Law], College of Europe, 1995; MBA, University of Montréal, 2001) joined the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade in 1995. He served abroad at the Permanent Mission to the United Nations in New York (1996 to 1999), in part during Canada’s term on the Security Council, and as counsellor at the embassy to France (2004 to 2008). In Canada, he has had assignments in the International Trade Law Bureau, in the International Economic Relations and Summits Division and in the Office of Protocol. From 2008 to 2010, he was director of the NonProliferation, Disarmament and Space Division, and from 2010 to 2012, director of the Office of the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs. Most recently, Mr. Giroux was the NAFTA secretary and director of the Trade Agreements Secretariat, after having served as ambassador to Denmark from 2012 to 2016."
55,Biographical notes,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/10/biographical-notes.html,10/30/20,2020, backgrounders,"Mark Berman (BA [Political Science and International Relations], University of Saskatchewan, 1982; LLB, University of Saskatchewan, 1986; LLM, London School of Economics, 1989) joined the Government of Canada in 1989 as adviser to the Minister of the Environment and then served as executive assistant to the Deputy Minister of the Environment. In 1993, he joined the UN Environment Programme in Nairobi as a legal officer. After 6 years in Nairobi and Geneva, he returned to Canada as a director in the Office of the Commissioner of the Environment and Sustainable Development. He then joined the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) in 2000 as deputy director for Human Security and Peacebuilding. In 2005, he returned to Environment Canada as director for Climate Change Negotiations. In 2008, he was seconded to CIDA’s Multilateral Branch as acting director general for Environmental Sustainability and Economic Growth. In 2009, Mr. Berman joined Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada as executive director for Climate and Energy and Canada’s representative on the Kyoto Protocol’s Compliance Committee. In 2012, he served as executive director for International Crime and Terrorism and was then appointed director general for Consular Policy in 2017.Christina Buchan (BA Hons [Political Studies and French], St. Lawrence University, 1998; MA [Political Science], Queen’s University, 1999) joined the Canadian International Development Agency in 2003. During her time at Headquarters, she served as director of the Sudan Program (2009 to 2011), the Colombia and Bolivia programs (2011 to 2012), global health (2013 to 2014) and humanitarian organizations and food assistance (2014 to 2016). Positions overseas include Afghanistan (2005 to 2006), where she served as first secretary (development) in Kabul and then development adviser to the military’s Regional Command South in Kandahar. In addition, she was a consultant for UNICEF and the World Food Programme in Jordan (2016 to 2019). Jeannette Menzies (BA Hons [Canadian Studies], University of Manitoba, 1995; MA [Canadian Heritage and Development Studies], Trent University, 1998) joined the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade in 2001. At Headquarters, from 2006 to 2013, she served in various roles, including senior adviser to the assistant deputy minister of Consular Affairs and Emergency Management, deputy director of Circumpolar Affairs and deputy director of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Response. Abroad, from 2003 to 2006, she served as political officer in Ankara, where she was responsible for bilateral relations with Georgia, Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan. From 2013 to 2015, she served as head of the Canadian International Centre for the Arctic Region in Oslo during Canada’s chairmanship of the Arctic Council. From 2015 to 2019, she was a director at Polar Knowledge Canada, where she established domestic and international partnerships at the Canadian High Arctic Research Station Campus in Nunavut. She is currently senior adviser in the Nordic and Polar Relations Division.Adrian Norfolk (BA [Geography], University of Victoria, 1977; BEd [Geography and Economics], University of London, 1978) joined External Affairs and International Trade Canada as a foreign service officer in 1994 after a 14year career with the World University Service of Canada (including postings in Nigeria, Malawi and Sri Lanka). At Headquarters, he served as deputy director with the Human Rights Division, director of the Policy and Advocacy Division of the Afghanistan Task Force, special adviser with the Stabilization and Reconstruction Task Force, and coordinator of the Interdepartmental Task Force on International Critical Incidents. Abroad, Mr. Norfolk served at the Embassy to Malaysia (1995 to 1998) and as counsellor (political) in both India (2004 to 2008) and Afghanistan (2008 to 2009). From 2011 to 2012, he established and headed the Office of the Embassy of Canada in South Sudan, and from 2015 to 2018, he was ambassador to Qatar. In 2018, he became chargé d’affaires en pied in Sudan.Giles Norman (BA Hons, Lancaster University, 1990; LLB, Queen’s University, 1996) joined the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade in 1999 after being called to the Bar of the Law Society of Ontario in 1998. His overseas assignments include political officer in Ankara (2001 to 2004), political and trade counsellor in Colombo (2007 to 2009) and firstever director of the Canadian International Centre for the Arctic Region in Oslo (2009 to 2012), where he also served as chargé d’affaires for 9 months. After Oslo, he was posted to New York City until 2016 as the counsellor (legal, human rights, humanitarian) and legal counsel at the Permanent Mission to the United Nations. At Headquarters, he has held a series of posts in the Legal Bureau and was deputy director of the Maghreb and Persian Gulf Division (2004 to 2007). Most recently, he was executive director of the Defence and Security Relations Division."
56,Biographical notes,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/10/biographical-notes.html,10/30/20,2020, backgrounders,"Lilian Chatterjee (BJ Hons [Journalism], Carleton University, 1980; MA, Norman Paterson School of International Affairs, Carleton University, 1985) started her career as a journalist, and then worked at the House of Commons and subsequently for several international nongovernmental organizations. She joined the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) in 2003. Ms. Chatterjee served as director general in both CIDA and . Most recently, she served as high commissioner in Guyana, with concurrent accreditation as ambassador to Suriname and plenipotentiary representative of Canada to the Caribbean Community.Rodger Cuzner (BA [Human Kinetics], St. Francis Xavier University) was first elected to the House of Commons in November 2000 as the member of Parliament for Bras d’or—Cape Breton. He was reelected in 5 subsequent elections before his recent retirement in October 2019. During his 19 years in Ottawa, Mr. Cuzner served in several roles, including parliamentary secretary to former prime minister Jean Chrétien, chief opposition whip and parliamentary secretary to the Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development. In his early years in Parliament, Mr. Cuzner focused on matters surrounding both veterans affairs and fisheries and oceans. More recently, much of his attention was directed toward workforce development and national labour issues. As an elected official representing the iconic northern Nova Scotia and Cape Breton Island, he worked with community and industry to build and mature the tourism sector. Prior to this appointment, Mr. Cuzner worked in the private sector as senior adviser at Rubicon Strategy in Ottawa. A graduate of St. Francis Xavier University, Rodger grew up in Glace Bay, Nova Scotia.Wendy Drukier (BA Hons [Politics, Economics], Queen’s University, 1990; MA, Norman Paterson School of International Affairs, Carleton University, 1994) joined the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade in 1997. Her first posting abroad was at the embassy in Buenos Aires (1999 to 2002). She then served as political counsellor in Bogotá (2007 to 2009) and at Canada’s Permanent Mission to the Organization of American States in Washington, D.C. (2010 to 2012), where she was also director of the department’s Hemispheric Affairs Division. From 2012 to 2015, she served as ambassador to Costa Rica, Honduras and Nicaragua. During her time at Headquarters, she has held a number of positions, including deputy director in the Stabilization and Reconstruction Programs Division and director general, international organizations. Most recently, she served as director general, economic development.Alain Gendron (BA [Economics], Sherbrooke University, 1986) joined External Affairs and International Trade Canada in 1992. Overseas, he was assigned to the high commission in Singapore (1995 to 1998) as third secretary and trade commissioner and to the embassy in Beijing (2002 to 2005) as second secretary and trade commissioner. He served as deputy consul general and senior trade commissioner at the consulate general in Shanghai (2005 to 2008). At Headquarters, he has held several director positions, including in the Africa Commercial Relations Division (2008 to 2010), Northeast Asia Division (2010 to 2014), Systems and Analysis Division for the Trade Commissioner Service (2014 to 2016) and the Cabinet and Parliamentary Affairs Division (2016 to 2017). Most recently, Mr. Gendron was the director of the Europe Bilateral and Advocacy Division.BenoîtPierre Laramée (BSc [Geological Engineering], Montréal Polytechnic, 1979; DESS [Energy Sector Management], HEC Montréal, 1988; MSc [Project Management], University of Quebec at Montréal, 1990) spent nearly 10 years working as a geophysicist in Canada and Senegal before joining the City of Montréal and then, working in Guinea and Mali, the Centre for International Studies and Cooperation. He joined the Canadian International Development Agency in 2000, working until 2004 in PortauPrince, where he held 2 director positions. In 2004, he returned to Ottawa to become manager of the ResultsBased Management Unit, a position he held until 2007, at which time he was appointed senior departmental assistant to the minister. From 2008 to 2011, he was director of the InterAmerican Regional Program. He was high commissioner in Cameroon from 2011 to 2015 and served as high commissioner in Bangladesh from 2015 to 2017. Mr. Laramée served most recently as ministercounsellor in Bridgetown, where he was simultaneously senior director of the Caribbean Development Program and Canadian director at the Caribbean Development Bank.Isabelle Valois (BA Specialist/Hons [International Development], University of Toronto, 1992) began her international career in Colombia and in Malawi; in the latter, she was program associate with UNICEF Malawi through the World University Service of Canada. She then worked for another 12 years in the nongovernmental sector. In 2004, she joined the Canadian International Development Agency, where she held several positions in the Middle East and North Africa bureaus, including chief of operations, Middle East. From 2009 to 2011, she served as head of development cooperation at the Embassy to Jordan and Iraq. While there, she was also the director of the Regional Human Rights and Peacebuilding Fund (2008 to 2010). From 2011 to 2016, she served as head of development cooperation at the Embassy to Morocco. Most recently at Headquarters, in 2016, Ms. Valois became director for global citizens."
57,Biographical notes,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/10/biographical-notes.html,10/30/20,2020, backgrounders,"Behzad Babakhani (BSc, McGill University, 1992; LLB, University of Manitoba, 1996) practised family and criminal law before joining the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade in 1999. He has served at Headquarters in various positions, including as law officer (sanctions), economic policy officer (AsiaPacific Economic Cooperation) and director of Consular Affairs, responsible for complex and children’s cases. He has also served as an executive in the Privy Council Office (Afghanistan Task Force), where he received the clerk’s Excellence Award in 2011. Abroad, he has had assignments in South Korea (second secretary), Malaysia (counsellor), Mexico (deputy head of mission and ministercounsellor) and Monterrey (consul general). Most recently, Mr. Babakhani was director for Northeast Asia and Oceania and chair of the department’s Visible Minorities Network.Louis Dumas (BA [Translation], Laval University, 1986; MSc [Management], Boston University, 1999) started his career in government in 1990 in Moscow and then held positions in Cairo and Tel Aviv. Upon returning to Canada, Mr. Dumas occupied the position of program and policy adviser to the assistant deputy minister of operations at Citizenship and Immigration Canada. He also worked in key positions at the Canada Border Services Agency. He returned overseas in 2007 as immigration program manager in Singapore and then became the immigration program manager in Beijing. In 2013, he returned to Canada, where he was asked to initiate a major centralization project of visa processing. Mr. Dumas then served as director general of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada’s (IRCC’s) Domestic Network. Most recently, he served as director general of transformation at IRCC.Michael Gort (BA Combined Hons [Economics and Political Science], Western University, 1987; MA [International Affairs], Carleton University, 1990) joined the Canadian International Development Agency in 2003, after more than 10 years working for Canadian nongovernmental organizations in Canada and Central America, as well as on assignments with the United Nations and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe. During his time at  Headquarters, he has served as director general of international organizations (2017 to 2020) and as director of the UN, Commonwealth and Francophonie Division (2010 to 2013). Positions overseas included San José (2015 to 2017), where he served as ambassador to Costa Rica, Honduras and Nicaragua; Rome (2013 to 2015), where he served as deputy permanent representative to the food and agriculture agencies of the UN; and Accra (2008 to 2010), as director of development and head of aid.Annick Goulet (BA Hons [Political Science] and Second Program, Modern Languages [Japanese and Russian], McGill University, 1992; DES [Journalism], École supérieure de journalisme de Paris [graduate school of journalism in Paris], 1994) joined the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade in 1999, after having worked as a journalist in Canada, Europe and Asia (1992 to 1998). During her time at Headquarters, she was deputy director for Japan (2008 to 2009) and for nuclear policy (2009 to 2010), director for nonproliferation and disarmament (2010 to 2011) and for commercial affairs with EU and European Free Trade Association countries (2014 to 2015). While in Ottawa, she also had an assignment in the Privy Council Office’s Foreign Policy and Defence Secretariat (2006 to 2007). Positions abroad include a secondment to Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (2002 to 2003) and a posting at Canada’s embassy in Tokyo (2003 to 2006). She served as counsellor and senior trade commissioner at the embassy in Beijing (2012 to 2014) and, most recently, as ministercounsellor (economic and trade) at the embassy in Moscow (2016 to 2020), where she also served as chargé d’affaires for Armenia and Uzbekistan (2018 to 2019).Christine Laberge (BA [Political Science], University of Montréal, 1998; MA [Management], University of Montréal, 2000) joined Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada in 2000. At Headquarters, she was director of the Centre of Learning for International Affairs and Global Leadership (2018 to 2020). She has held various positions abroad, including at the consulate in Barcelona (2011 to 2015), the consulate general in Rio de Janeiro (2001 to 2004) and the embassy in The Hague (2007).Denis Robert (BA [Political Science], Laval University, 1983; MSc [Political Science], University of Montréal, 1987) joined the Department of External Affairs in 1989 after working as a research associate at the Institute of Intergovernmental Relations at Queen’s University. He served as second secretary (commercialNAFTA) in Mexico City (1989 to 1993). In 1996, he was seconded to the École nationale d’administration [national school of administration] in Paris. In 1998, he participated in the diplomatic exchange program between the French and Canadian ministries of foreign affairs. He served as counsellor (commercial) in Paris (1998 to 2001), as head of the political section at the Mission to the European Union in Brussels (2004 to 2007) and as head of the political section at the embassy in PortauPrince (2007 to 2008). He was ambassador to Belgium and Luxembourg (2012 to 2016). At Headquarters, he has served in the European Union Division (1993 to 1996), as deputy director of the Western Europe Division and as director of the Haiti Task Force (2008 to 2012). Most recently, he served as director of foreign policy research.Emina Tudakovic (BA [Political Science], University of British Columbia, 1995; MA [Political Science], University of British Columbia, 1998) joined Citizenship and Immigration Canada in 2000. Following a first posting in New Delhi, she worked on international migration policy in bilateral and multilateral contexts. She served in the Humanitarian Affairs section of Canada’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations in Geneva (2006 to 2010), during which time she served 2 terms on the United Nations Refugee Agency’s Executive Bureau as rapporteur. On her return to Canada in 2010, Ms. Tudakovic held a number of directorlevel positions at Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada and was responsible for the overseas operational planning and implementation of Operation Syrian Refugee. In 2016, she took a position at the embassy in Ankara as area director for migration programs for the Middle East.David Verbiwski (BSc [Physics], Bishop’s University, 1996) worked in the private sector in Indonesia and in the natural resources sector in Canada before joining the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade in 2001. During his time at Headquarters, he served in the Latin America and Caribbean Division (2001 to 2002), as deputy director in the Strategic Trade Planning and Performance Measurement Division (2009 to 2010) and as deputy director responsible for nuclear compliance and cooperation in the NonProliferation and Disarmament Division (2018 to 2020). He has held various positions abroad, including trade commissioner in Jakarta (2002 to 2005), trade program manager in São Paulo (2005 to 2009), regional senior trade commissioner for eastern Africa in Nairobi (2010 to 2013) and commercial counsellor in Havana (2014 to 2018)."
58,Biographical notes,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/10/biographical-notes.html,10/30/20,2020, backgrounders,"Sylvain Fabi (BBA, Bishop’s University, 1988) joined the Trade Commissioner Service of External Affairs and International Trade Canada in 1992. At Headquarters, he worked as desk officer for Scandinavia and then Russia in the Europe Branch (1992 to 1995); as trade policy officer in the Market Access Division (1998 to 1999); as deputy director, Overseas Operations Division (1999 to 2001); as senior departmental adviser to the minister of international trade (2009 to 2010); and as director for bilateral relations with South America and the Caribbean (2010 to 2013). From 2013 until 2015, he was executive director of the North America Policy and Relations Division. Mr. Fabi’s assignments abroad include trade commissioner at the embassy in Moscow (1995 to 1998), commercial counsellor at the embassy in Havana (2001 to 2005) and commercial counsellor at the embassy in Santiago (2005 to 2009). Mr. Fabi served as high commissioner in Jamaica and the Bahamas (2013 to 2017). He became executive director, U.S. Transboundary Affairs Division, in 2017.André François Giroux (LLB [Civil Law], University of Montréal, 1992; LLM [International Business Law], McGill University, 1994; LLM [European Community Law], College of Europe, 1995; MBA, University of Montréal, 2001) joined the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade in 1995. He served abroad at the Permanent Mission to the United Nations in New York (1996 to 1999), in part during Canada’s term on the Security Council, and as counsellor at the embassy to France (2004 to 2008). In Canada, he has had assignments in the International Trade Law Bureau, in the International Economic Relations and Summits Division and in the Office of Protocol. From 2008 to 2010, he was director of the NonProliferation, Disarmament and Space Division, and from 2010 to 2012, director of the Office of the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs. Most recently, Mr. Giroux was the NAFTA secretary and director of the Trade Agreements Secretariat, after having served as ambassador to Denmark from 2012 to 2016."
59,Biographical notes,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/09/biographical-notes0.html,9/29/20,2020, backgrounders,"Mark Berman (BA [Political Science and International Relations], University of Saskatchewan, 1982; LLB, University of Saskatchewan, 1986; LLM, London School of Economics, 1989) joined the Government of Canada in 1989 as adviser to the Minister of the Environment and then served as executive assistant to the Deputy Minister of the Environment. In 1993, he joined the UN Environment Programme in Nairobi as a legal officer. After 6 years in Nairobi and Geneva, he returned to Canada as a director in the Office of the Commissioner of the Environment and Sustainable Development. He then joined the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) in 2000 as deputy director for Human Security and Peacebuilding. In 2005, he returned to Environment Canada as director for Climate Change Negotiations. In 2008, he was seconded to CIDA’s Multilateral Branch as acting director general for Environmental Sustainability and Economic Growth. In 2009, Mr. Berman joined Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada as executive director for Climate and Energy and Canada’s representative on the Kyoto Protocol’s Compliance Committee. In 2012, he served as executive director for International Crime and Terrorism and was then appointed director general for Consular Policy in 2017.Christina Buchan (BA Hons [Political Studies and French], St. Lawrence University, 1998; MA [Political Science], Queen’s University, 1999) joined the Canadian International Development Agency in 2003. During her time at Headquarters, she served as director of the Sudan Program (2009 to 2011), the Colombia and Bolivia programs (2011 to 2012), global health (2013 to 2014) and humanitarian organizations and food assistance (2014 to 2016). Positions overseas include Afghanistan (2005 to 2006), where she served as first secretary (development) in Kabul and then development adviser to the military’s Regional Command South in Kandahar. In addition, she was a consultant for UNICEF and the World Food Programme in Jordan (2016 to 2019). Jeannette Menzies (BA Hons [Canadian Studies], University of Manitoba, 1995; MA [Canadian Heritage and Development Studies], Trent University, 1998) joined the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade in 2001. At Headquarters, from 2006 to 2013, she served in various roles, including senior adviser to the assistant deputy minister of Consular Affairs and Emergency Management, deputy director of Circumpolar Affairs and deputy director of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Response. Abroad, from 2003 to 2006, she served as political officer in Ankara, where she was responsible for bilateral relations with Georgia, Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan. From 2013 to 2015, she served as head of the Canadian International Centre for the Arctic Region in Oslo during Canada’s chairmanship of the Arctic Council. From 2015 to 2019, she was a director at Polar Knowledge Canada, where she established domestic and international partnerships at the Canadian High Arctic Research Station Campus in Nunavut. She is currently senior adviser in the Nordic and Polar Relations Division.Adrian Norfolk (BA [Geography], University of Victoria, 1977; BEd [Geography and Economics], University of London, 1978) joined External Affairs and International Trade Canada as a foreign service officer in 1994 after a 14year career with the World University Service of Canada (including postings in Nigeria, Malawi and Sri Lanka). At Headquarters, he served as deputy director with the Human Rights Division, director of the Policy and Advocacy Division of the Afghanistan Task Force, special adviser with the Stabilization and Reconstruction Task Force, and coordinator of the Interdepartmental Task Force on International Critical Incidents. Abroad, Mr. Norfolk served at the Embassy to Malaysia (1995 to 1998) and as counsellor (political) in both India (2004 to 2008) and Afghanistan (2008 to 2009). From 2011 to 2012, he established and headed the Office of the Embassy of Canada in South Sudan, and from 2015 to 2018, he was ambassador to Qatar. In 2018, he became chargé d’affaires en pied in Sudan.Giles Norman (BA Hons, Lancaster University, 1990; LLB, Queen’s University, 1996) joined the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade in 1999 after being called to the Bar of the Law Society of Ontario in 1998. His overseas assignments include political officer in Ankara (2001 to 2004), political and trade counsellor in Colombo (2007 to 2009) and firstever director of the Canadian International Centre for the Arctic Region in Oslo (2009 to 2012), where he also served as chargé d’affaires for 9 months. After Oslo, he was posted to New York City until 2016 as the counsellor (legal, human rights, humanitarian) and legal counsel at the Permanent Mission to the United Nations. At Headquarters, he has held a series of posts in the Legal Bureau and was deputy director of the Maghreb and Persian Gulf Division (2004 to 2007). Most recently, he was executive director of the Defence and Security Relations Division."
60,Biographical notes,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/09/biographical-notes0.html,9/29/20,2020, backgrounders,"Lilian Chatterjee (BJ Hons [Journalism], Carleton University, 1980; MA, Norman Paterson School of International Affairs, Carleton University, 1985) started her career as a journalist, and then worked at the House of Commons and subsequently for several international nongovernmental organizations. She joined the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) in 2003. Ms. Chatterjee served as director general in both CIDA and . Most recently, she served as high commissioner in Guyana, with concurrent accreditation as ambassador to Suriname and plenipotentiary representative of Canada to the Caribbean Community.Rodger Cuzner (BA [Human Kinetics], St. Francis Xavier University) was first elected to the House of Commons in November 2000 as the member of Parliament for Bras d’or—Cape Breton. He was reelected in 5 subsequent elections before his recent retirement in October 2019. During his 19 years in Ottawa, Mr. Cuzner served in several roles, including parliamentary secretary to former prime minister Jean Chrétien, chief opposition whip and parliamentary secretary to the Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development. In his early years in Parliament, Mr. Cuzner focused on matters surrounding both veterans affairs and fisheries and oceans. More recently, much of his attention was directed toward workforce development and national labour issues. As an elected official representing the iconic northern Nova Scotia and Cape Breton Island, he worked with community and industry to build and mature the tourism sector. Prior to this appointment, Mr. Cuzner worked in the private sector as senior adviser at Rubicon Strategy in Ottawa. A graduate of St. Francis Xavier University, Rodger grew up in Glace Bay, Nova Scotia.Wendy Drukier (BA Hons [Politics, Economics], Queen’s University, 1990; MA, Norman Paterson School of International Affairs, Carleton University, 1994) joined the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade in 1997. Her first posting abroad was at the embassy in Buenos Aires (1999 to 2002). She then served as political counsellor in Bogotá (2007 to 2009) and at Canada’s Permanent Mission to the Organization of American States in Washington, D.C. (2010 to 2012), where she was also director of the department’s Hemispheric Affairs Division. From 2012 to 2015, she served as ambassador to Costa Rica, Honduras and Nicaragua. During her time at Headquarters, she has held a number of positions, including deputy director in the Stabilization and Reconstruction Programs Division and director general, international organizations. Most recently, she served as director general, economic development.Alain Gendron (BA [Economics], Sherbrooke University, 1986) joined External Affairs and International Trade Canada in 1992. Overseas, he was assigned to the high commission in Singapore (1995 to 1998) as third secretary and trade commissioner and to the embassy in Beijing (2002 to 2005) as second secretary and trade commissioner. He served as deputy consul general and senior trade commissioner at the consulate general in Shanghai (2005 to 2008). At Headquarters, he has held several director positions, including in the Africa Commercial Relations Division (2008 to 2010), Northeast Asia Division (2010 to 2014), Systems and Analysis Division for the Trade Commissioner Service (2014 to 2016) and the Cabinet and Parliamentary Affairs Division (2016 to 2017). Most recently, Mr. Gendron was the director of the Europe Bilateral and Advocacy Division.BenoîtPierre Laramée (BSc [Geological Engineering], Montréal Polytechnic, 1979; DESS [Energy Sector Management], HEC Montréal, 1988; MSc [Project Management], University of Quebec at Montréal, 1990) spent nearly 10 years working as a geophysicist in Canada and Senegal before joining the City of Montréal and then, working in Guinea and Mali, the Centre for International Studies and Cooperation. He joined the Canadian International Development Agency in 2000, working until 2004 in PortauPrince, where he held 2 director positions. In 2004, he returned to Ottawa to become manager of the ResultsBased Management Unit, a position he held until 2007, at which time he was appointed senior departmental assistant to the minister. From 2008 to 2011, he was director of the InterAmerican Regional Program. He was high commissioner in Cameroon from 2011 to 2015 and served as high commissioner in Bangladesh from 2015 to 2017. Mr. Laramée served most recently as ministercounsellor in Bridgetown, where he was simultaneously senior director of the Caribbean Development Program and Canadian director at the Caribbean Development Bank.Isabelle Valois (BA Specialist/Hons [International Development], University of Toronto, 1992) began her international career in Colombia and in Malawi; in the latter, she was program associate with UNICEF Malawi through the World University Service of Canada. She then worked for another 12 years in the nongovernmental sector. In 2004, she joined the Canadian International Development Agency, where she held several positions in the Middle East and North Africa bureaus, including chief of operations, Middle East. From 2009 to 2011, she served as head of development cooperation at the Embassy to Jordan and Iraq. While there, she was also the director of the Regional Human Rights and Peacebuilding Fund (2008 to 2010). From 2011 to 2016, she served as head of development cooperation at the Embassy to Morocco. Most recently at Headquarters, in 2016, Ms. Valois became director for global citizens."
61,Biographical notes,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/09/biographical-notes0.html,9/29/20,2020, backgrounders,"Behzad Babakhani (BSc, McGill University, 1992; LLB, University of Manitoba, 1996) practised family and criminal law before joining the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade in 1999. He has served at Headquarters in various positions, including as law officer (sanctions), economic policy officer (AsiaPacific Economic Cooperation) and director of Consular Affairs, responsible for complex and children’s cases. He has also served as an executive in the Privy Council Office (Afghanistan Task Force), where he received the clerk’s Excellence Award in 2011. Abroad, he has had assignments in South Korea (second secretary), Malaysia (counsellor), Mexico (deputy head of mission and ministercounsellor) and Monterrey (consul general). Most recently, Mr. Babakhani was director for Northeast Asia and Oceania and chair of the department’s Visible Minorities Network.Louis Dumas (BA [Translation], Laval University, 1986; MSc [Management], Boston University, 1999) started his career in government in 1990 in Moscow and then held positions in Cairo and Tel Aviv. Upon returning to Canada, Mr. Dumas occupied the position of program and policy adviser to the assistant deputy minister of operations at Citizenship and Immigration Canada. He also worked in key positions at the Canada Border Services Agency. He returned overseas in 2007 as immigration program manager in Singapore and then became the immigration program manager in Beijing. In 2013, he returned to Canada, where he was asked to initiate a major centralization project of visa processing. Mr. Dumas then served as director general of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada’s (IRCC’s) Domestic Network. Most recently, he served as director general of transformation at IRCC.Michael Gort (BA Combined Hons [Economics and Political Science], Western University, 1987; MA [International Affairs], Carleton University, 1990) joined the Canadian International Development Agency in 2003, after more than 10 years working for Canadian nongovernmental organizations in Canada and Central America, as well as on assignments with the United Nations and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe. During his time at  Headquarters, he has served as director general of international organizations (2017 to 2020) and as director of the UN, Commonwealth and Francophonie Division (2010 to 2013). Positions overseas included San José (2015 to 2017), where he served as ambassador to Costa Rica, Honduras and Nicaragua; Rome (2013 to 2015), where he served as deputy permanent representative to the food and agriculture agencies of the UN; and Accra (2008 to 2010), as director of development and head of aid.Annick Goulet (BA Hons [Political Science] and Second Program, Modern Languages [Japanese and Russian], McGill University, 1992; DES [Journalism], École supérieure de journalisme de Paris [graduate school of journalism in Paris], 1994) joined the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade in 1999, after having worked as a journalist in Canada, Europe and Asia (1992 to 1998). During her time at Headquarters, she was deputy director for Japan (2008 to 2009) and for nuclear policy (2009 to 2010), director for nonproliferation and disarmament (2010 to 2011) and for commercial affairs with EU and European Free Trade Association countries (2014 to 2015). While in Ottawa, she also had an assignment in the Privy Council Office’s Foreign Policy and Defence Secretariat (2006 to 2007). Positions abroad include a secondment to Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (2002 to 2003) and a posting at Canada’s embassy in Tokyo (2003 to 2006). She served as counsellor and senior trade commissioner at the embassy in Beijing (2012 to 2014) and, most recently, as ministercounsellor (economic and trade) at the embassy in Moscow (2016 to 2020), where she also served as chargé d’affaires for Armenia and Uzbekistan (2018 to 2019).Christine Laberge (BA [Political Science], University of Montréal, 1998; MA [Management], University of Montréal, 2000) joined Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada in 2000. At Headquarters, she was director of the Centre of Learning for International Affairs and Global Leadership (2018 to 2020). She has held various positions abroad, including at the consulate in Barcelona (2011 to 2015), the consulate general in Rio de Janeiro (2001 to 2004) and the embassy in The Hague (2007).Denis Robert (BA [Political Science], Laval University, 1983; MSc [Political Science], University of Montréal, 1987) joined the Department of External Affairs in 1989 after working as a research associate at the Institute of Intergovernmental Relations at Queen’s University. He served as second secretary (commercialNAFTA) in Mexico City (1989 to 1993). In 1996, he was seconded to the École nationale d’administration [national school of administration] in Paris. In 1998, he participated in the diplomatic exchange program between the French and Canadian ministries of foreign affairs. He served as counsellor (commercial) in Paris (1998 to 2001), as head of the political section at the Mission to the European Union in Brussels (2004 to 2007) and as head of the political section at the embassy in PortauPrince (2007 to 2008). He was ambassador to Belgium and Luxembourg (2012 to 2016). At Headquarters, he has served in the European Union Division (1993 to 1996), as deputy director of the Western Europe Division and as director of the Haiti Task Force (2008 to 2012). Most recently, he served as director of foreign policy research.Emina Tudakovic (BA [Political Science], University of British Columbia, 1995; MA [Political Science], University of British Columbia, 1998) joined Citizenship and Immigration Canada in 2000. Following a first posting in New Delhi, she worked on international migration policy in bilateral and multilateral contexts. She served in the Humanitarian Affairs section of Canada’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations in Geneva (2006 to 2010), during which time she served 2 terms on the United Nations Refugee Agency’s Executive Bureau as rapporteur. On her return to Canada in 2010, Ms. Tudakovic held a number of directorlevel positions at Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada and was responsible for the overseas operational planning and implementation of Operation Syrian Refugee. In 2016, she took a position at the embassy in Ankara as area director for migration programs for the Middle East.David Verbiwski (BSc [Physics], Bishop’s University, 1996) worked in the private sector in Indonesia and in the natural resources sector in Canada before joining the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade in 2001. During his time at Headquarters, he served in the Latin America and Caribbean Division (2001 to 2002), as deputy director in the Strategic Trade Planning and Performance Measurement Division (2009 to 2010) and as deputy director responsible for nuclear compliance and cooperation in the NonProliferation and Disarmament Division (2018 to 2020). He has held various positions abroad, including trade commissioner in Jakarta (2002 to 2005), trade program manager in São Paulo (2005 to 2009), regional senior trade commissioner for eastern Africa in Nairobi (2010 to 2013) and commercial counsellor in Havana (2014 to 2018)."
62,Biographical notes,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/09/biographical-notes0.html,9/29/20,2020, backgrounders,"Sylvain Fabi (BBA, Bishop’s University, 1988) joined the Trade Commissioner Service of External Affairs and International Trade Canada in 1992. At Headquarters, he worked as desk officer for Scandinavia and then Russia in the Europe Branch (1992 to 1995); as trade policy officer in the Market Access Division (1998 to 1999); as deputy director, Overseas Operations Division (1999 to 2001); as senior departmental adviser to the minister of international trade (2009 to 2010); and as director for bilateral relations with South America and the Caribbean (2010 to 2013). From 2013 until 2015, he was executive director of the North America Policy and Relations Division. Mr. Fabi’s assignments abroad include trade commissioner at the embassy in Moscow (1995 to 1998), commercial counsellor at the embassy in Havana (2001 to 2005) and commercial counsellor at the embassy in Santiago (2005 to 2009). Mr. Fabi served as high commissioner in Jamaica and the Bahamas (2013 to 2017). He became executive director, U.S. Transboundary Affairs Division, in 2017.André François Giroux (LLB [Civil Law], University of Montréal, 1992; LLM [International Business Law], McGill University, 1994; LLM [European Community Law], College of Europe, 1995; MBA, University of Montréal, 2001) joined the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade in 1995. He served abroad at the Permanent Mission to the United Nations in New York (1996 to 1999), in part during Canada’s term on the Security Council, and as counsellor at the embassy to France (2004 to 2008). In Canada, he has had assignments in the International Trade Law Bureau, in the International Economic Relations and Summits Division and in the Office of Protocol. From 2008 to 2010, he was director of the NonProliferation, Disarmament and Space Division, and from 2010 to 2012, director of the Office of the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs. Most recently, Mr. Giroux was the NAFTA secretary and director of the Trade Agreements Secretariat, after having served as ambassador to Denmark from 2012 to 2016."
63,Biographical notes,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/09/biographical-notes.html,9/1/20,2020, backgrounders,"Mark Berman (BA [Political Science and International Relations], University of Saskatchewan, 1982; LLB, University of Saskatchewan, 1986; LLM, London School of Economics, 1989) joined the Government of Canada in 1989 as adviser to the Minister of the Environment and then served as executive assistant to the Deputy Minister of the Environment. In 1993, he joined the UN Environment Programme in Nairobi as a legal officer. After 6 years in Nairobi and Geneva, he returned to Canada as a director in the Office of the Commissioner of the Environment and Sustainable Development. He then joined the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) in 2000 as deputy director for Human Security and Peacebuilding. In 2005, he returned to Environment Canada as director for Climate Change Negotiations. In 2008, he was seconded to CIDA’s Multilateral Branch as acting director general for Environmental Sustainability and Economic Growth. In 2009, Mr. Berman joined Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada as executive director for Climate and Energy and Canada’s representative on the Kyoto Protocol’s Compliance Committee. In 2012, he served as executive director for International Crime and Terrorism and was then appointed director general for Consular Policy in 2017.Christina Buchan (BA Hons [Political Studies and French], St. Lawrence University, 1998; MA [Political Science], Queen’s University, 1999) joined the Canadian International Development Agency in 2003. During her time at Headquarters, she served as director of the Sudan Program (2009 to 2011), the Colombia and Bolivia programs (2011 to 2012), global health (2013 to 2014) and humanitarian organizations and food assistance (2014 to 2016). Positions overseas include Afghanistan (2005 to 2006), where she served as first secretary (development) in Kabul and then development adviser to the military’s Regional Command South in Kandahar. In addition, she was a consultant for UNICEF and the World Food Programme in Jordan (2016 to 2019). Jeannette Menzies (BA Hons [Canadian Studies], University of Manitoba, 1995; MA [Canadian Heritage and Development Studies], Trent University, 1998) joined the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade in 2001. At Headquarters, from 2006 to 2013, she served in various roles, including senior adviser to the assistant deputy minister of Consular Affairs and Emergency Management, deputy director of Circumpolar Affairs and deputy director of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Response. Abroad, from 2003 to 2006, she served as political officer in Ankara, where she was responsible for bilateral relations with Georgia, Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan. From 2013 to 2015, she served as head of the Canadian International Centre for the Arctic Region in Oslo during Canada’s chairmanship of the Arctic Council. From 2015 to 2019, she was a director at Polar Knowledge Canada, where she established domestic and international partnerships at the Canadian High Arctic Research Station Campus in Nunavut. She is currently senior adviser in the Nordic and Polar Relations Division.Adrian Norfolk (BA [Geography], University of Victoria, 1977; BEd [Geography and Economics], University of London, 1978) joined External Affairs and International Trade Canada as a foreign service officer in 1994 after a 14year career with the World University Service of Canada (including postings in Nigeria, Malawi and Sri Lanka). At Headquarters, he served as deputy director with the Human Rights Division, director of the Policy and Advocacy Division of the Afghanistan Task Force, special adviser with the Stabilization and Reconstruction Task Force, and coordinator of the Interdepartmental Task Force on International Critical Incidents. Abroad, Mr. Norfolk served at the Embassy to Malaysia (1995 to 1998) and as counsellor (political) in both India (2004 to 2008) and Afghanistan (2008 to 2009). From 2011 to 2012, he established and headed the Office of the Embassy of Canada in South Sudan, and from 2015 to 2018, he was ambassador to Qatar. In 2018, he became chargé d’affaires en pied in Sudan.Giles Norman (BA Hons, Lancaster University, 1990; LLB, Queen’s University, 1996) joined the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade in 1999 after being called to the Bar of the Law Society of Ontario in 1998. His overseas assignments include political officer in Ankara (2001 to 2004), political and trade counsellor in Colombo (2007 to 2009) and firstever director of the Canadian International Centre for the Arctic Region in Oslo (2009 to 2012), where he also served as chargé d’affaires for 9 months. After Oslo, he was posted to New York City until 2016 as the counsellor (legal, human rights, humanitarian) and legal counsel at the Permanent Mission to the United Nations. At Headquarters, he has held a series of posts in the Legal Bureau and was deputy director of the Maghreb and Persian Gulf Division (2004 to 2007). Most recently, he was executive director of the Defence and Security Relations Division."
64,Biographical notes,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/09/biographical-notes.html,9/1/20,2020, backgrounders,"Lilian Chatterjee (BJ Hons [Journalism], Carleton University, 1980; MA, Norman Paterson School of International Affairs, Carleton University, 1985) started her career as a journalist, and then worked at the House of Commons and subsequently for several international nongovernmental organizations. She joined the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) in 2003. Ms. Chatterjee served as director general in both CIDA and . Most recently, she served as high commissioner in Guyana, with concurrent accreditation as ambassador to Suriname and plenipotentiary representative of Canada to the Caribbean Community.Rodger Cuzner (BA [Human Kinetics], St. Francis Xavier University) was first elected to the House of Commons in November 2000 as the member of Parliament for Bras d’or—Cape Breton. He was reelected in 5 subsequent elections before his recent retirement in October 2019. During his 19 years in Ottawa, Mr. Cuzner served in several roles, including parliamentary secretary to former prime minister Jean Chrétien, chief opposition whip and parliamentary secretary to the Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development. In his early years in Parliament, Mr. Cuzner focused on matters surrounding both veterans affairs and fisheries and oceans. More recently, much of his attention was directed toward workforce development and national labour issues. As an elected official representing the iconic northern Nova Scotia and Cape Breton Island, he worked with community and industry to build and mature the tourism sector. Prior to this appointment, Mr. Cuzner worked in the private sector as senior adviser at Rubicon Strategy in Ottawa. A graduate of St. Francis Xavier University, Rodger grew up in Glace Bay, Nova Scotia.Wendy Drukier (BA Hons [Politics, Economics], Queen’s University, 1990; MA, Norman Paterson School of International Affairs, Carleton University, 1994) joined the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade in 1997. Her first posting abroad was at the embassy in Buenos Aires (1999 to 2002). She then served as political counsellor in Bogotá (2007 to 2009) and at Canada’s Permanent Mission to the Organization of American States in Washington, D.C. (2010 to 2012), where she was also director of the department’s Hemispheric Affairs Division. From 2012 to 2015, she served as ambassador to Costa Rica, Honduras and Nicaragua. During her time at Headquarters, she has held a number of positions, including deputy director in the Stabilization and Reconstruction Programs Division and director general, international organizations. Most recently, she served as director general, economic development.Alain Gendron (BA [Economics], Sherbrooke University, 1986) joined External Affairs and International Trade Canada in 1992. Overseas, he was assigned to the high commission in Singapore (1995 to 1998) as third secretary and trade commissioner and to the embassy in Beijing (2002 to 2005) as second secretary and trade commissioner. He served as deputy consul general and senior trade commissioner at the consulate general in Shanghai (2005 to 2008). At Headquarters, he has held several director positions, including in the Africa Commercial Relations Division (2008 to 2010), Northeast Asia Division (2010 to 2014), Systems and Analysis Division for the Trade Commissioner Service (2014 to 2016) and the Cabinet and Parliamentary Affairs Division (2016 to 2017). Most recently, Mr. Gendron was the director of the Europe Bilateral and Advocacy Division.BenoîtPierre Laramée (BSc [Geological Engineering], Montréal Polytechnic, 1979; DESS [Energy Sector Management], HEC Montréal, 1988; MSc [Project Management], University of Quebec at Montréal, 1990) spent nearly 10 years working as a geophysicist in Canada and Senegal before joining the City of Montréal and then, working in Guinea and Mali, the Centre for International Studies and Cooperation. He joined the Canadian International Development Agency in 2000, working until 2004 in PortauPrince, where he held 2 director positions. In 2004, he returned to Ottawa to become manager of the ResultsBased Management Unit, a position he held until 2007, at which time he was appointed senior departmental assistant to the minister. From 2008 to 2011, he was director of the InterAmerican Regional Program. He was high commissioner in Cameroon from 2011 to 2015 and served as high commissioner in Bangladesh from 2015 to 2017. Mr. Laramée served most recently as ministercounsellor in Bridgetown, where he was simultaneously senior director of the Caribbean Development Program and Canadian director at the Caribbean Development Bank.Isabelle Valois (BA Specialist/Hons [International Development], University of Toronto, 1992) began her international career in Colombia and in Malawi; in the latter, she was program associate with UNICEF Malawi through the World University Service of Canada. She then worked for another 12 years in the nongovernmental sector. In 2004, she joined the Canadian International Development Agency, where she held several positions in the Middle East and North Africa bureaus, including chief of operations, Middle East. From 2009 to 2011, she served as head of development cooperation at the Embassy to Jordan and Iraq. While there, she was also the director of the Regional Human Rights and Peacebuilding Fund (2008 to 2010). From 2011 to 2016, she served as head of development cooperation at the Embassy to Morocco. Most recently at Headquarters, in 2016, Ms. Valois became director for global citizens."
65,Biographical notes,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/09/biographical-notes.html,9/1/20,2020, backgrounders,"Behzad Babakhani (BSc, McGill University, 1992; LLB, University of Manitoba, 1996) practised family and criminal law before joining the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade in 1999. He has served at Headquarters in various positions, including as law officer (sanctions), economic policy officer (AsiaPacific Economic Cooperation) and director of Consular Affairs, responsible for complex and children’s cases. He has also served as an executive in the Privy Council Office (Afghanistan Task Force), where he received the clerk’s Excellence Award in 2011. Abroad, he has had assignments in South Korea (second secretary), Malaysia (counsellor), Mexico (deputy head of mission and ministercounsellor) and Monterrey (consul general). Most recently, Mr. Babakhani was director for Northeast Asia and Oceania and chair of the department’s Visible Minorities Network.Louis Dumas (BA [Translation], Laval University, 1986; MSc [Management], Boston University, 1999) started his career in government in 1990 in Moscow and then held positions in Cairo and Tel Aviv. Upon returning to Canada, Mr. Dumas occupied the position of program and policy adviser to the assistant deputy minister of operations at Citizenship and Immigration Canada. He also worked in key positions at the Canada Border Services Agency. He returned overseas in 2007 as immigration program manager in Singapore and then became the immigration program manager in Beijing. In 2013, he returned to Canada, where he was asked to initiate a major centralization project of visa processing. Mr. Dumas then served as director general of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada’s (IRCC’s) Domestic Network. Most recently, he served as director general of transformation at IRCC.Michael Gort (BA Combined Hons [Economics and Political Science], Western University, 1987; MA [International Affairs], Carleton University, 1990) joined the Canadian International Development Agency in 2003, after more than 10 years working for Canadian nongovernmental organizations in Canada and Central America, as well as on assignments with the United Nations and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe. During his time at  Headquarters, he has served as director general of international organizations (2017 to 2020) and as director of the UN, Commonwealth and Francophonie Division (2010 to 2013). Positions overseas included San José (2015 to 2017), where he served as ambassador to Costa Rica, Honduras and Nicaragua; Rome (2013 to 2015), where he served as deputy permanent representative to the food and agriculture agencies of the UN; and Accra (2008 to 2010), as director of development and head of aid.Annick Goulet (BA Hons [Political Science] and Second Program, Modern Languages [Japanese and Russian], McGill University, 1992; DES [Journalism], École supérieure de journalisme de Paris [graduate school of journalism in Paris], 1994) joined the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade in 1999, after having worked as a journalist in Canada, Europe and Asia (1992 to 1998). During her time at Headquarters, she was deputy director for Japan (2008 to 2009) and for nuclear policy (2009 to 2010), director for nonproliferation and disarmament (2010 to 2011) and for commercial affairs with EU and European Free Trade Association countries (2014 to 2015). While in Ottawa, she also had an assignment in the Privy Council Office’s Foreign Policy and Defence Secretariat (2006 to 2007). Positions abroad include a secondment to Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (2002 to 2003) and a posting at Canada’s embassy in Tokyo (2003 to 2006). She served as counsellor and senior trade commissioner at the embassy in Beijing (2012 to 2014) and, most recently, as ministercounsellor (economic and trade) at the embassy in Moscow (2016 to 2020), where she also served as chargé d’affaires for Armenia and Uzbekistan (2018 to 2019).Christine Laberge (BA [Political Science], University of Montréal, 1998; MA [Management], University of Montréal, 2000) joined Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada in 2000. At Headquarters, she was director of the Centre of Learning for International Affairs and Global Leadership (2018 to 2020). She has held various positions abroad, including at the consulate in Barcelona (2011 to 2015), the consulate general in Rio de Janeiro (2001 to 2004) and the embassy in The Hague (2007).Denis Robert (BA [Political Science], Laval University, 1983; MSc [Political Science], University of Montréal, 1987) joined the Department of External Affairs in 1989 after working as a research associate at the Institute of Intergovernmental Relations at Queen’s University. He served as second secretary (commercialNAFTA) in Mexico City (1989 to 1993). In 1996, he was seconded to the École nationale d’administration [national school of administration] in Paris. In 1998, he participated in the diplomatic exchange program between the French and Canadian ministries of foreign affairs. He served as counsellor (commercial) in Paris (1998 to 2001), as head of the political section at the Mission to the European Union in Brussels (2004 to 2007) and as head of the political section at the embassy in PortauPrince (2007 to 2008). He was ambassador to Belgium and Luxembourg (2012 to 2016). At Headquarters, he has served in the European Union Division (1993 to 1996), as deputy director of the Western Europe Division and as director of the Haiti Task Force (2008 to 2012). Most recently, he served as director of foreign policy research.Emina Tudakovic (BA [Political Science], University of British Columbia, 1995; MA [Political Science], University of British Columbia, 1998) joined Citizenship and Immigration Canada in 2000. Following a first posting in New Delhi, she worked on international migration policy in bilateral and multilateral contexts. She served in the Humanitarian Affairs section of Canada’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations in Geneva (2006 to 2010), during which time she served 2 terms on the United Nations Refugee Agency’s Executive Bureau as rapporteur. On her return to Canada in 2010, Ms. Tudakovic held a number of directorlevel positions at Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada and was responsible for the overseas operational planning and implementation of Operation Syrian Refugee. In 2016, she took a position at the embassy in Ankara as area director for migration programs for the Middle East.David Verbiwski (BSc [Physics], Bishop’s University, 1996) worked in the private sector in Indonesia and in the natural resources sector in Canada before joining the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade in 2001. During his time at Headquarters, he served in the Latin America and Caribbean Division (2001 to 2002), as deputy director in the Strategic Trade Planning and Performance Measurement Division (2009 to 2010) and as deputy director responsible for nuclear compliance and cooperation in the NonProliferation and Disarmament Division (2018 to 2020). He has held various positions abroad, including trade commissioner in Jakarta (2002 to 2005), trade program manager in São Paulo (2005 to 2009), regional senior trade commissioner for eastern Africa in Nairobi (2010 to 2013) and commercial counsellor in Havana (2014 to 2018)."
66,Biographical notes,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/09/biographical-notes.html,9/1/20,2020, backgrounders,"Sylvain Fabi (BBA, Bishop’s University, 1988) joined the Trade Commissioner Service of External Affairs and International Trade Canada in 1992. At Headquarters, he worked as desk officer for Scandinavia and then Russia in the Europe Branch (1992 to 1995); as trade policy officer in the Market Access Division (1998 to 1999); as deputy director, Overseas Operations Division (1999 to 2001); as senior departmental adviser to the minister of international trade (2009 to 2010); and as director for bilateral relations with South America and the Caribbean (2010 to 2013). From 2013 until 2015, he was executive director of the North America Policy and Relations Division. Mr. Fabi’s assignments abroad include trade commissioner at the embassy in Moscow (1995 to 1998), commercial counsellor at the embassy in Havana (2001 to 2005) and commercial counsellor at the embassy in Santiago (2005 to 2009). Mr. Fabi served as high commissioner in Jamaica and the Bahamas (2013 to 2017). He became executive director, U.S. Transboundary Affairs Division, in 2017.André François Giroux (LLB [Civil Law], University of Montréal, 1992; LLM [International Business Law], McGill University, 1994; LLM [European Community Law], College of Europe, 1995; MBA, University of Montréal, 2001) joined the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade in 1995. He served abroad at the Permanent Mission to the United Nations in New York (1996 to 1999), in part during Canada’s term on the Security Council, and as counsellor at the embassy to France (2004 to 2008). In Canada, he has had assignments in the International Trade Law Bureau, in the International Economic Relations and Summits Division and in the Office of Protocol. From 2008 to 2010, he was director of the NonProliferation, Disarmament and Space Division, and from 2010 to 2012, director of the Office of the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs. Most recently, Mr. Giroux was the NAFTA secretary and director of the Trade Agreements Secretariat, after having served as ambassador to Denmark from 2012 to 2016."
67,Announcement of new diplomatic appointments,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/11/announcement-of-new-diplomatic-appointments.html,11/13/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced the following diplomatic appointments:Mark Berman becomes High Commissioner in the Cooperative Republic of Guyana and Representative to the Caribbean Community. Mr. Berman replaces Lilian Chatterjee.Christina Buchan becomes Ambassador to the Republic of Zimbabwe. Ms. Buchan replaces René Cremonese.Jeannette Menzies becomes Ambassador to the Republic of Iceland. Ms. Menzies replaces AnneTamara Lorre.Adrian Norfolk becomes Ambassador to the Republic of the Sudan. This is Canada`s first resident ambassador to Sudan.Giles Norman becomes Ambassador to the Republic of Serbia. Mr. Norman replaces Kati Csaba."
68,Announcement of new diplomatic appointments,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/11/announcement-of-new-diplomatic-appointments.html,11/13/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced the following diplomatic appointments:Lilian Chatterjee becomes High Commissioner in Barbados. Ms. Chatterjee replaces Marie Legault.Rodger Cuzner becomes Consul General in Boston (United States of America). Mr. Cuzner replaces David Alward.Wendy Drukier becomes Ambassador to the Kingdom of Spain. Ms. Drukier replaces Matthew Levin.Alain Gendron becomes Ambassador to the Kingdom of Belgium. Mr. Gendron replaces Olivier Nicoloff. BenoîtPierre Laramée becomes Ambassador to the Democratic Republic of Congo. Mr. Laramée replaces Nicolas Simard.Isabelle Valois becomes Ambassador to the Eastern Republic of Uruguay. Ms. Valois replaces Joanne Frappier."
69,Announcement of new diplomatic appointments,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/11/announcement-of-new-diplomatic-appointments.html,11/13/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced the following diplomatic appointments:Ailish Johnson Campbell to be Ambassador to the European Union, in Brussels. Ms. Johnson Campbell replaces Daniel Costello.Natasha Cayer becomes Ambassador and Permanent Delegate of Canada to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, in Paris. Ms. Cayer replaces Elaine Ayotte.Jenny Hill becomes Ambassador to the Republic of South Sudan. Ms. Hill replaces Douglas Scott Proudfoot.Jocelyn Kinnear becomes Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Canada to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, in Vienna. Ms. Kinnear replaces Natasha Cayer.Reid Sirrs becomes Ambassador to the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan. Mr. Sirrs replaces David Metcalfe."
70,Announcement of new diplomatic appointments,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/11/announcement-of-new-diplomatic-appointments.html,11/13/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced the following diplomatic appointments:Behzad Babakhani becomes Consul General in Ho Chi Minh City (Socialist Republic of Vietnam). Mr. Babakhani replaces Kyle Nunas.Louis Dumas becomes Ambassador to the Arab Republic of Egypt. Mr. Dumas replaces Jess Dutton.Michael Gort becomes Ambassador to the Republic of Chile. Mr. Gort replaces Patricia Peña.Annick Goulet becomes Ambassador to Romania. Ms. Goulet replaces Kevin Hamilton.Christine Laberge becomes Ambassador to the Dominican Republic. Ms. Laberge replaces Shauna Hemingway.Denis Robert becomes Ambassador to the Kingdom of Denmark. Mr. Robert replaces Emi Furuya.Emina Tudakovic becomes High Commissioner in Jamaica. Ms. Tudakovic replaces Laurie Peters.David Verbiwski becomes Consul General in Rio de Janeiro (Federative Republic of Brazil). Mr. Verbiwski replaces Evelyne Coulombe."
71,Announcement of new diplomatic appointments,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/11/announcement-of-new-diplomatic-appointments.html,11/13/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced the following diplomatic appointments:Sylvain Fabi becomes Consul General in Denver (United States of America). Mr. Fabi replaces Stéphane Lessard.André François Giroux becomes Consul General in Sydney (Australia). Mr. Giroux replaces Angela Bogdan."
72,Announcement of new diplomatic appointments,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/10/announcement-of-new-diplomatic-appointments0.html,10/30/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced the following diplomatic appointments:Mark Berman becomes High Commissioner in the Cooperative Republic of Guyana and Representative to the Caribbean Community. Mr. Berman replaces Lilian Chatterjee.Christina Buchan becomes Ambassador to the Republic of Zimbabwe. Ms. Buchan replaces René Cremonese.Jeannette Menzies becomes Ambassador to the Republic of Iceland. Ms. Menzies replaces AnneTamara Lorre.Adrian Norfolk becomes Ambassador to the Republic of the Sudan. This is Canada`s first resident ambassador to Sudan.Giles Norman becomes Ambassador to the Republic of Serbia. Mr. Norman replaces Kati Csaba."
73,Announcement of new diplomatic appointments,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/10/announcement-of-new-diplomatic-appointments0.html,10/30/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced the following diplomatic appointments:Lilian Chatterjee becomes High Commissioner in Barbados. Ms. Chatterjee replaces Marie Legault.Rodger Cuzner becomes Consul General in Boston (United States of America). Mr. Cuzner replaces David Alward.Wendy Drukier becomes Ambassador to the Kingdom of Spain. Ms. Drukier replaces Matthew Levin.Alain Gendron becomes Ambassador to the Kingdom of Belgium. Mr. Gendron replaces Olivier Nicoloff. BenoîtPierre Laramée becomes Ambassador to the Democratic Republic of Congo. Mr. Laramée replaces Nicolas Simard.Isabelle Valois becomes Ambassador to the Eastern Republic of Uruguay. Ms. Valois replaces Joanne Frappier."
74,Announcement of new diplomatic appointments,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/10/announcement-of-new-diplomatic-appointments0.html,10/30/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced the following diplomatic appointments:Ailish Johnson Campbell to be Ambassador to the European Union, in Brussels. Ms. Johnson Campbell replaces Daniel Costello.Natasha Cayer becomes Ambassador and Permanent Delegate of Canada to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, in Paris. Ms. Cayer replaces Elaine Ayotte.Jenny Hill becomes Ambassador to the Republic of South Sudan. Ms. Hill replaces Douglas Scott Proudfoot.Jocelyn Kinnear becomes Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Canada to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, in Vienna. Ms. Kinnear replaces Natasha Cayer.Reid Sirrs becomes Ambassador to the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan. Mr. Sirrs replaces David Metcalfe."
75,Announcement of new diplomatic appointments,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/10/announcement-of-new-diplomatic-appointments0.html,10/30/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced the following diplomatic appointments:Behzad Babakhani becomes Consul General in Ho Chi Minh City (Socialist Republic of Vietnam). Mr. Babakhani replaces Kyle Nunas.Louis Dumas becomes Ambassador to the Arab Republic of Egypt. Mr. Dumas replaces Jess Dutton.Michael Gort becomes Ambassador to the Republic of Chile. Mr. Gort replaces Patricia Peña.Annick Goulet becomes Ambassador to Romania. Ms. Goulet replaces Kevin Hamilton.Christine Laberge becomes Ambassador to the Dominican Republic. Ms. Laberge replaces Shauna Hemingway.Denis Robert becomes Ambassador to the Kingdom of Denmark. Mr. Robert replaces Emi Furuya.Emina Tudakovic becomes High Commissioner in Jamaica. Ms. Tudakovic replaces Laurie Peters.David Verbiwski becomes Consul General in Rio de Janeiro (Federative Republic of Brazil). Mr. Verbiwski replaces Evelyne Coulombe."
76,Announcement of new diplomatic appointments,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/10/announcement-of-new-diplomatic-appointments0.html,10/30/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced the following diplomatic appointments:Sylvain Fabi becomes Consul General in Denver (United States of America). Mr. Fabi replaces Stéphane Lessard.André François Giroux becomes Consul General in Sydney (Australia). Mr. Giroux replaces Angela Bogdan."
77,Announcement of new diplomatic appointments,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/10/announcement-of-new-diplomatic-appointments.html,10/17/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced the following diplomatic appointments:Mark Berman becomes High Commissioner in the Cooperative Republic of Guyana and Representative to the Caribbean Community. Mr. Berman replaces Lilian Chatterjee.Christina Buchan becomes Ambassador to the Republic of Zimbabwe. Ms. Buchan replaces René Cremonese.Jeannette Menzies becomes Ambassador to the Republic of Iceland. Ms. Menzies replaces AnneTamara Lorre.Adrian Norfolk becomes Ambassador to the Republic of the Sudan. This is Canada`s first resident ambassador to Sudan.Giles Norman becomes Ambassador to the Republic of Serbia. Mr. Norman replaces Kati Csaba."
78,Announcement of new diplomatic appointments,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/10/announcement-of-new-diplomatic-appointments.html,10/17/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced the following diplomatic appointments:Lilian Chatterjee becomes High Commissioner in Barbados. Ms. Chatterjee replaces Marie Legault.Rodger Cuzner becomes Consul General in Boston (United States of America). Mr. Cuzner replaces David Alward.Wendy Drukier becomes Ambassador to the Kingdom of Spain. Ms. Drukier replaces Matthew Levin.Alain Gendron becomes Ambassador to the Kingdom of Belgium. Mr. Gendron replaces Olivier Nicoloff. BenoîtPierre Laramée becomes Ambassador to the Democratic Republic of Congo. Mr. Laramée replaces Nicolas Simard.Isabelle Valois becomes Ambassador to the Eastern Republic of Uruguay. Ms. Valois replaces Joanne Frappier."
79,Announcement of new diplomatic appointments,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/10/announcement-of-new-diplomatic-appointments.html,10/17/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced the following diplomatic appointments:Ailish Johnson Campbell to be Ambassador to the European Union, in Brussels. Ms. Johnson Campbell replaces Daniel Costello.Natasha Cayer becomes Ambassador and Permanent Delegate of Canada to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, in Paris. Ms. Cayer replaces Elaine Ayotte.Jenny Hill becomes Ambassador to the Republic of South Sudan. Ms. Hill replaces Douglas Scott Proudfoot.Jocelyn Kinnear becomes Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Canada to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, in Vienna. Ms. Kinnear replaces Natasha Cayer.Reid Sirrs becomes Ambassador to the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan. Mr. Sirrs replaces David Metcalfe."
80,Announcement of new diplomatic appointments,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/10/announcement-of-new-diplomatic-appointments.html,10/17/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced the following diplomatic appointments:Behzad Babakhani becomes Consul General in Ho Chi Minh City (Socialist Republic of Vietnam). Mr. Babakhani replaces Kyle Nunas.Louis Dumas becomes Ambassador to the Arab Republic of Egypt. Mr. Dumas replaces Jess Dutton.Michael Gort becomes Ambassador to the Republic of Chile. Mr. Gort replaces Patricia Peña.Annick Goulet becomes Ambassador to Romania. Ms. Goulet replaces Kevin Hamilton.Christine Laberge becomes Ambassador to the Dominican Republic. Ms. Laberge replaces Shauna Hemingway.Denis Robert becomes Ambassador to the Kingdom of Denmark. Mr. Robert replaces Emi Furuya.Emina Tudakovic becomes High Commissioner in Jamaica. Ms. Tudakovic replaces Laurie Peters.David Verbiwski becomes Consul General in Rio de Janeiro (Federative Republic of Brazil). Mr. Verbiwski replaces Evelyne Coulombe."
81,Announcement of new diplomatic appointments,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/10/announcement-of-new-diplomatic-appointments.html,10/17/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced the following diplomatic appointments:Sylvain Fabi becomes Consul General in Denver (United States of America). Mr. Fabi replaces Stéphane Lessard.André François Giroux becomes Consul General in Sydney (Australia). Mr. Giroux replaces Angela Bogdan."
82,Announcement of new diplomatic appointments,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/09/announcement-of-new-diplomatic-appointments0.html,9/29/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced the following diplomatic appointments:Mark Berman becomes High Commissioner in the Cooperative Republic of Guyana and Representative to the Caribbean Community. Mr. Berman replaces Lilian Chatterjee.Christina Buchan becomes Ambassador to the Republic of Zimbabwe. Ms. Buchan replaces René Cremonese.Jeannette Menzies becomes Ambassador to the Republic of Iceland. Ms. Menzies replaces AnneTamara Lorre.Adrian Norfolk becomes Ambassador to the Republic of the Sudan. This is Canada`s first resident ambassador to Sudan.Giles Norman becomes Ambassador to the Republic of Serbia. Mr. Norman replaces Kati Csaba."
83,Announcement of new diplomatic appointments,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/09/announcement-of-new-diplomatic-appointments0.html,9/29/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced the following diplomatic appointments:Lilian Chatterjee becomes High Commissioner in Barbados. Ms. Chatterjee replaces Marie Legault.Rodger Cuzner becomes Consul General in Boston (United States of America). Mr. Cuzner replaces David Alward.Wendy Drukier becomes Ambassador to the Kingdom of Spain. Ms. Drukier replaces Matthew Levin.Alain Gendron becomes Ambassador to the Kingdom of Belgium. Mr. Gendron replaces Olivier Nicoloff. BenoîtPierre Laramée becomes Ambassador to the Democratic Republic of Congo. Mr. Laramée replaces Nicolas Simard.Isabelle Valois becomes Ambassador to the Eastern Republic of Uruguay. Ms. Valois replaces Joanne Frappier."
84,Announcement of new diplomatic appointments,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/09/announcement-of-new-diplomatic-appointments0.html,9/29/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced the following diplomatic appointments:Ailish Johnson Campbell to be Ambassador to the European Union, in Brussels. Ms. Johnson Campbell replaces Daniel Costello.Natasha Cayer becomes Ambassador and Permanent Delegate of Canada to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, in Paris. Ms. Cayer replaces Elaine Ayotte.Jenny Hill becomes Ambassador to the Republic of South Sudan. Ms. Hill replaces Douglas Scott Proudfoot.Jocelyn Kinnear becomes Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Canada to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, in Vienna. Ms. Kinnear replaces Natasha Cayer.Reid Sirrs becomes Ambassador to the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan. Mr. Sirrs replaces David Metcalfe."
85,Announcement of new diplomatic appointments,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/09/announcement-of-new-diplomatic-appointments0.html,9/29/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced the following diplomatic appointments:Behzad Babakhani becomes Consul General in Ho Chi Minh City (Socialist Republic of Vietnam). Mr. Babakhani replaces Kyle Nunas.Louis Dumas becomes Ambassador to the Arab Republic of Egypt. Mr. Dumas replaces Jess Dutton.Michael Gort becomes Ambassador to the Republic of Chile. Mr. Gort replaces Patricia Peña.Annick Goulet becomes Ambassador to Romania. Ms. Goulet replaces Kevin Hamilton.Christine Laberge becomes Ambassador to the Dominican Republic. Ms. Laberge replaces Shauna Hemingway.Denis Robert becomes Ambassador to the Kingdom of Denmark. Mr. Robert replaces Emi Furuya.Emina Tudakovic becomes High Commissioner in Jamaica. Ms. Tudakovic replaces Laurie Peters.David Verbiwski becomes Consul General in Rio de Janeiro (Federative Republic of Brazil). Mr. Verbiwski replaces Evelyne Coulombe."
86,Announcement of new diplomatic appointments,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/09/announcement-of-new-diplomatic-appointments0.html,9/29/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced the following diplomatic appointments:Sylvain Fabi becomes Consul General in Denver (United States of America). Mr. Fabi replaces Stéphane Lessard.André François Giroux becomes Consul General in Sydney (Australia). Mr. Giroux replaces Angela Bogdan."
87,Announcement of new diplomatic appointments,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/09/announcement-of-new-diplomatic-appointments.html,9/1/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced the following diplomatic appointments:Mark Berman becomes High Commissioner in the Cooperative Republic of Guyana and Representative to the Caribbean Community. Mr. Berman replaces Lilian Chatterjee.Christina Buchan becomes Ambassador to the Republic of Zimbabwe. Ms. Buchan replaces René Cremonese.Jeannette Menzies becomes Ambassador to the Republic of Iceland. Ms. Menzies replaces AnneTamara Lorre.Adrian Norfolk becomes Ambassador to the Republic of the Sudan. This is Canada`s first resident ambassador to Sudan.Giles Norman becomes Ambassador to the Republic of Serbia. Mr. Norman replaces Kati Csaba."
88,Announcement of new diplomatic appointments,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/09/announcement-of-new-diplomatic-appointments.html,9/1/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced the following diplomatic appointments:Lilian Chatterjee becomes High Commissioner in Barbados. Ms. Chatterjee replaces Marie Legault.Rodger Cuzner becomes Consul General in Boston (United States of America). Mr. Cuzner replaces David Alward.Wendy Drukier becomes Ambassador to the Kingdom of Spain. Ms. Drukier replaces Matthew Levin.Alain Gendron becomes Ambassador to the Kingdom of Belgium. Mr. Gendron replaces Olivier Nicoloff. BenoîtPierre Laramée becomes Ambassador to the Democratic Republic of Congo. Mr. Laramée replaces Nicolas Simard.Isabelle Valois becomes Ambassador to the Eastern Republic of Uruguay. Ms. Valois replaces Joanne Frappier."
89,Announcement of new diplomatic appointments,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/09/announcement-of-new-diplomatic-appointments.html,9/1/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced the following diplomatic appointments:Ailish Johnson Campbell to be Ambassador to the European Union, in Brussels. Ms. Johnson Campbell replaces Daniel Costello.Natasha Cayer becomes Ambassador and Permanent Delegate of Canada to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, in Paris. Ms. Cayer replaces Elaine Ayotte.Jenny Hill becomes Ambassador to the Republic of South Sudan. Ms. Hill replaces Douglas Scott Proudfoot.Jocelyn Kinnear becomes Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Canada to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, in Vienna. Ms. Kinnear replaces Natasha Cayer.Reid Sirrs becomes Ambassador to the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan. Mr. Sirrs replaces David Metcalfe."
90,Announcement of new diplomatic appointments,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/09/announcement-of-new-diplomatic-appointments.html,9/1/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced the following diplomatic appointments:Behzad Babakhani becomes Consul General in Ho Chi Minh City (Socialist Republic of Vietnam). Mr. Babakhani replaces Kyle Nunas.Louis Dumas becomes Ambassador to the Arab Republic of Egypt. Mr. Dumas replaces Jess Dutton.Michael Gort becomes Ambassador to the Republic of Chile. Mr. Gort replaces Patricia Peña.Annick Goulet becomes Ambassador to Romania. Ms. Goulet replaces Kevin Hamilton.Christine Laberge becomes Ambassador to the Dominican Republic. Ms. Laberge replaces Shauna Hemingway.Denis Robert becomes Ambassador to the Kingdom of Denmark. Mr. Robert replaces Emi Furuya.Emina Tudakovic becomes High Commissioner in Jamaica. Ms. Tudakovic replaces Laurie Peters.David Verbiwski becomes Consul General in Rio de Janeiro (Federative Republic of Brazil). Mr. Verbiwski replaces Evelyne Coulombe."
91,Announcement of new diplomatic appointments,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/09/announcement-of-new-diplomatic-appointments.html,9/1/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced the following diplomatic appointments:Sylvain Fabi becomes Consul General in Denver (United States of America). Mr. Fabi replaces Stéphane Lessard.André François Giroux becomes Consul General in Sydney (Australia). Mr. Giroux replaces Angela Bogdan."
92,Address by Minister Gould to Canadian International Council,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/11/address-by-minister-gould-to-canadian-international-council.html,11/13/20,2020, speeches,"affected areas and for acting as a driving force in efforts to prevent the use of hunger as a weapon of war and conflict.”In the past year, COVID19 has, obviously, dominated the agenda. However, its emergence did not put an end to the other humanitarian crises we face in Venezuela or Yemen, did not put an end to the suffering of the Rohingya and did not make Ebola disappear. Over the past decade, we have seen the number of people in need of humanitarian assistance climb from 69 million to over 250 million today. All these issues and all the people affected by these crises already needed our help, and COVID19 only served to compound the challenges they face and make the lives of these millions of vulnerable people even more difficult. It has only increased the strain on a global humanitarian system.In the citation for the World Food Programme, the Norwegian Nobel Committee also wrote that “the need for international solidarity and multilateral cooperation is more conspicuous than ever.” I could not agree more, though I realize there are some who disagree, who see this year as a clear indication that Canada should back away from its multilateral commitments and take a more muscular, selfinterested approach to the world.As minister of international development, I profoundly disagree with both this approach and the claim that Canada will be better off if we go it alone. Where I think we need to be more clear is in why we believe that multilateralism is the right approach. It is not an end in and of itself. Multilateralism for the sake of multilateralism is not the objective. It is how we use that system to shape a world that is better able to confront the collective challenges we, as Canadians but also as world citizens, all face.In the years after the Second World War, the framers of the current international order grappled with how to prevent the world from having to face the same horrors they had just overcome—twice. To that end they built a system that constrained the ambitions of the great powers, that enshrined the sanctity of state sovereignty and that fostered economic linkages that would make war unfeasible. The current system has, for example, ushered in an era of peace between large powers not seen since the Congress of Vienna; it has delivered a network of economic relationships that have driven poverty down across the world, and it built a foundation for better health outcomes for people everywhere. What is more, Canada has been a prime beneficiary of this system. However, the challenges we face today are different. Whereas their goal was fundamentally preventative, our goal must be proactive.We must continually seek to renew and strengthen the current rulesbased system and to reform specific multilateral institutions so that they can address the challenges of today and tomorrow. Important elements of the current system are under strain and often too slow in addressing intrastate and collective action problems on a global scale. We are seeing more intrastate conflicts and more people displaced than ever before. We are seeing the rules that govern the treatment of those people come under a sustained attack and a growing number of states deciding the rules no longer apply. We are seeing attempts to roll back progress that has been made on gender equality and women’s rights and seeing environmental degradation and climate change become epochdefining threats to our collective existence.In the face of these and other challenges, it is all too tempting to throw up our hands and say sauve qui peut [save yourself if you can], to ask, “What is the point of pursuing Pearsonian diplomacy?” Yet it is precisely now that we should be reminding ourselves of what Pearsonian diplomacy is all about. For Pearson, national selfinterest and internationalism were 2 sides of the same coin. Because a world that is more peaceful, more prosperous, and more sustainable is ultimately one that is better for Canada. He would often ask that when we ask ourselves, “What kind of Canada do we want?” we also ask ourselves, “What kind of world do we want?”In our response to COVID19, we have the answer. In trying to respond to a collective action problem, over 180 countries have come together to ensure that we prioritize vaccinations amongst the world’s most vulnerable through the ACT [Access to COVID19 Tools]Accelerator and its COVAX [COVID19 Vaccines Global Access] Facility. Likewise, Canadian efforts to encourage multilateral solutions to the economic recovery are necessary to support developing countries struggling with the implications of the pandemic. Neither effort is perfect, but they are better than going it alone, because the alternative is a much riskier, much more dangerous, much bleaker and much lonelier road to travel.Earlier this year I had the opportunity to speak with Mary Robinson. And in reflecting on the lessons COVID19 can teach us, she summed up what I believe we must take away from this experience: that governance matters, that science matters, that compassion matters, that collective action matters and that when individuals change their behaviour they can shape outcomes for a coordinated effect. This has been true across the world, as we have seen how different countries have been able to manage—or not—the COVID19 outbreak within their borders.It is this concept of working for the people of the world that is capturing my imagination right now. The challenges we face today are collective threats to humanity: climate change, health, inequality. If nothing else, COVID19 has shown that no matter how much we may try to insulate ourselves from the world, we are intimately and intricately connected. To meet these collective challenges, I believe we are going to require coordinated multilateral action.It is against this backdrop that I want to share with you my priorities for Canada’s international development over the next decade, as we drive toward advancing the Sustainable Development Goals [SDGs]. I truly believe that we have a real opportunity to reshape the international order to better address issues demanding collective action for the benefit of Canadians and the world’s most vulnerable people.First, we will remain committed to our feminist approach. While this isn’t new, it is fundamental, and as I’ve discovered in many of the conversations I’ve had over the past 9 months, it is apparently revolutionary to stay the course. So perhaps I can explain why I think doggedly pursuing the full implementation of the Feminist International Assistance Policy is so significant.At the most basic level, the Feminist International Assistance Policy is significant because it changes the way Canada makes decisions about its international development assistance. It places the issue of gender equality at the centre of Canada’s thinking by committing 15% of our development assistance to projects that are focused on advancing equality. By doing this, we are changing the systems that discriminate against half the population, and it is by changing these entrenched structures that we will achieve greater peace, security and prosperity.However, it isn’t just about gender equality. Yes, that’s an important part, but it goes beyond that. Our feminist approach means that we must identify, address and transform power dynamics. It means taking an intersectional, human rightsbased approach. It means concerted and intentional antiracist action in our programming and processes. It means seeking out the most vulnerable and most marginalized and supporting their voices.Second, we will carry forward Canada’s longstanding commitment to, and leadership in, global health and continue to build and support an architecture that delivers for everyone. This means driving our achievements all the way to that last mile.In the context of COVID19, this means addressing the pandemic as directly as possible by ensuring that there is equitable access to vaccines, therapeutics and diagnostics. That is why Canada is playing a leadership role in the ACTAccelerator and the COVAX Facility. We have contributed $120 million to the ACTAccelerator and $440 million to COVAX, the latter split equally between its selffinancing mechanism and its advanced market commitment.And it’s worth noting that the COVAX Facility now represents the largest multilateral collaboration since the Paris Climate Accord. There are 186 participants, representing over 85% of the global population and including 94 selffinancing participants. This is an example of not only how multilateralism can work but why it matters in the face of global challenges like a pandemic.However, despite the accomplishment that the mere establishment of these mechanisms represents, we remain at a critical juncture in the area of global health, as systems around the world are under incredible and growing pressure and the weaknesses in existing systems are being revealed. We can clearly see, as a result of COVID19, the terrible effects not having access to health care can have, so we need to commit ourselves to working toward achieving universal access. We can already see the devastating impacts of the numerous lifesaving interventions that have been halted or delayed because of COVID19. Immunization campaigns, nutrition interventions and community approaches to health care have been tested and refined in recent decades and save millions of lives. It is unconscionable to think that we are losing ground across so many fronts, especially as we enter the UN Decade of Delivery for the SDGs.As I said earlier, the fundamental challenge of COVID19 in the developing world is that it is compounding and exacerbating almost every single other health challenge, often in sharply different ways. Additionally, over the course of this pandemic, we have seen just how closely health care and human rights are interconnected. We have seen how some have chosen to exploit this moment to roll back essential health care services in the name of COVID19 management. Lockdowns may be containing the spread, yet they are also leading to disturbing spikes in sexual and genderbased violence, as well as in violence against and exploitation of children and youth. This is why I have also paid particular attention to continuity of education and working with partner countries to safely reopen schools when it is possible. Schools often represent safe places for girls and boys. We know how vital education is to their current and future wellbeing.Additionally, millions of women and girls around the world are now facing acute challenges to their sexual and reproductive health and rights. This is compounded by medical supply chains being redirected in support of personal protective equipment and testing but often at the cost of other essential services and supplies, such as family planning, access to contraception and access to safe and legal abortion, as well as to postabortion care. As we move forward, we must continue to work toward truly integrating sexual and reproductive health and rights, including in emergencies, into health systems around the world.Driving our results forward also means shining a spotlight on those SDGs that have not received the same kind of attention that others have. SDG2 is an example of this. We know that, as a result of the pandemic, the number of foodinsecure people (690 million people in 2020) may rise by as much as 130 million by the end of 2020. According to the World Food Programme, if current trends continue, the number of hungry people will reach 840 million by 2030. Malnutrition will likely also exacerbate the COVID19 impacts on mothers and children. We have seen how fragile food systems and supply chains truly are and the devastating effects that can have. We will do more to help end chronic malnutrition.Third, we will do our part to tackle climate change. Though COVID19 has rocked the world, its effects—while undeniably terrible—pale in comparison to the existential threat climate change represents, particularly for the poorest and most vulnerable, who we know will feel its effects most acutely. I would remind us all that these are also the people who have contributed the least to the problem. This must offend our most basic sense of fairness.Our goal is nothing less than to build a world that is naturepositive and carbonneutral. This means we are going to drive more resources to leastdeveloped countries and diversify our implementing partners. It means we are going to integrate climate, nature and biodiversity thinking into our work and ensure that our programming takes an intersectional, feminist approach to fighting climate change.In part, this means doing more to help those who are already being affected by climate change. For instance, we know that changing weather patterns are placing increased strain on an already stressed food system in the form of less productive land, crops that are no longer suited to the conditions and an increased burden on those who are responsible for food production. In subSaharan Africa, 70% of the smallholder farmers who support the food system are women. For them, climate change isn’t an impending tidal wave. For them, it has already swept up the beach.We also know that as humanity encroaches on the natural world at an alarming rate, we are putting both our lives and our livelihoods at greater risk. Zoonotic diseases, like COVID19, are thought to be related to our continuous expansion into wild spaces. We need to make serious, sustained investments in sustainable agriculture, in conservation, in disaster risk mitigation measures and, of course, in clean energy.And we have started to make those investments. In 2016, Canada committed $2.65 billion to reducing greenhouse gases internationally. And we are already starting to see returns on these investments. To date, we estimate that Canada’s investments are expected to result in 176 megatons in greenhouse gas reductions. What is more, our projects are making a difference on the ground. For instance, earlier this year the Government of Canada partnered with the Caribbean Development Bank to establish the CanadaCARICOM Climate Adaptation Fund, which will help promote resilience in the region by helping to pay the Caribbean Catastrophe Risk Insurance Facility insurance premiums for 9 countries in the region. In the current context, this will help free up fiscal space to help finance their response to COVID19 but will also help make sure they are able to rebuild after the next catastrophic hurricane season.Building on the conversations I’ve had with stakeholders here in Canada and around the world, we have learned important lessons from this first wave of programming. We know that women and farmers are on the front line of the battle to fight climate change. Ensuring our programming responds to their needs, both in terms of mitigating greenhouse gas emissions and in terms of adapting to the realities of a changing climate, will be a guiding principle as we move forward. Additionally, we recognize the important role that nature plays in absorbing carbon, and I am excited about incorporating naturebased solutions into our future work. Working with local communities, Indigenous people and women’s activists will help ensure that we build lasting solutions to the climate crisis.While the world is rightly concerned with the impact of the pandemic on development gains, the impact that climate change will have is even more worrisome. We will work in partnership with and led by local communities to ensure that they not only benefit from our climate investments but also are key agents in the solution.Fourth, to achieve this, we also need to focus our efforts on shoring up democratic governance. It is becoming clear that there is a direct relationship between citizens’ trust in their governing institutions and their willingness to follow those institutions’ advice peacefully. Furthermore, transparency and accountability in the provision of health data are paramount for national governments and the world community to effectively respond to the current pandemic. We must remain steadfast in our commitment to upholding human rights; it is in times of crisis that civil liberties, freedom of expression and a free press are most important.We know how much functioning public institutions matter to sustainable development. Canada has a lot to offer the world when it comes to cooperation on governance—on the rule of law, on tax administration and wealth redistribution and on a professional and competent public service. This is maybe not 1 of the sexier topics in international development, but it is certainly 1 of the most important. Often, governance work can have 1 of the most meaningful impacts in fostering a governance environment that creates the conditions for rights, democratic participation, economic growth and sustainable practices to flourish. Effective governance is also necessary for developing countries to attract private capital investment, which is important for enabling inclusive and sustainable economic growth.Now, listening to this, I realize it seems ambitious: health, nutrition, climate and the environment, food security, gender equality and governance. It’s definitely a lot. But what we know is, you can’t do any of these things in isolation. They are all intimately connected, so to try to address 1 without addressing the others won’t lead to success.When I think back to Mary Robinson’s lessons from our response to COVID19—governance matters, compassion matters, science matters and collective action matters—I reflect on how well each of those insights applies to each of the areas I mention above. It gives me tremendous hope for the future because it also says to me that we know what we need to do. And knowing is half the battle. Now we have to act and respond. Certainly, Canada cannot achieve this all on our own. But we can build coalitions, and we can work with existing and new partners, allies and friends the world over, through our multilateral institutions and outside them, to keep advancing our shared priorities, because our collective health, security, prosperity and, quite frankly, survival depend on it.Now, I know it can be uncomfortable within the development community to suggest that development is part of our foreign policy. Canadian foreign policy is focused on creating opportunities for Canada and Canadians to shape the world we want to live in, our development work is doing this in action. And the Feminist International Assistance Policy, grounded in feminism—grounded in inclusivity, grounded in human rights and sustainability—is an incredible achievement in building a better, more compassionate and resilient world.I think, more than anything, right now—with the twin crises of COVID19 and climate, which in many places are worsened by conflict—we all need a little hope. And the objectives and priorities we seek to advance in the world should come from the basic premise that a better world is possible. It is not naively idealistic to pursue an agenda that tries to make life healthier and more just, equitable and sustainable for people around the globe. It is grounded in the realities and the constraints we face as actors in the global system. But just because the world is a harsh place, doesn’t mean we should abandon the pursuit of trying to make it a little better. That’s why multilateralism is still relevant today. It is why Pearsonian diplomacy is still relevant today. And certainly, that is what Canada’s international assistance is all about."
93,Canada condemns China’s decision to remove democratically elected Hong Kong legislators,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/11/canada-condemns-chinas-decision-to-remove-democratically-elected-hong-kong-legislators.html,11/11/20,2020, statements,"Philippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement:“China’s decision to remove four democratically elected lawmakers from office in Hong Kong is a further assault on Hong Kong’s high degree of freedoms under the SinoBritish Joint Declaration.“This decision further narrows Hong Kong’s autonomy and the space for freedom of expression and public participation in governance in Hong Kong. “This action clearly demonstrates a concerning disregard for Hong Kong’s Basic Law and the high degree of autonomy promised for Hong Kong under the ‘one country, two systems’ framework.“We are deeply disappointed that China has chosen to break its international obligations.“Canada will continue to stand with the people of Hong Kong.”"
94,Minister Ng visits local small businesses in Greater Toronto Area to highlight revamped CanExport program,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/11/minister-ng-visits-local-small-businesses-in-greater-toronto-area-to-highlight-revamped-canexport-program.html,11/10/20,2020, news releases," As Canadian small businesses continue to adapt to the new reality of COVID19, the Government of Canada is working hard to support small business owners as they rebuild and explore new opportunities in the global marketplace.Today, the Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, alongside Tony Van Bynen, Member of Parliament for Newmarket–Aurora, and Helena Jaczek, Member of Parliament for Markham–Stouffville, visited local businesses in the Greater Toronto Area, Ontario, that are successfully growing their businesses internationally amid COVID19.Minister Ng first met with local business owners of STEM Minds in Aurora—a kindergarten to grade 12 science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) content creator and program provider for both inperson and online learning. Support from the CanExport program has helped them attend international conferences, connect with new customers, and explore new opportunities.Minister Ng also visited Thumbprint Solutions, a mechanical engineering services and simulation software solutions provider that has recently worked on developing electric vehicles. Since 2017, Thumbprint Solutions has taken advantage of the Canadian Trade Commissioner Service’s (TCS’s) support to help the company expand and diversify its clients across international markets and industries.During both these visits, Minister Ng highlighted the newly revamped CanExport program, which will provide Canadian businesses—including women and Indigenous entrepreneurs—with up to $75,000 in funding to expand their ecommerce presence, attend virtual trade shows, and navigate COVID19related trade barriers.Small business owners and entrepreneurs are encouraged to apply for the revamped CanExport program today."
95,Minister Ng to visit local small business in Ontario to highlight revamped CanExport program,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/11/minister-ng-to-visit-local-small-business-in-ontario-to-highlight-revamped-canexport-program.html,11/9/20,2020, media advisories," The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, along with Tony Van Bynen, Member of Parliament for Newmarket–Aurora, will meet with Aurorabased small business STEM Minds to highlight the revamped CanExport program, and learn about the company’s success in expanding into international markets. A brief media availability will follow.
Event: Minister Ng will tour STEM Minds and then hold a brief media availability. Date: Tuesday, November 10, 2020 Time: 9:15 a.m. ET Location: 212 Earl Stewart Drive, Unit #3, Aurora, Ontario
 
Notes

Open coverage in person
Media representatives are asked to please confirm their attendance with Youmy Han (youmy.han@international.gc.ca) by Tuesday, November 10,at 7:30 a.m. ET.
Important: 
  
Media representatives attending in person must wear a mask or face covering.
Individuals must not present any symptoms associated with COVID19 or have been in contact with anyone who has received a positive diagnosis within the previous 14 days."
96,Belarus sanctions ,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/11/belarus-sanctions.html,11/6/20,2020, backgrounders,"Effective immediately, Canada is imposing sanctions against Belarusian officials in response to gross and systematic human rights violations that have been committed in Belarus.Canadian measuresThe Special Economic Measures (Belarus) Regulations impose on listed individuals a prohibition on dealings (effectively an asset freeze) by prohibiting persons in Canada and Canadians outside Canada from dealing in any property of these individuals or providing financial or related services to them. The individuals listed in the Schedule to the Regulations are also rendered inadmissible to Canada under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act.The specific prohibitions are set out in the regulations.The names of the individuals added to the schedule of these regulations are:Igor Petrovich SergeenkoAleksey Aleksandrovich VolkovIvan Stanislavovich TertelIvan Danilovich NoskevichRoman Ivanovich MelnikAndrey Alekseyevich RavkovSergey Yakovlevich AzemshaAndrey Fedorovich SmalAndrey Yuryevich PavlyuchenkoNatalya Nikolayevna EismontIgor Ivanovich BuzovskiySergey Yevgenyevich ZubkovPetr Petrovich Miklashevich"
97,Canada imposes additional sanctions against 13 Government officials of Belarus ,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/11/canada-imposes-additional-sanctions-against13government-officials-of-belarus.html,11/6/20,2020, news releases," In coordination with the European Union, Canada is today imposing further sanctions against an additional 13 Government officials of Belarus. Canada and the EU continue to share serious concerns about the ongoing situation in Belarus.Since the fraudulent presidential elections in August 2020, the Government of Belarus has conducted a systematic campaign of repression and statesponsored violence against public protests and the activities of opposition groups. Canada remains deeply concerned by ongoing, welldocumented reports of human rights violations, including against freedom of the press, freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.We will continue to work together to ensure our respective and collective responses to the situation in Belarus support the rights and legitimate democratic aspirations of the Belarusian people."
98,Minister Ng concludes successful virtual trade missions to South Korea for Canadian entrepreneurs ,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/11/minister-ng-concludes-successful-virtual-trade-missions-to-south-korea-for-canadian-entrepreneurs.html,11/6/20,2020, news releases," The Government of Canada is working hard to help Canadian business owners and entrepreneurs start up, scale up and access new markets—even amid COVID19.Yesterday, the Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, wrapped up two successful virtual trade missions to South Korea that included more than 200 Canadian small businesses and entrepreneurs.The first—led by the Asia Pacific Foundation—was Canada’s firstever virtual trade mission dedicated to women entrepreneurs. These innovative and resilient business owners from across the country were able to learn from experts in the region, and make new connections that will help them grow their businesses into the dynamic and growing South Korean market.The second virtual trade mission was hosted by Minister Ng, and brought together Canadian entrepreneurs and small business owners across different sectors—particularly information and communication technology, life sciences, and artificial intelligence—to explore emerging opportunities in South Korea.During both missions, Minister Ng celebrated the fiveyear anniversary of the CanadaKorea Free Trade Agreement, and highlighted its benefits and advantages, including how it has created opportunities for Canadians and Koreans alike.Whether it’s innovating and adapting, taking advantage of the government’s emergency supports, or looking to new markets for opportunities for growth, Canadian small business owners continue to demonstrate incredible resilience.The government will continue to be there for them every step of the way amid COVID19, and will help them grow here in Canada and around the world."
99,Minister Ng announces new measures to help Canadian small businesses access global markets amid COVID-19,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/11/minister-ng-announces-new-measures-to-help-canadian-small-businesses-access-global-markets-amid-covid-19.html,11/3/20,2020, news releases," Helping Canada’s small businesses go global is key to driving economic recovery.Today, the Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, announced new actions to help Canadian businesses grow while navigating the challenges of the COVID19 pandemic in the global marketplace.The Government of Canada launched the CanExport SMEs program—delivered through the Trade Commissioner Service—in 2016. As an investment totalling $190 million, this program has helped thousands of small business owners and entrepreneurs break into new international markets with funding of up to $75,000 to cover travel costs and other expenses.With international travel restricted due to COVID19, the CanExport SMEs program is pivoting to now help small businesses:develop and expand their ecommerce presence by covering partial costs associated with online sales platforms and digital strategy consulting, as well as advertising and search engine optimizationattend virtual trade shows and other businesstobusiness eventsnavigate new COVID19related trade barriers by helping pay for new international market certifications and requirementsCanada is working to build a sustainable and resilient recovery that benefits everyone. That is why these new measures will also provide dedicated support for Indigenous and womenowned small businesses, which have been disproportionately impacted by the COVID19 crisis.This new support will help hundreds of small businesses in the coming months explore new opportunities to sell their worldclass Canadian products and services in the international marketplace, grow their businesses, and create good jobs for Canadians.Small business owners and entrepreneurs are encouraged to apply for CanExport SMEs program funding."
100,Canada to co-host United Nations Peacebuilding Fund Replenishment Conference,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/11/canada-to-co-host-united-nations-peacebuilding-fund-replenishment-conference.html,11/3/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced that Canada will cohost the UN Peacebuilding Fund (Fund) Replenishment Conference in January 2021.The conference aims to support the UN Secretary General’s funding appeal for the Fund, securing predictable and sustained commitments for the duration of its strategy (202024).Ensuring that the fund is wellcapitalized will enable the international community to better undertake the crucial work of conflict prevention and peacebuilding, while bringing into focus the urgent need for gender responsiveness. The Fund’s nimble approach and adaptability underpinned its response to the unique needs of fragile states during the COVID19 pandemic.The 2021 conference will be cohosted by the UN SecretaryGeneral, Canada, and other Fund leaders to be identified at a later date."
101,"Backgrounder - Canada’s support for the women, peace and security agenda",https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/10/backgrounder---canadas-support-for-the-women-peace-and-security-agenda.html,10/30/20,2020, backgrounders,"The 20th anniversary of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 is the opportunity for a call to action to address noteworthy gaps in the implementation of the women, peace and security agenda.Women peacebuilders are rarely represented in formal peace and security decisionmaking processes, receive inadequate funding for and recognition of their work and are the targets of threats and violence. Women’s participation in peace operations, most notably in uniformed police and military roles, remains low.The situation has only deteriorated during the COVID19 pandemic.To address these challenges, Canada continues to implement its National Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security and to lead and fund innovative and important initiatives in support of the women, peace and security agenda around the globe, including the new initiatives announced today.Women, peace and security awards programThis new awards program will introduce two awards: a women, peace and security civil society leadership award, to recognize the grassroots work of individuals, civil society organizations or networks; and a research award, launched in collaboration with the International Development Research Centre, to encourage innovative work undertaken by researchers or research institutions in fragile and conflictaffected states.Funding announcementsIn addition to $5 million in dedicated new funding to specifically support grassroots women peacebuilders, the Government of Canada is also allocating up to $9.9 million in new investments to support women peacebuilders globally, for a total of up to $14.9 million:Global Network of Women Peacebuilders: Up to $840,251 The funding will help ensure that Bangladeshi, Rohingya and Burmese women affected by violent conflict are empowered to lead and participate in communitybased peacebuilding and decision making at local, national and regional levels.Global Network of Women Peacebuilders: Up to $2.14 million The funding will support the active and meaningful participation of women in Colombia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Lebanon and Nigeria in the implementation of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security, peace processes and peacebuilding.InterPares: Up to $1.15 million The funding will improve women’s access to rights in Sudan by enhancing their participation and the meaningful inclusion of gendered perspectives in Sudan’s political transition and by improving the effectiveness of Sudanese civil society organizations and feminist groups to collectively advocate for and advance the rights of women and girls.Search for Common Ground: Up to $2.6 million The funding will build the capacity of youth, women and localauthority peace ambassadors in Mali’s northern and central regions in conflict transformation, leadership, positive and conflictsensitive communication, rumour management and advocacy to increase community resilience in the face of disinformation.Swisspeace: Up to $1.28 million The funding will provide capacity building for women peacebuilders in Cameroon through strategic accompaniment, skills development and organizational support in order to increase their meaningful participation in political decisionmaking processes.The Strategic Initiative for Women in the Horn of Africa: Up to $659,335 The funding will enhance women’s meaningful participation in Sudan’s political transition and strengthen coordination among women’s organizations across Sudan.Humanity and Inclusion: Up to $1.29 million The funding will promote the protection, safety, empowerment and dignity of vulnerable Indigenous communities, especially communities of Indigenous women, in nine municipalities in the Colombian departments of Nariño and Antioquia, which have been the most affected by the country’s armed conflict."
102,"Canada announces new women, peace and security agenda initiatives to mark 20th anniversary of UN Security Council Resolution 1325",https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/10/canada-announces-new-women-peace-and-security-agenda-initiatives-to-mark-20th-anniversary-of-un-security-council-resolution-1325.html,10/30/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced that Canada will introduce new initiatives to mark the 20th anniversary of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325.The women, peace and security agenda is crucial to building a more inclusive, equal, peaceful and safer world. Canada remains committed to advancing this agenda, which is a cornerstone of its feminist foreign policy.The equal and substantive participation of women peacebuilders is a matter of human rights. All people have the right to be represented by those who will defend their interests, the right to have a voice at the table when decisions are taken and the right to take part in determining their futures.During today’s HighLevel Event of the Women, Peace and Security Focal Points Network, Minister Champagne announced new investments of $9.9 million to support women peacebuilders globally, in addition to $5 million dedicated to grassroots women peacebuilders, for a total of $14.9 million. In addition, he announced the creation of an annual women, peace and security awards program to highlight excellence in research and civil society leadership. These investments will further advance women’s leadership in peace and security.Canada will also hold a yearlong global advocacy campaign through its network of diplomatic missions worldwide to recognize, support and protect the important work of women peacebuilders.These initiatives further demonstrate Canada’s steadfast commitment to the women, peace and security agenda and will address key gaps in the agenda’s implementation, including those highlighted by civil society organizations. These new commitments underscore Canada’s essential commitment to gender equality as a foundation for peace."
103,"Readout: Minister Ng speaks with European Commissioner for Trade, Valdis Dombrovskis",https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/10/readout-minister-ng-speaks-with-european-commissioner-for-trade-valdis-dombrovskis.html,10/30/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, spoke yesterday with Valdis Dombrovskis, European Commission Executive VicePresident, to congratulate him on his new role as European Commissioner for Trade.Minister Ng and Executive VicePresident Dombrovskis spoke about their shared priorities to combat climate change and pursue sustainable economic recovery. During the call, they highlighted recent progress to help more small businesses, womenowned businesses and other underrepresented groups access the benefits of trade under the CanadaEU Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), and explored potential dates for the next CETA Joint Committee meeting.Minister Ng emphasized the need to ensure that all Canadian businesses and workers benefit from CETA, and welcomed the news that the EU is preparing to fulfill its commitments related to conformity assessment under the agreement. They also discussed ongoing efforts toward the full ratification of CETA. Minister Ng raised Canada’s concerns on market access for agricultural products, and asked that the EU comply with the transparency requirements of CETA’s temporary entry provisions.Minister Ng and Executive VicePresident Dombrovskis agreed to continue to work together to promote strong supply chains and rulesbased trade as a key driver of global economic recovery for businesses and people around the world—including through the Canadaled Ottawa Group on reforming the WTO."
104,Statement in response to pattern of targeted school attacks,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/10/statement-in-response-to-pattern-of-targeted-school-attacks.html,10/29/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement:“Education is a fundamental right. Safe schools allow young people to broaden their minds and realize their full potential. That is why it has been so disturbing to witness recent attacks that have deliberately targeted children and education facilities. “Canada condemns the recent attacks on schools in Afghanistan, Pakistan and Cameroon. These attacks are grave violations of human rights. Canada stands in solidarity with the families who have been affected by these horrible attacks. The perpetrators of these atrocities must be held to account. “Canada will always defend the right to safe access to education, both at home and abroad.”"
105,Minister Ng and Minister Fortier participate in virtual Ministerial Council Meeting hosted by Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/10/minister-ng-and-minister-fortier-participate-in-virtual-ministerial-council-meeting-hosted-by-organisation-for-economic-co-operation-and-development.html,10/29/20,2020, news releases," Strengthening the rulesbased global trading system benefits Canadians and communities across the country, and will advance an inclusive, sustainable, and resilient global economic recovery. Over the last two days, the Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, and the Honourable Mona Fortier, Minister of Middle Class Prosperity and Associate Minister of Finance, took part in a virtual Ministerial Council Meeting hosted by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). During the meeting, OECD members endorsed a joint statement reinforcing their commitment to support businesses, workers and people during the COVID19 pandemic.At the session on Globalisation and the Recovery: The Role of Trade and Investment, Minister Ng emphasized the need to use trade policies as a force for positive change. She reaffirmed Canada’s commitment to working with partners like the OECD to reinforce a rulesbased, stable, and predictable international trading system that drives economic recovery and growth—ensuring it benefits all Canadians, including women and small businesses, as well as racialized and Indigenous entrepreneurs.Minister Ng highlighted Canada’s leadership to develop concrete actions to address the economic impacts of COVID19 with our international partners, including as chair of the Ottawa Group, which focuses on World Trade Organization reform.While underlining that digital trade will be a key driver of economic recovery, competitiveness and growth, Minister Ng encouraged the OECD to pursue its work on digital transition to help identify the policies that will help Canada’s businesses and people to reap the full benefits of digital trade.At the session on Global Economic Recovery Plans, Minister Fortier highlighted the actions the government is taking to support Canadians and businesses and mitigate the impacts of the pandemic, and spoke of Canada’s contributions toward the world’s most vulnerable.Minister Fortier stressed the need for countries to continue to work together to contain the virus and mitigate job losses, as well as to ensure a strong, resilient, and green recovery that leaves no one behind. She emphasized the importance of policy frameworks with a strong focus on people’s quality of life over the long term.Minister Fortier was also the lead speaker at the session on The Way Out of the Crisis, where she spoke about the disproportionate impacts of the pandemic on women and stressed the importance of women’s success for the global economic recovery and beyond. She highlighted Canada’s Genderbased Analysis Plus framework and commitment to helping more women get back into the workforce through the development of an action plan for women in the economy."
106,Statement by Minister of Foreign Affairs on International Religious Freedom Day,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/10/statement-by-minister-of-foreign-affairs-on-international-religious-freedom-day.html,10/27/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement:“International Religious Freedom Day is an important occasion to assert the universal human right of all people to practise their religion and hold beliefs, without discrimination, violence or abuse.“This year, it is also a critical opportunity to recognize the resilience of faith and belief communities across the world in adapting their practices in the COVID19 context.“We also know that many situations of persecution and discrimination on the basis of religion or belief have worsened during the COVID19 pandemic.“Canada remains concerned by the rise of antisemitism and Islamophobia; the ongoing persecution of Uyghur Muslims, Tibetan Buddhists, Falun Gong practitioners, and other faith and belief communities in China; the continued economic exclusion of Bahá’ís in Iran; and the imprisonment of Christians in North Korea. Canada will continue to call upon governments to allow UN special procedures immediate, unfettered and meaningful access.“As a multicultural, multifaith and multiethnic society, Canada will continue to stand up for human rights, including the promotion and protection of freedom of religion or belief, at home and around the world.”"
107,Joint Statement from the International Coordination and Response Group for the victims of Flight PS752,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/10/joint-statement-from-the-international-coordination-and-response-group-for-the-victims-of-flight-ps752.html,10/27/20,2020, statements," The International Coordination and Response Group for the victims of Flight PS752 held a virtual meeting today.Ministers representing Afghanistan, Canada, Sweden, Ukraine, and the United Kingdom discussed progress made on the investigations, and securing accountability and justice for the victims of the downing.The Coordination Group recommitted to remaining united and to working together to achieve our objectives of transparency, justice, accountability and reparations in order to help families get the answers they deserve and find closure.The Coordination Group continues its call on Iran to conduct an independent and comprehensive investigation into the causes and contributing factors that led to the downing in accordance with the standards and recommended practices set out under to Annex 13 to the Convention on International Civil Aviation.The Coordination Group will continue to seek accountability for those responsible by encouraging a full and transparent criminal investigation and to call for impartial judicial proceedings in order to obtain justice for the victims of this tragedy."
108,Canada and Botswana to co-host second Global Conference for Media Freedom,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/10/canada-and-botswana-to-co-host-second-global-conference-for-media-freedom.html,10/26/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced that Canada will cohost the second Global Conference for Media Freedom with Botswana on November 16, 2020.This online conference will bring together traditional and digital media workers, international and civil society organizations, and governments. It will provide a forum to develop collaborative and innovative approaches that counter the challenges to media freedom and that strengthen the protections required to safeguard journalists, freedom of expression and human rights around the world.Michelle Bachelet, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, will deliver the keynote address at the global conference. The HighLevel Panel of Legal Experts on Media Freedom, chaired by Lord Neuberger and deputychaired by Amal Clooney, will also provide an update on its work.More information about the conference, including further speaker and registration details, will be made available on the 2020 Global Conference for Media Freedom web page over the coming weeks."
109,Media registration opens for Global Conference for Media Freedom,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/10/media-registration-opens-for-global-conference-for-media-freedom.html,10/26/20,2020, media advisories," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced that Canada will cohost the second Global Conference for Media Freedom with the Republic of Botswana on November 16, 2020.
The media accreditation portal is now open for registration:  https://registration.international.gc.ca. When prompted, please use the following invitation code to access the registration form: GCMFMEDIA20
Please note that accreditation will close on November 13, at 9 am (EST).
The Global Conference for Media Freedom 2020 will convene a broad group of experts, including foreign ministers, highlevel government officials, journalists, media organizations, international organizations, and civil society representatives to help address the challenges to media freedom and promote the health of the global information."
110,Statement on 40th anniversary of Hague Convention on child abduction,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/10/statement-on-40th-anniversary-of-hague-convention-on-child-abduction.html,10/25/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and the Honourable David Lametti, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, today issued the following statement: “Today, we mark the 40th anniversary of the Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction.   “Every year, in Canada and abroad, thousands of children are wrongfully taken across international borders by a parent or guardian in violation of rights of custody. This has devastating effects on families, and it is the children who suffer the most. Children must be at the heart of family justice, and mechanisms like the Hague Convention on child abduction are essential in order to assist them in these terrible situations. “Canada, along with 100 contracting states, continues to support this global effort to protect children from wrongful removal or retention and return them to their country of residence. We continue to call on the global community to join us and to ratify this important convention.  “We are committed to working with our international partners to continue to protect children and to reinforce the operation of the convention.”Quick factsThe Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty that was signed in The Hague, Netherlands, on October 25, 1980. It establishes procedures for the return of abducted children to the country where they usually reside and secures protection of custody and access rights under the laws of its contracting states.Canada was the second country to ratify the convention, in 1983, and it is now applied in over 100 contracting states. Since the convention came into effect, hundreds of children have been safely returned to Canada thanks to its mechanisms.Canadians can visit International child abduction: A guidebook for leftbehind parents online for more information on the tools available to them.Associated linksConvention on the Civil Aspects of International Child AbductionInternational child abduction: A guidebook for leftbehind parents"
111,Minister Ng participates in APEC ministerial meeting on small and medium-sized businesses ,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/10/minister-ng-participates-in-apec-ministerial-meeting-on-small-and-medium-sized-businesses.html,10/23/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, yesterday participated in the AsiaPacific Economic Cooperation’s (APEC’s) ministerial meeting on small and mediumsized businesses, focused on best practices for mitigating the impact of COVID19 and advancing business digitalization to build the foundation for the economy of the future.Minister Ng emphasized the importance of a wide range of economic supports to small businesses across all sectors to position them for a strong and sustainable economic recovery from COVID19. She spoke about how open supply chains and rulesbased trade will ensure that businesses see minimal disruptions and that essential goods and services, such as food and medicine, continue to flow.The Minister reiterated Canada’s belief that the way forward to economic recovery is by strengthening and expanding global trade to benefit everyone.Minister Ng also highlighted the importance of advancing digital trade and ecommerce as a way to eliminate barriers faced by traditional small and mediumsized businesses. Helping small businesses develop and advance their digital capabilities will allow them to take advantage of opportunities in new markets in a postCOVID19 world.This meeting builds on the recent ministerial APEC joint statement on COVID19 that highlighted Canada and its APEC partners’ unwavering commitment to work together to mitigate the health and economic impacts of the pandemic on Canadians and people around the world."
112,Canada’s commitments to enhance development engagement in the Sahel,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/10/canadas-commitments-to-enhance-development-engagement-in-the-sahel.html,10/20/20,2020, backgrounders,"The Government of Canada has announced that it will allocate $15.2 million in additional development funding to Burkina Faso to address growing needs.United Nations Population Fund: Up to $5 millionThe funding will support the continuity of access to essential familyplanning services and quality reproductive health information for men and women, as well as for girls of childbearing age, in 8 regions of Burkina Faso.World Health Organization: Up to $2.2 millionThe funding will provide health services to populations affected by the COVID19 pandemic in Burkina Faso, offering primary health care, including for sexual and reproductive health. United Nations World Food Programme: Up to $5 millionThe funding will support school feeding to contribute to the systematic elimination of obstacles related to the education of children, especially girls, in highpriority regions of Burkina Faso. Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations: Up to $3 million The funding will improve food security in Burkina Faso and support the resilience of agrosilvopastoral communities affected by both the COVID19 pandemic and the impacts of climate change."
113,Canada pledges to enhance development engagement in Sahel,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/10/canada-pledges-to-enhance-development-engagement-in-sahel.html,10/20/20,2020, news releases," Canada is deeply concerned by the deteriorating security situation in the Sahel and is committed to minimizing its impact on people in the region, as well as responding to the increasing needs of the most vulnerable.Today, during a virtual ministerial round table on the humanitarian situation in the Central Sahel, the Honourable Karina Gould, Minister of International Development, pledged to increase Canada’s international assistance in the region, including plans to establish bilateral development assistance programs with Chad and Niger.The Minister also announced 4 new projects in Burkina Faso to address critical gaps in sexual and reproductive health and rights, food security and agricultural resilience to climate change in the context of the COVID19 pandemic.Together, these commitments, along with ongoing programming, will help address security, development and humanitarian needs to serve the most vulnerable and atrisk people in the Sahel, including those most affected by both the COVID19 pandemic and the impacts of climate change."
114,Statement on International Day for the Eradication of Poverty,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/10/statement-on-international-day-for-the-eradication-of-poverty.html,10/17/20,2020, statements," The Honourable Karina Gould, Minister of International Development, today issued the following statement:“On the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, we recognize the urgency of accelerating progress toward ending poverty so that no one is left behind. Through the Feminist International Assistance Policy, Canada is working to help the poorest and those in vulnerable situations by making gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls central to our efforts. This year’s theme—Acting Together to Achieve Social and Environmental Justice for All—underlines that we cannot address poverty unless we address the inequities that are at its root.“This year, we also see how the COVID19 pandemic has exposed systemic weaknesses and gaps, resulting in economic and healthcare crises that disproportionately affect the poorest and those in vulnerable situations. Gender inequality has been exacerbated by the pandemic, threatening decades of progress for women and girls.“The COVID19 crisis is creating significant challenges for all countries to eradicate poverty and maintain their development goals. This is especially true for countries in special situations, including least developed countries, landlocked developing countries, small island developing states and fragile and conflictaffected states.“Canada is doing its part around the world to help countries in their efforts to end poverty and build more resilient and inclusive societies. In September, Canada announced an additional $400 million in international development funding in 2020 and committed to increased investments in international assistance.“Canada is also playing a leadership role in the Financing for Development in the Era of COVID19 and Beyond initiative, in collaboration with the United Nations and Jamaica. This process is charting a course toward mitigating the socioeconomic and financial effects of the pandemic by enabling developing countries to access the financing they need to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.“We cannot afford to lose the achievements made over the last several decades toward building a more peaceful, prosperous, inclusive, resilient and sustainable world. Now, more than ever, we need a coordinated global response to eradicate poverty, and Canada is there.”"
115,Statement on World Food Day,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/10/statement-on-world-food-day.html,10/16/20,2020, statements," The Honourable Karina Gould, Minister of International Development, today issued the following statement:“Over the last 4 years, global hunger has been on the rise—and COVID19 has exacerbated this trend. The COVID19 health crisis is threatening to create a ‘hunger pandemic’ that could bring another 132 million people into chronic hunger. Earlier this week, the 2020 Nobel Peace Prize was awarded to the World Food Programme [WFP] for ‘acting as a driving force in efforts to prevent the use of hunger as a weapon of war and conflict.’ The WFP is racing to reach people in 88 countries who are suffering from acute food insecurity and hunger because ‘Until the day we have a medical vaccine, food is the best vaccine against chaos.’“The immediate, coordinated response from international actors to support organizations like the WFP and the Food and Agriculture Organization was critical to provide emergency access to food and preserve livelihoods for the most vulnerable.“While this immediate help is vital, it is also critical to focus on rebuilding food systems for greater resilience. Now is the time to integrate nutrition needs with agricultural production goals and view climateaction objectives alongside efforts to preserve livelihoods. And when two thirds of the world’s smallholder farmers are women, it is crucial to include them in decision making and developing solutions.“COVID19 has laid bare the risks and vulnerabilities in our food system, but it is also an opportunity to do things better. We need to find and amplify new ways to increase food productivity, reduce waste, raise incomes equitably and improve health and nutrition. It is also time to reexamine how to ensure that our food system stays sustainable and supports biodiversity.“The UN Food Systems Summit in 2021 will be an important opportunity to identify specific solutions for countries, communities and companies to respond to the current crisis and to build back better for people and the planet. Canada looks forward to contributing to this summit and to building moreresilient food systems both at home and abroad.”"
116,"Minister Champagne meets with Belarusian opposition leader and Baltic Group foreign ministers, wrapping up European visit",https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/10/minister-champagne-meets-with-belarusian-opposition-leader-and-baltic-group-foreign-ministers-wrapping-up-european-visit.html,10/16/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, concluded his mission to Europe today with a stop in Lithuania, where he met with Belarusian opposition leader, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, to reiterate Canada’s support for the people of Belarus.While in Vilnius, and at Canada’s initiative, the Minister also held talks with his counterparts from the Baltic Group.  With the foreign ministers of Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia, he discussed ways on partnering to support democracy, peace and security, human rights and the rulesbased international system.Together, the ministers also expressed their solidarity with the people of Belarus and committed to working with international partners to ensure that those responsible for violence and for undermining democracy in that country are held accountable.Finally, the ministers discussed the latest developments in NagornoKarabakh. They emphasized the urgent need to fully respect the ceasefire agreement and resume negotiations under the auspices of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe.These meetings in Lithuania come at the close of a fiveday tour of Europe during which the Minister also made stops in Greece, Austria and Belgium. His visit underscored Canada’s commitment to security, stability and prosperity, as well as its enduring transatlantic engagement, including through its NATO membership and close cooperation with the European Union, and European partners."
117,Readout: Minister Ng speaks with Mexico’s Secretary of Economy,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/10/readout-minister-ng-speaks-with-mexicos-secretary-of-economy.html,10/16/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, spoke with Graciela Márquez Colín, Mexico’s Secretary of Economy, on Wednesday, October 14, 2020.Minister Ng acknowledged Mexico’s participation in the Ottawa Group’s June 15, 2020 meeting and joint statement in support of an inclusive, sustainable, and resilient recovery, prioritizing greater transparency on export restrictions and predictable and open trade in agriculture and advancing negotiations on ecommerce. Minister Ng and Secretary Márquez pledged to work quickly to turn this statement into action.Minister Ng and Secretary Márquez also discussed their joint efforts to implement the CanadaUnited StatesMexico Agreement. And Minister Ng committed to continue working closely with Mexico to strengthen the 2 countries’ trade relationship to support both their people and their businesses, especially as they take steps toward economic recovery."
118,Readout: Minister Ng speaks with Mexico’s Secretary of Economy,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/10/readout-minister-ng-speaks-with-mexicos-secretary-of-economy.html,10/16/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, spoke with the Secretary of Economy of Mexico, Graciela Márquez Colín, on Friday, May 29.Secretary Márquez and Minister Ng shared ways that Mexico and Canada are working hard to keep their citizens safe and healthy while supporting businesses amid COVID19.During the conversation, Minister Ng highlighted the upcoming virtual Ottawa Group Ministerial meeting in June 2020, and she and Secretary Márquez agreed on the importance of enhanced business engagement as part of the initiative. The Minister and Secretary also discussed international collaboration to mitigate the impacts of COVID19 and how governments can support their people in global economic recovery efforts.Minister Ng raised the recent changes to Mexico’s energy policy and the Minister and Secretary agreed to maintain a dialogue on the issue.Minister Ng and Secretary Márquez also spoke about the importance of the CanadaUnited StatesMexico Agreement, particularly in the context of a postpandemic recovery. Minister Ng underscored Canada’s commitment to strengthening Canada’s mutual trade relationship with Mexico to benefit both our citizens."
119,Readout: Minister Ng speaks with Mexico’s Secretary of Economy,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/05/readout-minister-ng-speaks-with-mexicos-secretary-of-economy.html,5/31/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, spoke with Graciela Márquez Colín, Mexico’s Secretary of Economy, on Wednesday, October 14, 2020.Minister Ng acknowledged Mexico’s participation in the Ottawa Group’s June 15, 2020 meeting and joint statement in support of an inclusive, sustainable, and resilient recovery, prioritizing greater transparency on export restrictions and predictable and open trade in agriculture and advancing negotiations on ecommerce. Minister Ng and Secretary Márquez pledged to work quickly to turn this statement into action.Minister Ng and Secretary Márquez also discussed their joint efforts to implement the CanadaUnited StatesMexico Agreement. And Minister Ng committed to continue working closely with Mexico to strengthen the 2 countries’ trade relationship to support both their people and their businesses, especially as they take steps toward economic recovery."
120,Readout: Minister Ng speaks with Mexico’s Secretary of Economy,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/05/readout-minister-ng-speaks-with-mexicos-secretary-of-economy.html,5/31/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, spoke with the Secretary of Economy of Mexico, Graciela Márquez Colín, on Friday, May 29.Secretary Márquez and Minister Ng shared ways that Mexico and Canada are working hard to keep their citizens safe and healthy while supporting businesses amid COVID19.During the conversation, Minister Ng highlighted the upcoming virtual Ottawa Group Ministerial meeting in June 2020, and she and Secretary Márquez agreed on the importance of enhanced business engagement as part of the initiative. The Minister and Secretary also discussed international collaboration to mitigate the impacts of COVID19 and how governments can support their people in global economic recovery efforts.Minister Ng raised the recent changes to Mexico’s energy policy and the Minister and Secretary agreed to maintain a dialogue on the issue.Minister Ng and Secretary Márquez also spoke about the importance of the CanadaUnited StatesMexico Agreement, particularly in the context of a postpandemic recovery. Minister Ng underscored Canada’s commitment to strengthening Canada’s mutual trade relationship with Mexico to benefit both our citizens."
121,Belarus sanctions,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/10/belarus-sanctions.html,10/15/20,2020, backgrounders,"Effective immediately, Canada is imposing sanctions against Belarusian officials in response to gross and systematic human rights violations that have been committed in Belarus.Canadian measuresThe Special Economic Measures (Belarus) Regulations impose on listed individuals a prohibition on dealings (effectively an asset freeze) by prohibiting persons in Canada and Canadians outside Canada from dealing in any property of these individuals or providing financial or related services to them. The individuals listed in the Schedule to the Regulations are also rendered inadmissible to Canada under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act.The specific prohibitions are set out in the regulations.The names of the individuals added to the schedule of these regulations are:Aleksandr Mikhailovich AleshkevichAleksandr Vyacheslavovich AstreykoAleksandr BykovIrina Aleksandrovna TselikovetsOleg Anatolyevich ChernyshevMikhail Aleksandrovich DomarnatskiyOlga Leonidovna DoroshenkoAndrey Vasilyevich GalenkaMaxim Aleksandrovich GamolaAndrey Anatolyevich GurzhiySvetlana Petrovna KatsuboVladimir Viktorovich KalachSergey Alekseyevich KalinovskiyGennady Arkadyevich KazakevichSergey Nikolayevich KhomenkoAleksandr Vladimirovich KonyukAleksandr Mikhailovich LosyakinOleg Vladimirovich MatkinMaxim Yakovlevich MikhovichIgor Anatolyevich PlyshevskiyMarina Yuryevna RakhmanovaDmitry Vasilyevich ReutskiyAleksandr Svyatoslavovich ShepelevOleg Nikolayevich ShulyakovskiyOleg Leonidovich SlizhevskiyIvan Yuryevich Sokolovskiy    Sergey Yevgenyevich TerebovValery Pavlovich VakulchikAnatoly Anatolyevich VasilyevAleksandr Pavlovich VasilyevLeonid Zhuravskiy"
122,Canada imposes additional sanctions on Belarusian officials,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/10/canada-imposes-additional-sanctions-on-belarusian-officials.html,10/15/20,2020, news releases," Following the adoption of a first set of targeted sanctions in coordination with the United Kingdom on September 29th, the Government of Canada is today listing an additional 31 Belarusian officials under the Special Economic Measures (Belarus) Regulations.  This second set of sanctions is being adopted in coordination with recent actions taken by the European Union and the United States.These additional sanctions are being imposed in response to gross and systematic human rights violations that have been committed in Belarus. The aim is to maintain international pressure on the Government of Belarus to find a peaceful and negotiated solution to the current crisis.The sanctions announced today underscore broad international opposition to the Government of Belarus’ complete disregard for the basic principles of democracy and respect for human rights."
123,Minister Ng to lead virtual trade mission to South Korea,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/10/minister-ng-to-lead-virtual-trade-mission-to-south-korea.html,10/15/20,2020, news releases," The need for Canada’s trade to be well diversified has never been more clear. As Canadian businesses confront the challenges created by the COVID19 pandemic, the Government of Canada will continue to support the growth of established and aspiring exporters.Today, the Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, announced that she will lead a group of Canadian businesses on a virtual trade mission to South Korea. Conducted via a webbased conference, the trade mission will offer 2 separate programs to explore business opportunities in South Korea’s highly dynamic market:October 28, 2020 – A seminar on preparing for international markets offered to entrepreneurs in all sectorsNovember 5, 2020 – Sectorspecific events on helping businesses—particularly those in the life sciences, and information and communications technology sectors—take advantage of the CanadaKorea Free Trade Agreement (CKFTA) and the opportunities in the region’s digital sector.Interested business owners and entrepreneurs have until October 23, 2020 to apply.This builds upon the recently announced firstever virtual trade mission for women entrepreneurs to South Korea, hosted by the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada (APFC). On November 3 and 4, 2020, Minister Ng will participate in the APFC mission to support women entrepreneurs seeking to expand their businesses into the South Korean market."
124,Update - Minister of Foreign Affairs to hold media teleconference from Europe ,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/10/minister-of-foreign-affairs-to-hold-media-teleconference-from-europe.html,10/15/20,2020, media advisories," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, will hold a media teleconference to discuss his trip to Europe.
Minister Champagne has been travelling to Greece, Austria, Belgium and Lithuania this week where he met with key European partners to discuss how the international community can address the situations in Belarus, NagornoKarabakh and the Eastern Mediterranean.
Date: Friday, October 16, 2020 Time: 12:45 pm ET / 7:45 pm GMT+3 Notes for media: Media representatives wishing to participate in the teleconference should dial: 18668057923 or 6139607518, access code 9488937#."
125,50th anniversary of Canada-China diplomatic relations,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/10/50th-anniversary-of-canada-china-diplomatic-relations.html,10/13/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement:“Today, Canada and China mark the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations.“In 1970, the Government of Canada took an international leadership position by extending a hand to establish diplomatic relations with China, despite our different systems of government.“The reason was simple, and the rationale widely shared: the community of nations could not sustainably isolate onefifth of humanity from its international institutions. Dialogue, as challenging as it was, had to prevail over ignorance and fear.  “We continue to believe in the importance of our relationship. At the same time, this anniversary is an opportunity to reflect on the foundation of our bilateral relations and the path ahead. Indeed, 50 years on, Canada takes a sober view in examining our relationship, considering the importance of mutual respect and reciprocity, adherence to rules and principles, including human rights, and achieving results that are in Canadian interests. It is unacceptable that any citizen be arbitrarily detained. Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor must be brought home. This is something for which all Canadians stand united. The use of coercive diplomacy causes Canada to reexamine its approach, with a focus on multilateral cooperation.“As a Pacific nation, Canada recognizes that its future is tied to peace, stability and prosperity in the region. As we build a new framework for relations with China, Canada will work with partners to hold the Chinese government accountable to its international obligations. The common future of Canada and China depends on the rule of law, respect for rights and freedoms and for people in all their diversity. At the same time, we will continue to seek dialogue and cooperation where it makes sense to do so.“The bedrock of our relations—in the beginning and as it is now—remains the people of Canada and China. Together, we share longstanding connections that took root well before the establishment of diplomatic relations. These connections and the extraordinary contributions of Canadians of Chinese origin to Canada will outlive political cycles and continue to bring diversity and depth to our relationship for decades to come.”"
126,Minister Ng concludes successful meeting with provincial and territorial trade ministers,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/10/minister-ng-concludes-successful-meeting-with-provincial-and-territorial-trade-ministers.html,10/13/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, today hosted provincial and territorial ministers responsible for international trade for a virtual meeting. They discussed how working together to strengthen and diversify international trade relationships will accelerate Canada’s economic recovery from the COVID19 pandemic.Minister Ng and her provincial and territorial counterparts spoke about the need for open supply chains and a strong, rulesbased international trading system that Canadian businesses can rely on. They also noted the importance of advancing the transition to digital trade and ecommerce platforms for businesses of all sizes across the country.Minister Ng underscored the importance of collaboration among all levels of government to help Canadian businesses of all sizes—in particular small businesses—explore new opportunities in international markets and access the full benefits of trade.She highlighted Canada’s inclusive trade strategy that aims to help and encourage everyone—including women, Indigenous peoples, visible minorities, young people, and LGBTQ2 entrepreneurs—to grow their businesses and reach new markets.Minister Ng and her counterparts will continue working together as one Team Canada to support businesses and all Canadians as they continue to face challenges from the COVID19 pandemic."
127,Readout: Minister Ng speaks with Israel’s Minister of the Economy and Industry,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/10/readout-minister-ng-speaks-with-israels-minister-of-the-economy-and-industry.html,10/13/20,2020, news releases," Yesterday, the Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, spoke with Amir Peretz, Israel’s Minister of the Economy and Industry.Minister Ng and Minister Peretz discussed the ongoing collaboration between Canada and Israel in response to COVID19, including efforts to support economic recovery for workers and businesses in both countries. The ministers exchanged views on how to deepen the CanadaIsrael trade partnership, which is led by engagement in science, technology and innovation and strengthened by the modernized CanadaIsrael Free Trade Agreement (CIFTA).Minister Ng highlighted CIFTA’s potential to advance the CanadaIsrael partnership in the years ahead and reviewed ongoing joint work in implementing parts of the agreement that will ensure that the benefits of trade are more widely shared by people in the two countries. These include strong provisions on gender and small businesses, as well as high standards for labour and the environment.Minister Ng emphasized Canada and Israel’s steadfast friendship, as well as Canada’s continued commitment to strengthening all aspects of the relationship while supporting deeper trade ties, economic recovery, and growth in both countries."
128,Minister Gould statement on International Day of the Girl Child,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/10/minister-gould-statement-on-international-day-of-the-girl-child.html,10/11/20,2020, statements," The Honourable Karina Gould, Minister of International Development, today issued the following statement:“On the International Day of the Girl Child, we celebrate the power and promise of each and every girl born on this planet. This year’s theme—My Voice, Our Equal Future—reminds us that no matter where she is born, every girl deserves to thrive and be heard.“Since the beginning of the COVID19 pandemic, I have had the opportunity to hear from adolescent girls from the developing world. Through their clear and powerful voices, they shared how isolation and quarantine measures are making their lives even more difficult. They expressed concern about the increased risk of genderbased violence and harmful practices such as child, early and forced marriage.“Girls are worried that school closures and disruptions in education are cutting them off from their support networks, depriving them of their education and impacting their nutrition, as well as their sexual and reproductive health and rights. Despite all this, within their communities and beyond, these girls are leading efforts toward positive social change to protect girls’ rights and achieve gender equality.“This is why we support the health and rights of women and children with funding reaching $1.4 billion a year beginning in 2023. Through Canada’s Feminist International Assistance Policy, we support a comprehensive, integrated approach to adolescent girls’ empowerment that includes support for education and skills development, health and nutrition, advancing gender equality and addressing barriers, including sexual and genderbased violence; child, early and forced marriage; and early pregnancy.“Since 2016, through support to the United Nations Population FundUNICEF Global Programme to End Child Marriage, almost 8 million girls 10 to 19 years old have participated in programs providing health information, life skills, economic empowerment and social protection.“Canada envisions a world where adolescent girls are valued and empowered, have control over their own lives, fully participate in decisions that affect them in their homes and societies, and contribute to and benefit from development and prosperity.“We cannot forget that gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls in all their diversity is essential to achieving each of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals and promoting the human rights of every girl.”"
129,"Joint statement by François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Canada, Dominic Raab, and U.K. Foreign Secretary on situation in Nagorno-Karabakh region",https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/10/joint-statement-by-francois-philippe-champagne-minister-of-foreign-affairs-of-canada-dominic-raab-and-uk-foreign-secretaryon-situation-in-nagorno-k.html,10/6/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Dominic Raab, Foreign Secretary of the United Kingdom, today issued the following statement:“Canada and the United Kingdom reiterate the urgent need to end the continuing military action in and around the NagornoKarabakh conflict zone.“We are particularly concerned by reports of the shelling of civilian areas and wish to express our condolences to the families of those who have tragically lost their lives. The parties to the conflict must stop the violence and respect the ceasefire agreement.“We firmly support the statements made by the CoChairs of the OSCE Minsk Group. We urge all external parties and friends of both states to redouble their efforts in support of an end to hostilities and to refrain from taking actions that risk exacerbating the crisis. “A comprehensive resolution of the NagornoKarabakh conflict is overdue. That can only be delivered through a negotiated settlement and not through military action. All parties must urgently return to the negotiating table to work toward this aim without preconditions.”"
130,Biographical note: Jeff Yaworski,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/10/biographical-note-jeff-yaworski.html,10/2/20,2020, backgrounders,"Jeff Yaworski Senior Advisor Office of the National Security and Intelligence Advisor to the Prime Minister Privy Council Office Government of CanadaFrom 1985 until his retirement from the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) in 2019, Mr. Yaworski worked in various operational roles conducting and leading investigations. Throughout his 33year career at CSIS, Mr. Yaworski was promoted into positions with increasing managerial responsibility. His final five years at CSIS were spent as the Deputy Director of Operations, the number two position at CSIS, with responsibility for overseeing all CSIS operations both domestically and overseas. During this period, Mr. Yaworski had several lengthy assignments as acting director. Mr. Yaworski has fostered professional relationships and developed friendships across the Canadian intelligence community up to and including the deputy minister level. He has similar relationships within the 5Eyes community (comprising Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and the United States) and among many of Canada’s allied partners around the world.Mr. Yaworski’s extensive operational experience and seniority within CSIS has necessitated various briefings and appearances before the Federal Court, House of Commons and Senate Committees, the Security Intelligence Review Committee and the National Security and Intelligence Committee of Parliamentarians. He has also represented Canada in various international forums including NATO’s Security Committee."
131,Forensic team to support Canada’s ongoing response to Ukraine International Airlines Flight PS752 tragedy,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/10/forensic-team-to-support-canadas-ongoing-response-to-ukraine-international-airlines-flight-ps752-tragedy.html,10/2/20,2020, news releases," The Government of Canada continues to work with international partners to pursue a thorough and credible investigation into the Ukraine International Airlines disaster, which took the lives of 176 people, including 55 Canadians and 30 permanent residents of Canada.Significant questions remain surrounding the circumstances and cause of the tragedy. The families and loved ones of the victims deserve to know how and why Flight PS752 was shot down near Tehran.To that end, the Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced the formation of a Canadian forensic examination and assessment team, as recommended by the Honourable Ralph Goodale, Special Advisor for the Government of Canada’s ongoing response to the downing of Flight PS752.The forensic team consists of public servants from several federal departments and agencies with relevant skill sets and expertise, and is led by Jeff Yaworski, formerly the Deputy Director of Operations at the Canadian Security Intelligence Service. The team will collect, organize and analyze all available information, evidence and intelligence about the PS752 disaster, and will advise the government on its credibility and probative value. The team will report to the national security and intelligence advisor to the prime minister.The Government of Canada will continue to work closely with its international partners to advocate for transparency, accountability and justice, including by ensuring that Iran makes full reparations, for the victims of PS752 and their grieving families."
132,Minister Champagne announces funds to strengthen security sector reforms in Ukraine,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/10/minister-champagne-announces-funds-to-strengthen-security-sector-reforms-in-ukraine.html,10/1/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced that Canada will commit over $4.3 million to strengthen defence and broader security sector reforms in Ukraine as part of Canada’s wholeofgovernment support to the country.The contribution complements Operation UNIFIER, Canada’s military training and capacitybuilding mission in Ukraine, and will be implemented in partnership with the Parliamentary Centre and Alinea International. These funds will support projects that integrate technical expertise, genderbased analysis and resultsbased management tools to enhance security sector institutions.Canada’s partnership with Alinea International will advance governance and democratic accountability of the security sector by helping reform initiatives undertaken within security sector institutions in Ukraine.Canada’s contribution to the Parliamentary Centre will bolster the capacities of Ukrainian parliamentary committees to review and pass legislation required for security sector reform."
133,"Remarks by the Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade on the removal of U.S. tariffs on Canadian aluminum",https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/09/remarks-by-the-minister-of-small-business-export-promotion-and-international-trade-on-the-removal-of-us-tariffs-on-canadian-aluminum.html,9/30/20,2020, speeches," Ottawa, OntarioCheck against delivery. This speech has been translated in accordance with the Government of Canada’s official languages policy and edited for posting and distribution in accordance with its communications policy.On August 6, the United States announced its decision to reimpose unjustified and unacceptable section 232 tariffs on Canadian aluminum products. Let me be clear those tariffs were unacceptable and unjustified.Canada is not a threat to U.S national security. Canadian aluminum strengthens U.S. national security and has done so for decades through unparalleled cooperation between our 2 countries. Aluminum trade between Canada and the U.S. has long been mutually beneficial for both our countries, and tariffs would have harmed workers and industry on both sides of the border, disrupting linked supply chains that have made North American aluminum more competitive around the world.Our government stood strongly for workers and the industry by immediately announcing our intention to impose dollarfordollar countermeasures in a direct, measured and proportional response to these tariffs, following consultations with Canadian business, organizations, provincial and territorial partners and with individual Canadians.Today, the United States announced their intention to drop these tariffs on imports of Canadian aluminum retroactive to September the 1st 2020. Canada welcomes this decision. It’s a testament to the Team Canada approach as we all worked relentlessly to ensure these unjustified tariffs on Canadian aluminum were removed.I want to thank provincial governments, workers and the Canadian aluminum industry, who worked together with our government as one Team Canada to defend the interests of Canada’s critical aluminum workers and the aluminum industry. By sticking together and holding firm, we achieved the outcome that Canada wanted on behalf of hardworking Canadians in the aluminum industry.That’s why I can announce today, Canada will not be imposing reciprocal countermeasures on the United States. Let me be clear—Canada has not conceded anything. We fully retain our right to impose our countermeasures if the U.S. administration decides to reimposes its tariffs on Canadian aluminum products, and we’re prepared to do so. Canada’s motto has always been we will not escalate but we will also not back down.I have spoken to the representatives of the Canadian aluminum industry to inform them of this positive development and to assure them that Canada will always stand up for our aluminum workers and the entire industry. The last several months have been incredibly difficult for Canadians, and facing this time of great uncertainty, we have worked with countries around the world to keep people safe and to ensure our businesses are supported.At a time when our business owners and workers on both sides of the border have been facing severe economic hardship, these tariffs were the last things that they needed. Furthermore, with the new NAFTA coming into force – July 1st of last year, the fact is that we must work together to boost competitiveness in North America.Through robust new rules of origin for automobiles, the new NAFTA ensures 70% of aluminum purchased by North American automakers is produced in North America. Canada’s marketdriven aluminum industry will continue to respond to the demands of consumers and of our shared North American integrated value chain as it has in the past.Canada has always been and will remain the most stable and reliable source of aluminum supply for the United States, and now is the time to work together to advance the North American competitiveness with free trade under the new NAFTA. To the thousands of hardworking Canadians in the aluminum industry, we have your back. We will always defend you, the entire aluminum industry and Canadian interests. I will now turn to the Deputy Prime Minister and the Minister of Finance, Chrystia Freeland. Thank you."
134,Backgrounder: Belarus sanctions,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/09/backgrounder-belarus-sanctions.html,9/29/20,2020, backgrounders,"Effective immediately, Canada is imposing sanctions against Belarusian officials.Canadian measuresThe Special Economic Measures (Belarus) Regulations impose on listed individuals a prohibition on dealings (effectively an asset freeze) by prohibiting persons in Canada and Canadians outside Canada from dealing in any property of these individuals or providing financial or related services to them. The individuals listed in the Schedule to the Regulations are also rendered inadmissible to Canada under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act.The specific prohibitions are set out in the Regulations.The names of the individuals targeted by these regulations are:Khazalbek Bakhtibekovich AtabekovDmitry Vladimirovich BalabaAleksandr Petrovich BarsukovYelena Nikolaevna DmukhailoVadim Dmitriyevich IpatovYuri Khadzhimuratovich KaraevIvan Vladimirovich KubrakovAleksandr Grigoryevich LukashenkoViktor Aleksandrovich LukashenkoYuri Gennadevich NazarenkoLidia Mikhailovna Yermoshina"
135,Canada imposes sanctions on Belarusian officials,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/09/canada-imposes-sanctions-on-belarusian-officials.html,9/29/20,2020, news releases," In coordination with the United Kingdom and in support of the people of Belarus, Canada is imposing sanctions against Government of Belarus officials, including Aleksandr Lukashenko.  These actions are being taken under the Special Economic Measures Act.Since the fraudulent presidential elections in August 2020, the Government of Belarus has conducted a systematic campaign of repression and statesponsored violence against public protests and the activities of opposition groups. Canada remains deeply concerned by ongoing, welldocumented reports of human rights violations, including against freedom of the press, freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, as well as against free and fair democratic elections. The sanctions announced today are part of a broader diplomatic effort by Canada to find a way towards a positive change in the current situation in Belarus. These include efforts at supporting the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, advocating for media freedom and support to civil society."
136,Joint statement by Canada and the United Kingdom on the Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/09/joint-statement-by-canada-and-the-united-kingdom-on-the-armenia-azerbaijan-conflict.html,9/28/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Dominic Raab, Foreign Secretary of the United Kingdom, today issued the following statement:“Canada and the UK are deeply concerned by reports of large scale military action along the Line of Contact in the NagornoKarabakh conflict zone. Reports of shelling of settlements and civilian casualties are deeply concerning. We call for the immediate end of hostilities, respect for the ceasefire agreement, and the protection of civilians.“Any solution to this conflict must disavow violence and involve a peaceful, negotiated resolution through the framework provided by the OSCE’s Minsk process. We support the work of the OSCE’s Minsk Group and fully support the CoChairs statement of yesterday.”"
137,Canada deeply disappointed following resignation of Lebanese prime minister-designate  ,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/09/canada-deeply-disappointed-following-resignation-of-lebanese-prime-minister-designate.html,9/28/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement:“Canada was deeply disappointed and concerned to hear about the resignation of Prime Ministerdesignate Mustapha Adib.“We call on political leaders to work together and form a Government that will fully respond to the urgent and legitimate demands of its people. The Lebanese people deserve nothing less.“Canada remains ready to further support Lebanon’s leaders with the urgent, fundamental and serious reforms necessary to put the country on a path to recovery and reconstruction.“Impunity must stop. Reforms must be implemented. And the people of Lebanon must be heard. ”"
138,Statement by Minister Ng on third anniversary of Canada-EU Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/09/statement-by-minister-ng-on-third-anniversary-of-canada-eu-comprehensive-economic-and-trade-agreement.html,9/21/20,2020, statements,"  The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, today issued the following statement:“Three years ago today, the CanadaEU Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) came into force — an inclusive free trade agreement with high standards for consumers, workers and the environment.“Trade agreements like CETA are vital to our efforts toward economic recovery from COVID19, restoring supply chains, diversifying trade relationships and strengthening rulesbased trade for the 21st century — all to the benefit of our citizens.“This ambitious agreement has opened doors for Canadian and European businesses alike — including those owned and led by women, Indigenous peoples and young people — which has led to good jobs for Canadians and Europeans. This will be critical as we work together to fuel global economic recovery and growth that benefits everyone.“Since CETA came into effect, merchandise trade between Canada and the European Union (EU) has increased annually by over 21%. Today, the EU is Canada’s secondlargest trading partner; nearly $165 billion worth of goods and services flowed between us last year.“Building on these successes, we are addressing challenges that remain, such as improving EU market access for Canadian agricultural products through the removal of technical barriers to trade, and accelerating the accreditation of Canadian conformityassessment bodies responsible for certifying Canadian goods to EU requirements.“Canada will continue to ensure this landmark agreement secures new opportunities for Canadians in the dynamic and growing European market — including through our Trade Commissioner Service and its programs such as CanExport and the Trade Accelerator Program, to help Canadian businesses get exportready.”Associated linksCanadaEU Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement Trade Commissioner Service"
139,Minister Ng to mark CETA’s 3-year anniversary with the Canada-EU Trade and Investment Association ,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/09/minister-ng-to-mark-cetas-3-year-anniversary-with-the-canada-eu-trade-and-investment-association.html,9/19/20,2020, media advisories," The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, will mark the 3year anniversary of the CanadaEuropean Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement with a keynote speech at an event with the CanadaEU Trade and Investment Association. The Minister will focus on how CETA creates opportunities and will benefit Canadians on the road to economic recovery from COVID19. The Minister will then participate in a fireside chat with Noel Clehane, Chairman of the European Services Forum.
Event: Minister Ng will deliver a keynote speech and participate in a fireside chat. Date: Monday, September 21, 2020 Time: 9:00 am ET Notes: 

Open coverage via video call
Virtual media attendance: Media representatives who wish to attend must confirm their attendance with Ryan Nearing (ryan.nearing@international.gc.ca) by Sunday, September 20, at 9:00 pm ET to receive the video link."
140,Readout: Minister Ng speaks with Finland’s Minister for Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade ,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/09/readout-minister-ng-speaks-with-finlands-minister-for-development-cooperation-and-foreign-trade.html,9/18/20,2020, news releases," Yesterday, the Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, spoke with Ville Skinnari, Finland’s Minister for Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade. Ministers Ng and Skinnari discussed how innovation will benefit businesses, workers, and people in both Canada and Finland as the 2 countries work to build a sustainable economic recovery from the COVID19 pandemic—particularly in the areas of clean tech and digital transformation.They discussed how the pandemic has made open, rulesbased international trade more crucial than ever, particularly the need to strengthen and secure global supply chains, 1 of 6 areas addressed in the Ottawa Group’s Action Plan on COVID19.Citing increased trade between Canada and Finland since the launch of the CanadaEU Comprehensive Trade Agreement (CETA), the ministers recognized CETA as critical to creating new opportunities for Canadians and Finns alike.Ministers Ng and Skinnari agreed to continue working together to enhance Canada and Finland’s strong and stable trading relationship and to grow their economies in a way that is inclusive and sustainable for everyone."
141,Human rights violations allegations in Belarus to be investigated ,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/09/human-rights-violations-allegations-in-belarus-to-be-investigated.html,9/17/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement on the establishment of a mission of experts to report on the fraudulent Belarusian presidential election and the ongoing violent aftermath:“Canada condemns the ongoing allegations of serious human rights violations throughout Belarus and is increasingly concerned by the targeted violence against and continued repression of peaceful protestors, opposition members, journalists and human rights defenders. We applaud the brave women who stood up against violence.“In response to the flawed election process and the violent response by the authorities following the vote, Canada and 16 other Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe [OSCE] states have invoked the OSCE Moscow Mechanism to initiate a factfinding mission of experts to investigate and report on allegations of human rights violations.“Canada will continue to work toward a peaceful and inclusive resolution to this crisis while holding Belarus to its OSCE commitments to human rights and democracy.”"
142,Joint statement on Internet shutdowns in Belarus ,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/09/joint-statement-on-internet-shutdowns-in-belarus.html,9/17/20,2020, statements,"line. Governments should not block or hinder Internet connectivity, as shutdowns often undermine human rights and fundamental freedoms, including the rights of peaceful assembly and freedoms of association and expression, that form the basis of a democratic society. Internet shutdowns impact all users, especially marginalized groups and those in vulnerable situations. Shutdowns limit media freedom and the ability of journalists and human rights defenders to report on human rights violations or abuses and hold governments accountable. Shutdowns and restrictions also limit the dissemination and free flow of information, harm economic activity, contribute to social and political disorder, and negatively affect public safety.Human rights must be protected online just as they are protected offline. We call on Belarusian authorities to refrain from Internet shutdowns and blocking or filtering of services and to respect Belarus’s international human rights obligations, including under articles 19 and 21 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. We call on the Government of Belarus to respect civic space, including respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, democracy and the rule of law.Independent, transparent and impartial investigations into all allegations of human rights violations in the context of the election must be conducted and the perpetrators brought to justice."
143,"Canada congratulates Israel, United Arab Emirates and Bahrain on bilateral deals ",https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/09/canada-congratulates-israel-united-arab-emirates-and-bahrain-on-bilateral-deals.html,9/16/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement:“Canada welcomes the historic signing of the Abraham Accords at the White House, establishing full diplomatic relations between Israel and the United Arab Emirates, and Israel and Bahrain. “These accords will contribute to enhancing stability, security, and prosperity across the region. “As a longstanding friend of Israel and a steadfast partner of both Bahrain and the UAE, Canada looks forward to the opportunities these agreements will create for peace in the region. Canada stands ready to support these efforts.”"
144,Minister of Foreign Affairs welcomes start of negotiations between Afghan government and Taliban ,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/09/minister-of-foreign-affairs-welcomes-start-of-negotiations-between-afghan-government-and-taliban.html,9/13/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement:“Canada welcomes the start of negotiations between the Government of Afghanistan and the Taliban. After more than 40 years of conflict, this is a longawaited opportunity to pursue the elements of peace for the people of Afghanistan.“With the start of negotiations, we also call for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire to permit the ongoing provision of safe assistance to those in need, especially as the COVID19 pandemic continues to cause suffering in Afghanistan. A ceasefire would demonstrate to all Afghans the seriousness of commitments toward achieving a sustainable peace.“An effective peace process will require the meaningful inclusion of all parts of Afghan society, including women, ethnic minorities and other marginalized groups.“Canada stands ready to further support the people of Afghanistan as hopes for a peaceful future emerge.”"
145,Readout: Canada continues to lead international coordination on response to COVID-19,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/09/readout-canada-continues-to-lead-international-coordination-on-response-to-covid-19.html,9/10/20,2020, news releases," Today, the Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, hosted the 10th call of the Ministerial Coordination Group on COVID19 with his counterparts from Australia, Brazil, Germany, Morocco, Peru, South Africa and the United Kingdom.The ministers provided an update on their countries’ responses to COVID19 and ongoing multilateral work on vaccines and supply chains, reiterating the importance of maintaining strong global cooperation in ensuring the continued flow of medical supplies across borders.The ministers furthered discussions on the importance of multilateral vaccine research and development and ensuring equitable vaccine access to developing countries and vulnerable health systems.They also mentioned the ongoing need for coordination and multilateralism in response to the economic effects of COVID19.  Minister Champagne noted that Canada is pursuing an economic recovery plan that is inclusive, sustainable and resilient, including adapting the Export Diversification Strategy to reestablish and expand exports by Canadian companies.In closing, the ministers reiterated the importance of continuing to exchange information and coordinate efforts in the face of the COVID19 pandemic and agreed to meet again soon.In a world increasingly characterized by interdependence, speed and complexity, the Ministerial Coordination Group on COVID19 is proving to be a valuable forum to discuss, coordinate and act together on global challenges related to COVID19 and beyond."
146,Minister Ng announces Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada’s first virtual trade mission to South Korea for women entrepreneurs,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/09/minister-ng-announces-asia-pacific-foundation-of-canadas-first-virtual-trade-mission-to-south-korea-for-women-entrepreneurs.html,9/9/20,2020, news releases," Advancing women’s economic empowerment and participation in trade is fundamental to the Government of Canada’s Export Diversification Strategy and is key to ensuring that the country’s economic recovery from the COVID19 pandemic is inclusive and sustainable.Today, the Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, joined the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada to announce the first virtual trade mission to South Korea for women, supported by an investment from the Women Entrepreneurship Strategy’s Ecosystem Fund.Through a series of virtual sessions, panel discussions, and business training, this mission—which will take place on November 3 and 4, 2020—will promote the expertise of Canadian women entrepreneurs in STEM sectors such as healthtech, biotech, agritech, and edutech with a focus on innovative and sustainable solutions in care services.The mission will help Canadian women entrepreneurs explore opportunities in South Korea and help them grow their businesses in the international marketplace while also deepening the strong economic relationship between Canada and South Korea.Canada is committed to advancing women’s economic empowerment by championing inclusive and rulesbased trade that will help Canadian businesses and entrepreneurs overcome the impacts of the pandemic—ensuring that the global economic recovery includes all people, including women entrepreneurs, Indigenous business owners, and more.The Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada will select and coach 20 women entrepreneurs for this virtual trade mission through a series of virtual sessions occurring across a 2week period in the fall of 2020. Interested candidates have until September 21 to submit their delegate applications, and successful applicants will be required to attend the premission virtual training sessions."
147,G7 Foreign Ministers' Statement,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/09/g7-foreign-ministers-statement.html,9/8/20,2020, statements," We, the G7 foreign ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States of America and the High Representative of the European Union, are united in condemning, in the strongest possible terms, the confirmed poisoning of Alexei Navalny.Germany has briefed G7 partners on the fact that clinical and toxicological findings by German medical experts and a specialized laboratory of the German armed forces have determined that Mr. Navalny is the victim of an attack with a chemical nerveagent of the “Novichok” group, a substance developed by Russia. Mr. Navalny is in intensive care in a Berlin hospital and remains in a serious condition. Our heartfelt thoughts are with his family and we hope for his full and speedy recovery.Any use of chemical weapons, anywhere, anytime, by anybody, under any circumstances whatsoever, is unacceptable and contravenes the international norms prohibiting the use of such weapons. We, the G7 foreign ministers, call on Russia to urgently and fully establish transparency on who is responsible for this abhorrent poisoning attack and, bearing in mind Russia’s commitments under the Chemical Weapons Convention, to bring the perpetrators to justice.This attack against opposition leader Navalny is another grave blow against democracy and political plurality in Russia. It constitutes a serious threat to those men and women engaged in defending the political and civil freedoms that Russia herself has committed to guarantee. We call on Russia to live up to its commitments under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and to guarantee these rights, including the right to freedom of expression, to its citizens.We will continue to monitor closely how Russia responds to international calls for an explanation of the hideous poisoning of Mr. Navalny. We remain strongly committed to our support for democracy, the rule of law and human rights in Russia and to bolster our support to the Russian civil society."
148,Minister Ng to launch the Asia-Pacific Foundation of Canada’s women-only Virtual Trade Mission to Korea,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/09/minister-ng-to-launch-the-asia-pacific-foundation-of-canadas-women-only-virtual-trade-mission-to-korea.html,9/8/20,2020, media advisories," The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, will tomorrow launch the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada’s womenonly virtual trade mission to the Republic of South Korea.
Minister Ng will discuss the trade mission and highlight how ensuring everyone – including small business owners and women entrepreneurs – can access the benefits of trade, will be key to Canada’s economic recovery from COVID19.
Event: Minister Ng will launch the AsiaPacific Foundation of Canada’s womenonly virtual trade mission and moderate a panel discussion with delegates.Date: Wednesday, September 9, 2020Time: 12:30 pm ETLocation: 2 St. Clair Avenue West, Suite 800, Toronto, Ontario, M4V 1L5 Canada  Notes:

Open coverage
Inperson attendance: Media representatives who wish to attend in person must confirm their attendance with Ryan Nearing (ryan.nearing@international.gc.ca) by Wednesday, September 9,at 9 am ET. 
  
Important note: Media representatives attending in person must wear a mask or face covering. Individuals must not present any symptoms associated with COVID19 or have been in contact with anyone who has received a positive diagnosis within the previous 14 days.

Virtual media attendance: Media representatives who wish to attend virtually must confirm their attendance with Ryan Nearing (ryan.nearing@international.gc.ca) by Wednesday, September 9,at 9 am ET."
149,Minister Champagne to attend ASEAN-Canada Post-Ministerial Conference and ASEAN Regional Forum Ministerial,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/09/minister-champagne-to-attend-asean-canada-post-ministerial-conference-and-asean-regional-forum-ministerial.html,9/8/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced that he will attend the annual Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)Canada PostMinisterial Conference as well as the ASEAN Regional Forum Ministerial. The meetings will be conducted by video conference on September 10th and 12th 2020, respectively.The Minister will highlight Canada’s growing relationship with ASEAN member states and discuss concrete measures to help enhance political, social and cultural collaboration and cooperation.These meetings will also be an opportunity to discuss ways to promote security, good governance, trade and investment, as well as development partnerships between Canada and the IndoPacific region.Minister Champagne will also address how Canada, along with its partners in Asia and around the world, must continue to work together in the fight against the COVID19 pandemic while promoting the rulesbased international order.Official photos and videos will be posted on the ASEAN 2020 website."
150,Canada concerned by U.S. sanctions imposed on International Criminal Court officials,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/09/canada-concerned-by-us-sanctions-imposed-on-international-criminal-court-officials.html,9/4/20,2020, statements," Global Affairs Canada today issued the following statement following the recent sanctions imposed by the United States on officials of the International Criminal Court (ICC):“On September 2, 2020, the United States imposed financial sanctions against Fatou Bensouda, Prosecutor of the ICC, and Phakiso Mochochoko, Head of the Jurisdiction, Complementarity and Cooperation Division in the Office of the Prosecutor. Other unidentified persons were added to the U.S. visa restriction list.“Canada is disappointed by the US announcement and is worried about personnel of the International Criminal Court being targeted for the important work that they do.“Canada values the important role played by the ICC in investigating and prosecuting the most serious international crimes.“Canada will continue to respect the independence of both the judges of the court and of the Prosecutor of the ICC and her office.”Associated linksCanada and the International Criminal CourtJoint statement in support of the International Criminal Court"
151,Readout: Minister Ng speaks with France’s Minister Delegate for Foreign Trade and Economic Attractiveness,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/09/readout-minister-ng-speaks-with-frances-minister-delegate-for-foreign-trade-and-economic-attractiveness.html,9/3/20,2020, news releases," Yesterday, the Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, spoke with Franck Riester, France’s Minister Delegate for Foreign Trade and Economic Attractiveness, attached to the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs. They discussed how Canada and France will continue to work together to strengthen the economic relationship between both countries, creating jobs and promoting new opportunities for Canadian and French businesses as both economies begin to recover.Minister Ng impressed the importance of the CanadaEuropean Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) in providing opportunities and stability for businesses in support of global economic recovery from COVID19. The ministers discussed the importance of building inclusive economies, ensuring that small businesses and women entrepreneurs can access the benefits of trade.The ministers also acknowledged that fighting climate change is a key priority for both Canada and the European Union, and they committed to ensuring that the implementation of CETA and of the Paris Agreement are mutually reinforcing, including through the CETA Joint Committee recommendation on trade, climate action and the Paris Agreement."
152,Minister of Foreign Affairs to attend virtual G20 Foreign Ministers’ Extraordinary Meeting: Strengthening International Cooperation Across Borders,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/09/minister-of-foreign-affairs-to-attend-virtual-g20-foreign-ministers-extraordinary-meeting-strengthening-international-cooperation-across-borders.html,9/2/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced that he will attend a virtual G20 Foreign Ministers’ Extraordinary Meeting on September 3, 2020.The Minister is looking forward to discussing with his counterparts the lessons learned from the global pandemic and enhancing G20 coordination in response to COVID19, including in areas such as ensuring the movement of critical goods across borders, repatriation of citizens and assisting the most vulnerable.The Minister will also take this opportunity to note the importance of working together to restore global economic stability and ensure sustainable global economic growth."
153,Minister of Foreign Affairs condemns Alexei Navalny poisoning,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/09/minister-of-foreign-affairs-condemns-alexei-navalny-poisoning.html,9/2/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement:“Canada is deeply troubled by new reports from experts in Germany who concluded that Alexei Navalny, a prominent political opposition figure in Russia, was poisoned by a nerve agent of the Novichok group like the one used in the poisoning of Sergei and Yulia Skripal in Salisbury, UK in March 2018.“We strongly condemn this outrageous attack. Russian authorities must explain what happened so that those responsible may be held to account without delay. The use of chemical weapons is abhorrent and unacceptable. “Canada and the international community will continue to stand with Mr. Navalny and his family in their search for answers and justice.”"
154,Canada commemorates Lebanon’s centennial,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/09/canada-commemorates-lebanons-centennial.html,9/1/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement:“As a close friend of the Lebanese people, Canada commemorates 100 years since the founding of modern Lebanon. While this is a significant occasion worth celebrating, it also marks a turning point for the country.“During my recent visit to Beirut, I witnessed the truly inspiring resolve from those affected by the explosion to not only rebuild, but to also see a brighter future for themselves and their children.“Now more than ever, the current crisis underscores the need for meaningful change. It is time to listen to the Lebanese people and meet their demands for institutional reform so they can have a government that is based on equality, inclusivity and prosperity for all.“Canada is proudly supporting Lebanon’s recovery, including through financial assistance to humanitarian partners from our government and from Canadians. We reiterate that international assistance must be accompanied by reforms and impunity must end. We continue to stand with the Lebanese people.”"
155,Minister Ng co-chairs 9th annual ASEAN Economic Ministers Meeting-Canada consultations ,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/08/minister-ng-co-chairs-9th-annual-asean-economic-ministers-meeting-canada-consultations.html,8/29/20,2020, news releases," Canada and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) enjoy a strong and comprehensive bilateral relationship, underpinned by over 40 years of economic, security and political cooperation.As trading nations, ASEAN countries and Canada know that building comprehensive and inclusive trade partnerships benefit our businesses, our peoples and our economies—especially as we work toward economic recovery from the global COVID19 pandemic.Yesterday evening, the Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, virtually cochaired—along with Vietnam’s Minister of Industry and Trade, Trần Tuấn Anh—the 9th annual ASEAN Economic MinistersCanada consultations.Canada and ASEAN’s 10 member states renewed their commitment to deepen economic relations by endorsing the new, 20212025 Work Plan to the 2011 CanadaASEAN Joint Declaration on Trade and Investment. The Work Plan paves the way for us to build on these shared priorities and strong peopletopeople ties to create prosperity for businesses and people in both regions.With interests in clean tech, infrastructure, advanced technology, agrifoods and more, the Canadian and ASEAN economies are complementary in many ways, presenting opportunities for greater twoway trade and investment. This view was echoed in a presentation by the CanadaASEAN Business Council, in which it advocated for increased trade and investment between Canada and ASEAN member states.These multilateral discussions amid COVID19 demonstrate our shared commitment to open, rulesbased international trade and international collaboration during these unprecedented times.Canada will continue to work closely with ASEAN to build on our strong partnership to foster business growth, and fuel the economic recovery from COVID19 for people in both regions."
156,Minister Ng to co-host the ASEAN Economic Ministers-Canada Consultations virtually,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/08/minister-ng-to-co-host-the-asean-economic-ministers-canada-consultations-virtually.html,8/28/20,2020, media advisories,"host the 9th Annual consultations of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Economic Ministers with Canada, along with Vietnam’s Minister of Industry and Trade, Tran Tuan Anh.
Event: Minister Ng and the Economic Ministers of ASEAN’s 10 member states will meet to discuss how to deepen the CanadaASEAN trade and investment relationship, and will deliver opening remarks.Date:    Friday, August 28, 2020Time:    10:00 p.m. (ET)Notes:

Open coverage for opening remarks via video call. Journalists who wish to participate must confirm their attendance in writing to daniel.minden@international.gc.ca by 7:00 p.m. on Friday, August 28 to receive the video call link.
Media are asked to log on no later than 9:40 p.m."
157,Readout: Minister Champagne wraps up trip to Lebanon and Europe with stop to meet with U.K. foreign secretary,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/08/readout-minister-champagne-wraps-up-trip-to-lebanon-and-europe-with-stop-to-meet-with-uk-foreign-secretary.html,8/28/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, met today with U.K. Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs and First Secretary of State, Dominic Raab.The meeting took place at Hampton Court Palace near London.Minister Champagne and Secretary Raab discussed CanadaU.K. relations and cooperation on common priorities, including international security, human rights, climate change and media freedom.They exchanged views on Minister Champagne’s visit to Lebanon as well as his other key meetings, in Switzerland and Italy, earlier this week.The two also discussed coordination of the global response to the COVID19 pandemic and to the situations in Belarus, Hong Kong and the Middle East.Minister Champagne and Secretary Raab reiterated their commitment to ensure accountability and justice for the families of the victims of Ukraine International Airlines Flight PS752. They spoke of the need for Iran to conduct a full, transparent and independent investigation in accordance with international standards, including reparations to the victims and affected states.Finally, Minister Champagne and Secretary Raab discussed the U.K.’s upcoming G7 presidency as well as the United Nations Climate Change Conference, COP26, to be held next year in Glasgow, Scotland."
158,"Minister of Foreign Affairs to hold media teleconference from Beirut, Lebanon",https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/08/minister-of-foreign-affairs-to-hold-media-teleconference-from-beirut-lebanon.html,8/27/20,2020, media advisories," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs will hold a media teleconference from Beirut, Lebanon to update the media on his visit.
Event: Callback to Canadian mediaDate: Thursday, August 27, 2020Time: 11:00 am ET / 6:00 pm GMT+3
Notes for media: Media representatives wishing to participate in the teleconference should dial: 18882650903 or 6139607527, access code 2468663#."
159,Government of Canada matches $8 million in donations made by Canadians to respond to Beirut explosion,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/08/government-of-canada-matches-8-million-in-donations-made-by-canadians-to-respond-to-beirut-explosion0.html,8/27/20,2020, news releases," Canadians have shown time and again how generous they can be in times of need. This willingness to help when a crisis strikes is why the Government of Canada announced that it would match donations made by individuals to help the Lebanese people following the devastating explosion in Beirut on August 4.Meeting with Lebanese, Canadian and international humanitarian partners today in Beirut, the Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, announced that the Government of Canada will match, dollar for dollar, the full $8 million in donations made through the Lebanese Matching Fund as a result of the generosity of Canadians. These funds help meet essential food, water, health and other critical humanitarian needs.Global Affairs Canada will transfer the funds to the Humanitarian Coalition, which will in turn allocate the funds among its members based on criteria such as their capacity and presence on the ground.Officially hosted in Lebanon by his counterpart, Charbel Wehbe, Minister Champagne met with Michel Aoun, President of Lebanon, and with representatives from the United Nations, the Lebanese Red Cross, and other civil society organizations. He also spoke with family members of the two Canadians killed in the explosion."
160,"Joint Statement by European Union High Representative/Vice-President, Josep Borrell and the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Canada, François-Philippe Champagne",https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/08/joint-statement-by-european-union-high-representativevice-president-josep-borrell-and-the-minister-of-foreign-affairs-of-canada-francois-philippe-c.html,8/26/20,2020, statements," We, as friends of the Belarusian people and supporters of the sovereignty and independence of the Republic of Belarus, stand by the people’s wish for democratic change.We have clearly and repeatedly expressed our positions regarding the conduct of the 9 August presidential elections in Belarus and their aftermath. The presidential elections were neither free nor fair.The massive demonstrations in Minsk and across the country on Sunday 23 August should make it clear to the authorities that it is now urgent to launch an open and constructive national dialogue to find a way forward in Belarus.Belarus has international obligations, which we expect the authorities to respect. As an Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe [OSCE] participating state, Belarus has committed to holding genuinely democratic elections and to upholding human rights and fundamental freedoms. Only a peaceful and democratic process can deescalate the situation and provide sustainable solutions.Therefore, we support the Albanian OSCE chairmanshipinoffice proposal to support dialogue in Belarus by a joint visit with the incoming OSCE chairpersoninoffice, Sweden. We call on the Belarusian authorities to accept this proposal without delay. We call on all other OSCE participating states to support this proposal as well.We will continue to follow the situation closely and stand ready to contribute to efforts to peacefully resolve the crisis.Canada and the European Union will continue to stand with the people of Belarus and will continue to work with our international partners to ensure that their voices are heard and their rights upheld."
161,Readout: Foreign Affairs Minister François-Philippe Champagne meets with China’s State Councillor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/08/readout-foreign-affairs-minister-francois-philippe-champagne-meets-with-chinas-state-councillor-and-foreign-minister-wang-yi.html,8/25/20,2020, news releases," Today in Rome, FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, met with his counterpart from China, Wang Yi, State Councillor and Foreign Minister.The ministers discussed the importance of global collaboration in the face of COVID19, including the search for a vaccine, and in the postCOVID recovery.Minister Champagne again reiterated that the cases of Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor remain a top priority for the Government of Canada and that Canada continues to call on China to immediately release both men and to grant clemency to all Canadians facing the death penalty in China.Canada continues to call for immediate consular access to Mr. Kovrig and Mr. Spavor. China’s actions are in violation of the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations.Finally, the Minister also raised a number of areas of disagreement where Canada continues to make its positions very clear, while committing to ongoing discussions between Canada and China."
162,Minister Ng to tour small businesses and meet with CanExport recipients in the Greater Toronto Area,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/08/minister-ng-to-tour-small-businesses-and-meet-with-canexport-recipients-in-the-greater-toronto-area0.html,8/24/20,2020, media advisories," The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, will tomorrow visit and meet with representatives from small businesses across the Greater Toronto Area. She will highlight the Government of Canada’s emergency COVID19 supports and discuss how exporting to international markets is helping companies rebuild on the road to recovery. Also, at York University, Minister Ng will announce funding to support women entrepreneurs.
Event: Minister Ng will visit Bluewrist Inc. and discuss export opportunities.Date: Tuesday, August 25, 2020Time: 12:45 pm ETLocation: 75 Tiverton Court, Markham, OntarioNotes:

Open coverage in person and via video call.
Inperson attendance: Media representatives who wish to attend in person must confirm their attendance with Daniel Minden (daniel.minden@international.gc.ca) by Monday, August 24,at 4 pm ET.
Important note: Media representatives attending in person must wear a mask or face covering. Individuals must not present any symptoms associated with COVID19 or have been in contact with anyone who has received a positive diagnosis within the previous 14 days. 
  
Virtual media attendance: Media representatives who wish to attend virtually must confirm their attendance with Daniel Minden (daniel.minden@international.gc.ca) by Monday, August 24,at 4 pm ET to receive the video call link.


Event: Minister Ng will announce funding for women entrepreneurs and hold a media availability.Date: Tuesday, August 25, 2020Time: 2:30 pm ETLocation: Vari Hall (outside the building), Keele Campus, York University, 198 York Boulevard, North York, OntarioNotes:

Open coverage in person and via video call.
Inperson attendance: Media representatives who wish to attend in person must confirm their attendance by emailing fdo.rsvprsvp.fdo@canada.ca by Monday, August 24, at 4 pm ET.

Important note: Media representatives attending in person must wear a mask or face covering. Individuals must not present any symptoms associated with COVID19 or have been in contact with anyone who has received a positive diagnosis within the previous 14 days.

Virtual media attendance: Media representatives who wish to attend virtually must confirm their attendance by emailing fdo.rsvprsvp.fdo@canada.ca by Monday, August 24, at 4 pm ET to receive the video call link.

Event: Minister Ng will meet with representatives from local businesses—MEGAComfort International Inc., AirGate Technologies Inc., Matias Corporation and TROES Corp.—to discuss how CanExport is helping their businesses grow and export to international markets, and will deliver opening remarks.
Date: Tuesday, August 25, 2020Time: 3:30 pm ETLocation: 1600 Steeles Avenue West, Concord, OntarioNotes:

Open coverage in person and via video call for opening remarks only.
Inperson attendance: Media representatives who wish to attend in person must confirm their attendance with Daniel Minden (daniel.minden@international.gc.ca) by Monday, August 24,at 4 pm ET. 
  
Important note: Media representatives attending in person must wear a mask or face covering. Individuals must not present any symptoms associated with COVID19 or have been in contact with anyone who has received a positive diagnosis within the previous 14 days.

Virtual media attendance: Media representatives who wish to attend virtually must confirm their attendance with daniel.minden@international.gc.ca by Monday, August 24,at 4 pm ET to receive the video call link."
163,Joint statement by Minister of Foreign Affairs and Minister of National Defence on Ukraine’s Independence Day,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/08/joint-statement-by-minister-of-foreign-affairs-and-minister-of-national-defence-on-ukraines-independence-day.html,8/24/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and the Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of National Defence, today issued the following statement:“Today, on the 29th anniversary of achieving independence, we wish all Ukrainians a very happy Independence Day.“Nearly three decades ago, Canada became the first Western country to recognize the independence of Ukraine and since then has been proud to work closely with Ukrainians on their journey to becoming a vibrant and peaceful democracy.“Canada continues to be a close friend of Ukraine, working to advance peace and security in the region. Through Operation UNIFIER, the Canadian Armed Forces are assisting the Security Forces of Ukraine (SFU) to improve and build their capability and capacity. Since the start of the mission in September 2015, we have trained more than 18,000 members of the National Guard of Ukraine and the SFU.“We continue to work hand in hand with our allies in conducting joint delivery of training, such as the Maritime Training Initiative piloted by the United Kingdom. Canada, alongside coalition partners Sweden and Denmark, under the stewardship of the United Kingdom, will provide the SFU with worldclass naval expertise and training starting this fall.“Our common values and mutual cooperation has been the bedrock of our enduring relationship, from supporting Ukraine’s reform efforts to engaging more women in peace and security. These common values have served us well in the past and continue to do so, most recently as our nations have come together to jointly advocate for accountability, transparency, justice and reparations for the families and loved ones of victims of Flight PS752.“Canada’s support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity remains steadfast, and we will always remain a tireless advocate for a free and democratic Ukraine on its path toward a prosperous and secure future.”Associated linksOperation UNIFIERCanada’s engagement in Ukraine"
164,"Statement by Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade on WTO panel decision on Canadian softwood lumber ",https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/08/statement-by-minister-of-small-business-export-promotion-and-international-trade-on-wto-panel-decision-on-canadian-softwood-lumber.html,8/24/20,2020, statements," The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, today issued the following statement regarding the latest World Trade Organization (WTO) panel decision on United States duties on Canadian softwood lumber:“The Government of Canada welcomes the unanimous WTO panel ruling that U.S. countervailing duties against Canadian softwood lumber are inconsistent with the WTO obligations of the United States.“Canada’s forestry sector supports hundreds of thousands of good, middleclass jobs for hardworking Canadians in communities across our country, and we will always stand up for them.“Canada remains unequivocal: U.S. duties on Canadian softwood lumber are completely unwarranted and unfair. This decision confirms that. Canada does not subsidize its softwood lumber industry, and that is why we have challenged these U.S. duties at the WTO and under the former North American Free Trade Agreement.“Canada expects the United States to comply with its WTO obligations. U.S. duties on Canadian softwood lumber must not persist. They have caused unjustified harm to Canadian industry and U.S. consumers alike. U.S. homebuilders rely on Canadian lumber, and the current recordhigh lumber prices are hurting the economic recovery in both countries. Right now, during these difficult times, businesses and people in both our countries need support, not the burden of additional taxes.“We will continue to work closely with the provinces and our softwood lumber industry to defend the forestry sector and its workers.”"
165,Minister Champagne travels to Lebanon and Europe,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/08/minister-champagne-travels-to-lebanon-and-europe.html,8/22/20,2020, news releases," On his first overseas trip since the Covid19 pandemic began, the Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, will travel to Beirut, Lebanon, later this week and make stops in Switzerland, Italy and the United Kingdom.While in Beirut, the Minister will witness firsthand the devastation on the ground and meet with Michel Aoun, Lebanon’s president, and Charbel Wehbe, Lebanon’s foreign minister. Minister Champagne will also meet with Lebanese, Canadian and international humanitarian partners to witness the work of first responders and express Canada’s solidarity with the Lebanese people following this month’s tragedy. The Minister will take this opportunity to highlight Canada’s ongoing support for the international response to the crisis in Lebanon, including institutional reforms demanded by the Lebanese people.In Switzerland, Minister Champagne will visit Bern and Geneva to meet with Minister Ignazio Cassis, head of Switzerland’s Department of Foreign Affairs, as well as Roberto Azevêdo, DirectorGeneral of the World Trade Organization, and Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, DirectorGeneral of the World Health Organization. He will also meet with Michelle Bachelet, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, and with Peter Maurer, President of the International Committee of the Red Cross.In Italy, the Minister will meet with Luigi Di Maio, Italy’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation. Lastly, the Minister will travel to the United Kingdom to meet with Dominic Raab, Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs and First Secretary of State.Minister Champagne will follow all applicable health and safety protocols, including public health advice measures, and will quarantine for 14 days upon his return to Canada."
166,Readout: Minister Ng speaks with Singapore’s Minister for Trade and Industry,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/08/readout-minister-ng-speaks-with-singapores-minister-for-trade-and-industry.html,8/20/20,2020, news releases," On August 18, 2020, the Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, spoke with Chan Chun Sing, Singapore’s Minister for Trade and Industry.Minister Ng congratulated Minister Chan on his recent reelection and said Canada appreciated Singapore’s collaboration throughout the COVID19 pandemic.The ministers discussed their shared commitment to strengthening the rulesbased global trading system and developing mutually beneficial business opportunities for workers and businesses, including clean technology, agritech, advanced manufacturing and infrastructure. Minister Ng emphasized that creating new trade opportunities for Canadians and Singaporeans is key to helping economies recover in both countries.As economies around the world become increasingly digital in response to the pandemic, the ministers also discussed how Canada and Singapore can support their businesses in harnessing the powers of the digital economy and ecommerce.Minister Ng expressed her enthusiasm for working together with Singapore throughout Minister Chan’s term to further deepen the trade relationship between the two countries to benefit workers, businesses and people."
167,Minister Gould statement on World Humanitarian Day,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/08/minister-gould-statement-on-world-humanitarian-day.html,8/19/20,2020, statements," The Honourable Karina Gould, Minister of International Development, today issued the following statement:“On this day, we honour the bravery and dedication of humanitarian workers, who work tirelessly to provide lifesaving support and protection to the people most in need around the world. Every day, these reallife heroes put their own lives on the line to offer lifesaving care, such as food, water, protection and health services, in response to communities affected by crises.“This year, humanitarian workers continue to support the most vulnerable people, who are often already fighting the effects of natural disasters, climate change and armed conflict—and now must also face the challenges and risks of the COVID19 pandemic.“From addressing the devastating effects of COVID19 to containing locust invasions in Africa and Asia and responding to the recent explosion in Beirut, humanitarian workers continue to uphold humanitarian principles and to bring hope and relief to those in need. They save lives, protect dignity and alleviate the suffering of millions of people around the world affected by crisis and conflict.“World Humanitarian Day was established to pay tribute to humanitarian workers who have died in the line of duty and to honour those who continue to do their work with passion, conviction and courage. All too often, humanitarian and medical workers face threats to their safety and security. They may be subjected to targeted or indiscriminate attacks or other acts of violence that contravene international humanitarian law. For this alone, they deserve our gratitude and respect.“It has been widely recognized that women and girls often bear the brunt of crises. Humanitarian workers strive tirelessly to address their needs, including by taking actions to prevent, mitigate and respond to sexual and genderbased violence and by promoting sexual and reproductive health and rights.“Canada will continue to provide humanitarian funding to trusted partners as they respond to the urgent needs of people around the world. Today, we thank these reallife heroes, who make these responses possible.”"
168,Canada’s support for a coordinated humanitarian response in Beirut,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/08/canadas-support-for-a-coordinated-humanitarian-response-in-beirut.html,8/19/20,2020, backgrounders,"The Government of Canada has announced how it will allocate $13.5 million of its funding in response to the Beirut explosion. The funding is being distributed as follows.Humanitarian Coalition: Up to $3 million additional funding for the Lebanon Matching FundThe Humanitarian Coalition’s member agencies will undertake activities to help meet essential food, water, health and other critical humanitarian needs.Lebanese Red Cross: An additional $500,000The increased funding will further support the Red Cross response to urgent medical needs linked to the explosion.World Food Programme: $5 million  The funding will support critical food assistance needs, including through cash assistance, as well as enable ongoing logistics and transport capacity to maintain the continuity of food supply chains.United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees: $1.5 millionThe funding will provide essential shelter, health and protection, focusing particularly on the needs of refugee populations in the affected area.UNICEF: $2.5 millionThe funding will support the healthcare response, as well as improved water access and sanitation, for vulnerable people.United Nations Population Fund: $1 millionThe funding will provide protection and health activities, ensuring critical access to essential sexual and reproductive health care and supporting sexual and reproductive rights, maternal health, genderbased violence prevention and response services for vulnerable groups."
169,Canada’s humanitarian response in Beirut,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/08/canadas-humanitarian-response-in-beirut.html,8/19/20,2020, news releases," As the situation on the ground in Beirut following the August 4, 2020, explosion continues to be critical, the urgent, immediate needs of Lebanese and other affected communities are becoming clearer. The UN has launched an emergency appeal on behalf of 300,000 people; almost half of the appeal’s funding will go to food assistance. Currently, as many as a million people need health support and almost 300,000 need shelter assistance. Concerted and quick humanitarian action is required to help those impacted by the blast, including by providing them with health care, food, shelter and water.The Honourable Karina Gould, Minister of International Development, today announced that the Government of Canada will allocate $13.5 million of its funding in response to the explosion to UN humanitarian agencies and the Lebanese Red Cross. From this amount, it will also increase its contribution to the Humanitarian Coalition’s Lebanon Matching Fund by up to $3 million, bringing the government’s total potential contribution to $8 million. Together, this funding will support a range of humanitarian activities and a timely, effective and coordinated humanitarian response.With today’s announcement, Canada has allocated $20 million of the $30 million in humanitarian and development assistance earmarked to respond to the devastation the explosion caused. Canada continues to monitor the situation and remains in close contact with partners on the ground to determine the best way to distribute the remaining funding."
170,Statement by Minister Champagne on coup d’état in Mali,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/08/statement-by-minister-champagne-on-coup-detat-in-mali.html,8/19/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement:“Canada strongly condemns the coup d’état in Mali, which forced the resignation of democratically elected president Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta. “We call on the Malian security forces and those responsible for these acts to promptly follow Mali’s constitutional order and respect the human rights of all Malians.“Canada will work closely with the Economic Community of West African States, African Union, and United Nations to help ensure a return to a state of constitutional order and the implementation of the provisions of the Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation in Mali (Algiers Accord) so that Malians can have the peace they deserve.“Canadians in Mali who need emergency consular assistance should contact the Embassy of Canada in Bamako at +223 44 98 04 50 or bmakoconsular@international.gc.ca or contact Global Affairs Canada’s Emergency Watch and Response Centre at +1 6139968885 or sos@international.gc.ca.”"
171,Minister Champagne meets with Lebanese-Canadian community in Montréal,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/08/minister-champagne-meets-with-lebanese-canadian-community-in-montreal.html,8/18/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, met with members of the LebaneseCanadian community in Montréal, Québec, today.The Minister took the opportunity to offer his deepest condolences and support to members of the community whose family and friends have been affected by this tragedy.The Minister and community members discussed the situation in Lebanon in the aftermath of the devastating explosion in the port of Beirut on August 4, 2020. The dialogue focused on how Canada can best help the country not only through this difficult time but also in achieving muchneeded economic and political reforms. As many members of the community raised the issue of governance in Lebanon, Minister Champagne reassured them that Canada will continue to support the people of Lebanon in their demands for an effective, representative and accountable government. He also reaffirmed Canada's support through humanitarian assistance and the Canadian task force on Lebanon."
172,Canada announces new ambassador to Lebanon,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/08/canada-announces-new-ambassador-to-lebanon.html,8/17/20,2020, news releases," Today, the Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, announced the following diplomatic appointment:Chantal Chastenay becomes Canada’s new ambassador to the Lebanese Republic. Ms. Chastenay replaces Emmanuelle Lamoureux.Ms. Chastenay’s appointment comes at a crucial time for Lebanon following the tragic explosion in Beirut. She will lead the coordination of Canada's ongoing support in response to the crisis which includes addressing the immediate humanitarian crisis and providing support to rebuilding efforts going forward. Canada is providing a total of $30 million in assistance for the people of Lebanon."
173,Statement by Minister Champagne on Belarusian presidential elections,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/08/statement-by-minister-champagne-on-belarusian-presidential-elections.html,8/17/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement:“Canada joins its partners in the international community in condemnation of the crackdown on peaceful protestors following the presidential election in Belarus.“We do not accept the results of this fraudulent presidential election in Belarus and call for free and fair elections. “We further call for a thorough investigation to be conducted through the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe. “Thousands of people across Belarus are in the streets calling for an end to police brutality, the release of political prisoners and credible elections. “As I stated to opposition candidate Svetlana Tikhanovskaya during our call on Saturday, Canada will continue to stand with the people of Belarus, and we will work with our international partners to ensure that their voices are heard and that those responsible for undermining democracy and for brutal actions against protestors are held to account.”"
174,Joint Declaration of Support for Democratic Transition in Venezuela,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/08/joint-declaration-of-support-for-democratic-transition-in-venezuela.html,8/14/20,2020, statements,"led talks in Barbados should also inform the way forward. We reiterate the willingness of all those countries maintaining economic sanctions to discuss sanctions relief in the context of political progress. The humanitarian, social and political situation in Venezuela continues to deteriorate, underlining the need for a peaceful and inclusive political process that will restore democracy and set the country on course for recovery. The current pandemic and Venezuela’s overwhelmed public health care system have added urgency to the need to end the status quo. We are committed to continue our efforts to assist Venezuelans facing the pandemic and the previously existing humanitarian crisis on the basis of need, not political affiliation. We call for an end to all political persecution and acts of repression. Human rights defenders, humanitarian actors, health workers, journalists, members of Venezuela’s indigenous communities, members of the National Assembly under the leadership of Juan Guaido, and the Venezuelan population at large have all faced increased repression in Venezuela.We call on all political parties and institutions in Venezuela to engage promptly in, or in support of, a process that will establish a broadly acceptable transitional government that will administer free and fair presidential elections soon and begin to set the country on a pathway to recovery. For a peaceful and sustainable resolution of the crisis, a transitional government is needed to administer presidential elections, so that no candidate has an improper advantage over others.A swift and peaceful transition to democracy is the most effective and sustainable route to stability, recovery and prosperity in Venezuela. We remain committed to helping the Venezuelan people achieve a peaceful, prosperous and democratic future."
175,Canada welcomes bilateral agreement between Israel and the United Arab Emirates,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/08/canada-welcomes-bilateral-agreement-between-israel-and-the-united-arab-emirates.html,8/13/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement:“Canada welcomes the announcement made today by Israel, the United Arab Emirates and the United States that Israel and the UAE will begin normalizing relations. We see this as a historic and positive step toward peace and security in the region. “We are also pleased that the Israeli government has announced its decision to suspend the annexation of parts of the West Bank. As a friend and ally of Israel and a friend to the Palestinian people, Canada remains strongly committed to a twostate solution, including the creation of a Palestinian state living sidebyside in peace and security with Israel, and a comprehensive, just and lasting peace.“Canada will continue to work toward facilitating peace in the Middle East and upholding the rulesbased international order.”"
176,Canada deeply concerned by violence following Belarus presidential elections,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/08/canada-deeply-concerned-by-violence-following-belarus-presidential-elections.html,8/10/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement:“Canada is deeply concerned by the actions of Belarusian authorities following yesterday's presidential elections which have reportedly left at least one person dead, seen many arrested and further eroded the democratic legitimacy of the vote.""The people of Belarus have demonstrated their desire for democracy through their unprecedented mobilization over the past few weeks. Free, fair and inclusive elections are critical to any functioning democracy. Prior to the election, Canada had voiced its concern over the arrests of opposition candidates, prominent Belarusian bloggers and activists for participating in peaceful protests. We call on the government of Belarus to exercise restraint and uphold respect for human rights.""Canada remains committed to the people of Belarus. We will continue to closely follow developments and call for the results of Sunday's election to reflect the will of the people."""
177,"Statement by Minister of Foreign Affairs, Minister of International Development and Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade on the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples",https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/08/statement-by-minister-of-foreign-affairs-minister-of-international-development-and-minister-of-small-business-export-promotion-and-international-tr.html,8/9/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Honourable Karina Gould, Minister of International Development, and the Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, today issued the following statement:“Today on International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples, we celebrate the extraordinary richness and resilience of Indigenous traditions, cultures, values, and communities of the estimated 476 million Indigenous peoples worldwide. We acknowledge Indigenous peoples’ right to participate—and to be heard—in global, regional and local decision making. A more just, peaceful and prosperous world cannot be achieved without the meaningful participation of Indigenous peoples.“This belief in meaningful participation informs our inclusive and human rightsbased approach to international assistance, which aims to ensure no one is left behind. Canada is deeply concerned by the rising global trend of human rights abuses against Indigenous peoples and their communities, and we will continue to stand up for the rights of Indigenous peoples here in Canada and around the world.“Likewise, Canada’s inclusive approach to trade ensures Indigenous peoples and entrepreneurs can fully participate in and benefit from the opportunities created from international trade. That is why we established the tradefocused Indigenous Working Group, we include provisions and protections for Indigenous peoples in free trade agreements, and we offer specialized services and support for Indigenous business owners, including through the Trade Commissioner Service.“Lastly, we acknowledge the terrible ongoing legacy of racism and discrimination in Canada, and we are committed to fulfilling our mandates to accelerate and build on our reconciliation efforts in partnership with Indigenous peoples. This is a wholeofgovernment effort, which includes addressing the disproportionate rates of violence against Indigenous women and girls, and codeveloping legislation to implement the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples before the end of this year.”"
178,Statement on the Erosion of Rights in Hong Kong,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/08/statement-on-the-erosion-of-rights-in-hong-kong.html,8/9/20,2020, statements," “We, the foreign ministers of Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and the United States Secretary of State, are gravely concerned by the Hong Kong government’s unjust disqualification of candidates and disproportionate postponement of Legislative Council elections. These moves have undermined the democratic process that has been fundamental to Hong Kong’s stability and prosperity.“We express deep concern at Beijing’s imposition of the new National Security Law, which is eroding the Hong Kong people’s fundamental rights and liberties.“We support the legitimate expectations of the people of Hong Kong to elect Legislative Council representatives via genuinely free, fair and credible elections. We call on the Hong Kong government to reinstate the eligibility of disqualified candidates so that the elections can take place in an environment conducive to the exercise of democratic rights and freedoms as enshrined in the Basic Law. Beijing promised autonomy and freedoms under the ‘one country, two systems’ principle to the Hong Kong people in the SinoBritish Joint Declaration, a United Nationsregistered treaty, and must honour its commitments. We urge the Hong Kong government to hold the elections as soon as possible.”"
179,Backgrounder - Lebanon Matching Fund,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/08/backgrounder---lebanon-matching-fund.html,8/8/20,2020, backgrounders,"The Government of Canada has launched the Lebanon Matching Fund. It will amplify the support of Canadians and reinforce the response of Canada’s Humanitarian Coalition and its members as they address the humanitarian needs stemming from the devastating explosion in the port of Beirut, Lebanon, on August 4, 2020.For every dollar individuals donate between August 4 and 24, 2020, to the Humanitarian Coalition and its members to respond to the crisis, the Government of Canada will provide a dollar to the Humanitarian Coalition, up to a maximum of $2 million. will transfer the matching funds to the Humanitarian Coalition, which will in turn allocate the funds among its members based on criteria such as their capacity and presence in the affected region.For more information, please visit Canada’s response to the crisis in Lebanon and the Humanitarian Coalition."
180,Canada launches matching fund to respond to Beirut explosion,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/08/canada-launches-matching-fund-to-respond-to-beirut-explosion.html,8/8/20,2020, news releases," Canada is deeply saddened by the devastating toll of the tragic explosion in Beirut, Lebanon, on August 4, 2020. The generosity of Canadians when a crisis strikes is always remarkable, and their efforts in times of need make a difference.The Government of Canada is setting up the Lebanon Matching Fund to help Canadians mobilize resources to assist those affected by the explosion.The Honourable Karina Gould, Minister of International Development, today announced that the Government of Canada will match every donation made by individual Canadians to the Humanitarian Coalition and its members between August 4 and 24, 2020, up to a maximum of $2 million. The Matching Fund, created in collaboration with the Coalition, is an important mechanism that will help Canada deliver lifesaving assistance.The situation on the ground in Beirut is critical. Concerted humanitarian action is required to meet the immediate needs of people impacted by the blast, including health care, food, shelter and water.Canada continues to monitor the situation and remains in close contact with humanitarian partners to determine the best way to respond to this crisis."
181,Minister of International Development to hold press conference with an update on Canada’s assistance to Lebanon ,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/08/minister-of-international-development-to-hold-press-conference-with-an-update-on-canadas-assistance-to-lebanon.html,8/7/20,2020, media advisories," The Honourable Karina Gould, Minister of International Development, invites media to participate in a press conference for an update on Canada’s humanitarian aid to Lebanon following the devastating explosion in Beirut. Members of the humanitarian community will join the Minister.
Date: Saturday, August 8, 2020 Time: 10:00 am ET Notes for media: The minister will be joining via WebEx. Media representatives wishing to participate in the press conference can join in the following ways:

in person at 225 West Block, Parliament of Canada Ottawa, ON K1A 0A6; or
via teleconference at 18668057923 or 6139607518, access code 9124104#."
182,Readout: Minister Ng speaks with South Korean trade minister Yoo Myung-hee,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/08/readout-minister-ng-speaks-with-south-korean-trade-minister-yoo-myung-hee.html,8/7/20,2020, news releases," Yesterday evening, the Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, spoke with Yoo Myunghee, South Korea’s Minister for Trade.The ministers discussed the importance of international cooperation to defend the global economy against protectionism, keep essential trade flowing, and mitigate the effects of COVID19 on people in both countries and around the world.They also spoke about their support for the central role of the WTO in providing predictability for the 2 countries’ businesses, as well as the work of the Canadaled Ottawa Group to strengthen the multilateral trading system and modernize the WTO through meaningful reforms.Minister Ng and Minister Yoo agreed to work together to support women in trade and highlighted the role trade policy plays in advancing gender equality and women’s economic empowerment. The 2 ministers look forward to continuing their work to build an inclusive, sustainable and resilient economic recovery for people in both countries."
183,Readout: Minister Ng speaks with South Korean trade minister Yoo Myung-hee,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/08/readout-minister-ng-speaks-with-south-korean-trade-minister-yoo-myung-hee.html,8/7/20,2020, news releases," Yesterday evening, the Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, spoke with Yoo Myunghee, South Korea’s Minister for Trade, to discuss their commitment to supporting international efforts to keep the global economy strong while ensuring the health and safety of people around the world.The ministers spoke about getting small businesses and workers the urgent help they need to get through the COVID19 crisis. They also emphasized the need to keep global supply chains open, as reflected in the recent joint action plan to facilitate the flow of goods, services, and people issued on May 1 by Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Singapore, and South Korea.This close collaboration builds on the recent joint statements of G20 leaders and trade ministers, as well as Canadaled efforts at the World Trade Organization (WTO) to deliver commitments in support of rulesbased trade and open agricultural supply chains, which provide stability and predictability for small businesses and entrepreneurs. The ministers discussed how best to use the Canadaled Ottawa Group on WTO reform to address COVID19 challenges.Minister Yoo welcomed the possibility of a visit from Minister Ng in the coming year to mark the fifth anniversary of the CanadaKorea Free Trade Agreement’s entry into force. As female trade ministers, they also noted opportunities to support businesswomen in trade.Both ministers look forward to continuing to work closely together to advance trade policies in support of sustainable economic recovery and resilience for their small businesses and citizens."
184,Readout: Minister Ng speaks with South Korean trade minister Yoo Myung-hee,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/05/readout-minister-ng-speaks-with-south-korean-trade-minister-yoo-myung-hee.html,5/13/20,2020, news releases," Yesterday evening, the Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, spoke with Yoo Myunghee, South Korea’s Minister for Trade.The ministers discussed the importance of international cooperation to defend the global economy against protectionism, keep essential trade flowing, and mitigate the effects of COVID19 on people in both countries and around the world.They also spoke about their support for the central role of the WTO in providing predictability for the 2 countries’ businesses, as well as the work of the Canadaled Ottawa Group to strengthen the multilateral trading system and modernize the WTO through meaningful reforms.Minister Ng and Minister Yoo agreed to work together to support women in trade and highlighted the role trade policy plays in advancing gender equality and women’s economic empowerment. The 2 ministers look forward to continuing their work to build an inclusive, sustainable and resilient economic recovery for people in both countries."
185,Readout: Minister Ng speaks with South Korean trade minister Yoo Myung-hee,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/05/readout-minister-ng-speaks-with-south-korean-trade-minister-yoo-myung-hee.html,5/13/20,2020, news releases," Yesterday evening, the Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, spoke with Yoo Myunghee, South Korea’s Minister for Trade, to discuss their commitment to supporting international efforts to keep the global economy strong while ensuring the health and safety of people around the world.The ministers spoke about getting small businesses and workers the urgent help they need to get through the COVID19 crisis. They also emphasized the need to keep global supply chains open, as reflected in the recent joint action plan to facilitate the flow of goods, services, and people issued on May 1 by Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Singapore, and South Korea.This close collaboration builds on the recent joint statements of G20 leaders and trade ministers, as well as Canadaled efforts at the World Trade Organization (WTO) to deliver commitments in support of rulesbased trade and open agricultural supply chains, which provide stability and predictability for small businesses and entrepreneurs. The ministers discussed how best to use the Canadaled Ottawa Group on WTO reform to address COVID19 challenges.Minister Yoo welcomed the possibility of a visit from Minister Ng in the coming year to mark the fifth anniversary of the CanadaKorea Free Trade Agreement’s entry into force. As female trade ministers, they also noted opportunities to support businesswomen in trade.Both ministers look forward to continuing to work closely together to advance trade policies in support of sustainable economic recovery and resilience for their small businesses and citizens."
186,Readout: Minister Ng speaks with United Kingdom’s Secretary of State for International Trade,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/08/readout-minister-ng-speaks-with-united-kingdoms-secretary-of-state-for-international-trade.html,8/6/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, yesterday spoke with Liz Truss, Secretary of State for International Trade for the United Kingdom (U.K.).Over the past few years, Canada has actively worked with the U.K. to ensure a solid path forward as the U.K. prepares to exit the European Union single market.Minister Ng and Secretary Truss discussed work toward strengthening the trading relationship between Canada and the U.K., and creating opportunities for people in both countries to recover from the COVID19 crisis. Minister Ng reiterated the importance of providing predictability and stability for Canadian businesses.Minister Ng also welcomed the U.K.’s interest in the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for TransPacific Partnership (CPTPP). Canada looks forward to expanding the agreement to include new members that are able to meet its ambitious and highstandard commitments, to create new export opportunities for Canada across the AsiaPacific region and beyond."
187,Readout: Minister Ng speaks with United Kingdom’s Secretary of State for International Trade,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/08/readout-minister-ng-speaks-with-united-kingdoms-secretary-of-state-for-international-trade.html,8/6/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, today spoke with Liz Truss, the United Kingdom’s Secretary of State for International Trade.The ministers discussed the health, social, and economic impacts of COVID19 and the collaborative efforts undertaken by Canada and the United Kingdom to support our people through this difficult time as members of the G20 and at the World Trade Organization.They discussed opportunities to build on our partnership and agreed to work closely together to secure our strong and stable trading relationship going forward to grow our economies and benefit our people. This includes working together to modernize and reform rulesbased trade and the multilateral trading system to provide stability to our businesses and workers.Minister Ng and Secretary of State Truss agreed that continued international collaboration is critical to moving toward a global economic restart, and eventual recovery, in a way that is inclusive and sustainable, and supports our small businesses, workers, and all people."
188,Readout: Minister Ng speaks with United Kingdom’s Secretary of State for International Trade,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/06/readout-minister-ng-speaks-with-united-kingdoms-secretary-of-state-for-international-trade.html,6/12/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, yesterday spoke with Liz Truss, Secretary of State for International Trade for the United Kingdom (U.K.).Over the past few years, Canada has actively worked with the U.K. to ensure a solid path forward as the U.K. prepares to exit the European Union single market.Minister Ng and Secretary Truss discussed work toward strengthening the trading relationship between Canada and the U.K., and creating opportunities for people in both countries to recover from the COVID19 crisis. Minister Ng reiterated the importance of providing predictability and stability for Canadian businesses.Minister Ng also welcomed the U.K.’s interest in the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for TransPacific Partnership (CPTPP). Canada looks forward to expanding the agreement to include new members that are able to meet its ambitious and highstandard commitments, to create new export opportunities for Canada across the AsiaPacific region and beyond."
189,Readout: Minister Ng speaks with United Kingdom’s Secretary of State for International Trade,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/06/readout-minister-ng-speaks-with-united-kingdoms-secretary-of-state-for-international-trade.html,6/12/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, today spoke with Liz Truss, the United Kingdom’s Secretary of State for International Trade.The ministers discussed the health, social, and economic impacts of COVID19 and the collaborative efforts undertaken by Canada and the United Kingdom to support our people through this difficult time as members of the G20 and at the World Trade Organization.They discussed opportunities to build on our partnership and agreed to work closely together to secure our strong and stable trading relationship going forward to grow our economies and benefit our people. This includes working together to modernize and reform rulesbased trade and the multilateral trading system to provide stability to our businesses and workers.Minister Ng and Secretary of State Truss agreed that continued international collaboration is critical to moving toward a global economic restart, and eventual recovery, in a way that is inclusive and sustainable, and supports our small businesses, workers, and all people."
190,Conclusion of successful third CPTPP Commission meeting ,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/08/conclusion-of-successful-third-cptpp-commission-meeting.html,8/6/20,2020, news releases," Now more than ever, Canada must work to create new opportunities for businesses and all Canadians.The Government of Canada is committed to diversifying trade and investment with the dynamic, growing market in the AsiaPacific region. Ambitious trade agreements like the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for TransPacific Partnership (CPTPP) will help Canadian businesses and workers recover more quickly from the COVID19 pandemic.The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, participated yesterday in the third CPTPP Commission meeting, hosted virtually by Mexico.The meeting was an opportunity for countries to discuss how the CPTPP can foster business growth, and advance economic recovery for people in all 11 countries. The CPTPP ensures open and predictable access to international markets, which is crucial amid uncertainty caused by the COVID19 pandemic.Member countries also discussed the potential expansion of the Agreement to include new economies, and ways to ensure that our global economic recovery is inclusive and sustainable.The meeting concluded with all CPTPP countries issuing a Joint Statement highlighting shared priorities to reinforce open and rulesbased trade, and to strengthen global supply chains in the AsiaPacific region and around the world."
191,Minister of International Development to hold press conference regarding Canada’s assistance to Lebanon,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/08/minister-of-international-development-to-hold-press-conference-regarding-canadas-assistance-to-lebanon.html,8/5/20,2020, media advisories," The Honourable Karina Gould, Minister of International Development, invites media to participate in a press conference on Canada’s humanitarian aid to Lebanon following the devastating explosion in Beirut.
Date: Thursday, August 6, 2020 Time: 9:30 am ET Notes for media: The minister will be joining via WebEx. Media representatives wishing to participate in the press conference can join in the following ways:

in person at 225 West Block, Parliament of Canada Ottawa, ON K1A 0A6; or
via teleconference at 18668057923 or 6139607518, access code 3268606#."
192,Canada providing humanitarian assistance in response to Beirut explosion,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/08/canada-providing-humanitarian-assistance-in-response-to-beirut-explosion.html,8/5/20,2020, news releases," Today, the Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and the Honourable Karina Gould, Minister of International Development, announced that Canada is providing up to $5 million in humanitarian assistance in response to the tragic explosion that occurred in Beirut, Lebanon, on August 4, 2020.This includes an initial $1.5 million going immediately to trusted humanitarian partners on the ground, including the Lebanese Red Cross via the Canadian Red Cross Society, to help meet the urgent needs of people affected by this crisis.Canada’s contribution will help support emergency medical services and provide shelter, food and other essential items."
193,Minister Ng signs new Global Trade and Gender Arrangement with Chile and New Zealand,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/08/minister-ng-signs-new-global-trade-and-gender-arrangement-with-chile-and-new-zealand.html,8/4/20,2020, news releases," Advancing gender equality and women’s economic empowerment and participation in trade is a fundamental part of Canada’s Export Diversification Strategy and is key to ensuring that economic and trade recovery from the COVID19 pandemic is inclusive and sustainable.Today, the Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, hosted a virtual meeting with the members of the Inclusive Trade Action Group (ITAG): Andrés Allamand, Chile’s Minister of Foreign Affairs; Rodrigo Yañez, Chile’s Vice Minister of Trade; and David Parker, New Zealand’s Minister for Trade and Export Growth.The ministers signed a new Global Trade and Gender Arrangement, under which Canada, Chile, and New Zealand will work together to share best practices and promote gender equality, including in international organizations such as the World Trade Organization. The arrangement lays out clear steps to making sure the benefits of trade and investment are more broadly shared among people in Canada and around the world.The arrangement builds on Canada’s longstanding commitment to gender equality and inclusive trade and supports the three countries’ shared commitment to building economies where everyone can succeed.The ministers also discussed plans for ITAG’s future work and agreed to continue working together to ensure that global economic recovery includes all people and to break down barriers faced by women, Indigenous peoples, and others."
194,Statement from Minister Ng on final arbitrator candidates of WTO Multi-party Interim Arrangement,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/08/statement-from-minister-ng-on-final-arbitrator-candidates-of-wto-multi-party-interim-arrangement.html,8/3/20,2020, statements," The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, today issued the following statement:“Canada is committed to working with its World Trade Organization [WTO] member partners to ensure an open, stable, and predictable rulesbased trading system as we work to help our people and businesses recover from the effects of the COVID19 pandemic.  “Given the Appellate Body impasse, Canada and 22 other WTO members have put in place a Multiparty Interim Arrangement [MPIA] to allow for appeals of panel reports in trade disputes to be heard by arbitrators. This provides continuity for our businesses by preserving Canada’s right to a 2stage dispute settlement at the WTO among the 23 MPIA member countries.“Canada welcomes the conclusion of the process to select arbitrators for the MPIA—the final step needed to implement the arrangement—and thanks all members for their collaboration. An exceptional group of arbitrators has been confirmed, and the MPIA is now fully operational. “Canada appreciates all candidates who generously put forward their names for consideration and congratulates the following candidates on their appointments: Valerie Hughes [Canada], Thomas Cottier [Switzerland], Mateo Diego Fernández Andrade [Mexico], José Alfredo Graça Lima [Brazil], Yang Guohua [China], Alejandro Jara [Chile], Locknie Hsu [Singapore], Joost Pauwelyn [European Union], Claudia Orozco [Colombia], and Penelope Jane Ridings [New Zealand].“Canada continues to work with all WTO members to find a permanent multilateral solution to the Appellate Body impasse, as well as with interested WTO members who wish to join the MPIA.”Associated productsMPIA arbitrator notificationInterim appeal arrangement for WTO disputes becomes effectiveStatement on Multiparty Interim Arrangement for appealing trade disputes through WTOMinisterial statement on Multiparty Interim ArrangementMultiparty Interim Arrangement"
195,Canada congratulates Guyana on successful conclusion of presidential elections,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/08/canada-congratulates-guyana-on-successful-conclusion-of-presidential-elections.html,8/3/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement:“Canada welcomes the declaration of the Guyana Elections Commission and congratulates Irfaan Ali on his election as the ninth executive president of Guyana. “We look forward to working with President Ali and his government to advance our shared priorities.“Despite challenges in recent weeks, through these election results, the will of the people of Guyana has been reflected and the democratic process has been upheld.“Canada was pleased to support Guyana’s elections with technical assistance and assist the Carter Center’s election observation mission and CARICOM’s High Level Team, which observed the recounting of ballots.”"
196,Statement by Minister of Foreign Affairs and Minister of Diversity and Inclusion and Youth on Romani Genocide Remembrance Day,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/07/statement-by-minister-of-foreign-affairs-and-minister-of-diversity-and-inclusion-and-youth-on-romani-genocide-remembrance-day.html,8/2/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and the Honourable Bardish Chagger, Minister of Diversity and Inclusion and Youth, today issued the following statement:“Today, we pay tribute to the more than 500,000 Romani who were murdered and persecuted during the Holocaust by the Nazis and their collaborators.“Recognizing and commemorating the Romani genocide—also known as the Porajmos and Samudaripen—reminds us of the horrific consequences when we let intolerance and bigotry take root. We must not forget the atrocities faced by the Romani people and the harrowing stories of victims and survivors.“Still today, Romani populations around the world continue to be subjected to racism, prejudice, violence and persecution, especially Romani women, who endure significant discrimination and social exclusion.“As a member of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance [IHRA], Canada continues to work with others to promote greater awareness of the Romani genocide, including through the IHRA’s Committee on the Genocide of the Roma.“During these unprecedented times, we must recall that minorities around the world continue to be marginalized. We must continue to condemn all forms of discrimination, and we must never relent in our push for a more equal and more inclusive world.”"
197,Readout: Minister Ng speaks with Secretary-General of ASEAN,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/07/readout-minister-ng-speaks-with-secretary-general-of-asean.html,7/31/20,2020, news releases," On Wednesday, July 29, 2020, the Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, spoke with Dato Lim Jock Hoi, SecretaryGeneral of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).The Minister and the SecretaryGeneral discussed ways Canada and ASEAN would work together in support of their businesses and people in the global economic recovery from COVID19.They also discussed increasing trade and investment relations between Canada and ASEAN, as well as building on common interests and values, such as the commitment to strengthening the rulesbased global trading system.During the conversation, they reiterated the importance of international collaboration to ensure people receive the essential medical supplies and equipment they need through this global pandemic. The SecretaryGeneral expressed his appreciation to Minister Ng for Canada’s donation of personal protective equipment to ASEAN during the pandemic.Minister Ng and SecretaryGeneral Lim look forward to the ASEAN Economic MinistersCanada Consultations, planned for the end of August, where ministers will discuss opportunities to enhance the CanadaASEAN trade relationship to the benefit of small businesses, workers, and people in Canada and across the ASEAN region."
198,Readout: First meeting of the International Coordination and Response Group and Iran regarding negotiations on reparations related to the downing of Flight PS752 ,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/07/readout-first-meeting-of-the-international-coordination-and-response-group-and-iran-regarding-negotiations-on-reparations-related-to-the-downing-of.html,7/30/20,2020, news releases," Afghanistan, Canada, Sweden, Ukraine and the United Kingdom, members of the International Coordination and Response Group for the victims of Flight PS752, today issued the following readout:Today, representatives from the five members of the International Coordination and Response Group held their first meeting with Iranian officials regarding negotiations on reparations for the families of the victims of Flight PS752.The Coordination Group was represented by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine as its negotiating spokesperson. Negotiators from Afghanistan, Canada, Sweden and the United Kingdom were also present at the meeting.The Coordination Group members reaffirmed their commitment to cooperation and, once again, called on Iran to make full reparations for the downing of Flight PS752. Coordination Group members and Iran also discussed the preparations and organization for the upcoming rounds of negotiations.The Coordination Group reiterated the call on Iran to conduct a full, transparent and independent investigation in accordance with international standards, including accountability and justice for the families of the victims of this terrible tragedy."
199,Canada welcomes European Union’s announcement of new cyber sanctions listings,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/07/canada-welcomes-european-unions-announcement-of-new-cyber-sanctions-listings.html,7/30/20,2020, statements," Global Affairs Canada today issued the following statement: “Addressing cyber threats requires vigilance at home and coordinated action with partners internationally.“Canada welcomes the EU’s first listings of individuals and entities under their new sanctions regime for malicious cyber activity. It is an important step toward holding perpetrators of these acts accountable.“Canada is committed to building resilience, reducing threats, and promoting stability in cyberspace.  “We will continue to work with our international partners to develop measures aimed at preventing, deterring, discouraging and countering malicious cyber acts.”Associated linksEU imposes the first ever sanctions against cyberattacks"
200,Readout: Minister Ng speaks with India’s Minister of Commerce and Industry and Minister of Railways,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/07/readout-minister-ng-speaks-with-indias-minister-of-commerce-and-industry-and-minister-of-railways.html,7/29/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, spoke with Piyush Goyal, Minister of Commerce and Industry and Minister of Railways of India.They discussed their continued work together to facilitate access for agricultural and other food products, especially securing predictable market access for Canada’s worldclass pulses to India—a high priority for Canada.The ministers also agreed to continue to work together to promote sustainable economic growth as the world recovers from the effects of the COVID19 pandemic and to ensure that all countries have access to equitable, timely, and affordable tests, treatments, and vaccines.Minister Ng and Minister Goyal also spoke about ongoing negotiations on the CanadaIndia Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement and the CanadaIndia Foreign Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement, and discussed ways to support Canadian and Indian businesses and people alike, including in sectors like digital technology and clean technology."
201,Canada reaches partial agreement with Australia on wine,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/07/canada-reaches-partial-agreement-with-australia-on-wine.html,7/27/20,2020, statements," The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, today issued the following statement:“The Canadian wine industry is a vibrant part of our economy. The Government of Canada is committed to supporting this important sector, creating good jobs for Canadians and promoting the sale of highquality products.“Today, Canada and Australia announced a partial agreement regarding Australia’s World Trade Organization challenge against Canada, DS537: Canada—Measures Governing the Sale of Wine. The agreement reflects Canada’s strong commitment to the rulesbased international trading system, which is incredibly important for our businesses during these challenging times.“As part of this agreement, the Government of Canada has agreed to repeal by June 30, 2022, the federal excise duty exemption on wine as set out in subsection 135(2) of the Excise Act, 2001.“Canada’s objective throughout this process has been to ensure a competitive Canadian wine industry. The Government of Canada appreciates the collaboration of provincial partners and the wine industry in helping to resolve the issue. “Canada will continue to work with provincial governments and the domestic wine industry to seek further progress with Australia on this issue.” Associated linksSummary of understanding between Australia and Canada regarding certain measures related to the sale of wine maintained by the Government of CanadaSummary of understanding between Australia and Canada regarding certain measures related to the sale of wine maintained by OntarioSummary of understanding between Australia and Canada regarding certain measures related to the sale of wine maintained by Nova Scotia"
202,Summary of understanding between Australia and Canada regarding certain measures related to the sale of wine maintained by Nova Scotia,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/07/summary-of-understanding-between-australia-and-canada-regarding-certain-measures-related-to-the-sale-of-wine-maintained-by-nova-scotia.html,7/27/20,2020, backgrounders,"This confirms the understanding reached between Canada and Australia regarding certain measures maintained by the province of Nova Scotia, as outlined in Australia’s request for panel establishment in the World Trade Organization (WTO) dispute Canada  Measures Governing the Sale of Wine (DS537). This understanding comprises the following terms:With respect to the Nova Scotia Liquor Corporation’s Emerging Wine Regions Policy (EWRP):   a.  The Government of Nova Scotia commits to ensuring that the EWRP will be terminated and withdrawn in a phased manner no later than by the end of four years from the date this understanding takes effect. The phaseout will begin no later than between years two and three from the date this understanding takes effect.b.     The Government of Canada will report on steps taken towards implementation of the removal of the EWRP at sixmonth intervals, beginning from the date on which this understanding takes effect.c.     The Government of Nova Scotia will publicly announce, at an appropriate time and in coordination with Australia, that the EWRP will be terminated and withdrawn no later than by the end of four years from the date this understanding takes effect. The Government of Nova Scotia will share with Australia in a timely fashion and on a confidential basis the wording prior to the date the announcement is to be made.Canada and Australia will promptly and jointly notify the Panel that they have reached a mutually agreed solution with respect to the measures identified in items 1 and request that the Panel refrain from making any findings or recommendations, including in the interim report, with respect the Nova Scotia EWRP listed in Australia’s panel request.Australia agrees not to institute WTO dispute settlement proceedings against the measure referred to in item 2 unless Canada has failed to carry out the undertakings set out in items 1 above within the time periods specified therein.This understanding does not alter Australia’s claims with respect to other measures covered by DS537 and is without prejudice to Australia’s right to launch WTO dispute settlement proceedings regarding measures not covered by DS537."
203,Summary of understanding between Australia and Canada regarding certain measures related to the sale of wine maintained by Ontario,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/07/summary-of-understanding-between-australia-and-canada-regarding-certain-measures-related-to-the-sale-of-wine-maintained-by-ontario.html,7/27/20,2020, backgrounders,"This confirms the understanding reached between Canada and Australia regarding certain measures maintained by the province of Ontario, as outlined in Australia’s request for panel establishment in the World Trade Organization (WTO) dispute Canada  Measures Governing the Sale of Wine (DS537). This understanding comprises the following terms:The Government of Ontario will ensure that no additional restricted beer and wine authorizations are authorized under Ontario Regulation 232/16 and that any existing restricted beer and wine authorizations are converted to unrestricted beer and wine authorizations by August 31, 2020.The Government of Ontario commits to eliminate the tax difference between Ontario wine and nonOntario wine sold in offsite winery retail stores, including wine boutiques. The existing tax differential on wines sold in offsite winery retail stores will be phased out within three years from the date this understanding takes effect. In furtherance of this commitment, the government will introduce legislation in Ontario’s Legislative Assembly to eliminate the tax difference, and fully support its passage.The Government of Ontario commits to make the following amendments to Ontario Regulation 232/16:   a)     By the end of Year one from the date this understanding takes effect, amend the definition of “small winery” in subsection 43(2) to increase the annual worldwide sales threshold from 200,000 litres to no less than 375,000 litres.b)    By the end of Year two from the date this understanding takes effect, amend subsection (2) in section 25 to reduce the amount of dedicated shelf space from 50% to no more than 45%.c)     By the end of Year three from the date this understanding takes effect, amend subsection (2) in section 25 to reduce the amount of dedicated shelf space to no more than 40%.The Government of Canada will provide progress reports every six months in regard to items 13 above, beginning six months from the date this understanding takes effect, until the commitments therein have been fulfilled.Canada and Australia will promptly and jointly notify the Panel that they have reached a mutually agreed solution with respect to all Ontario measures identified in Australia’s panel request and request that the Panel refrain from making any findings or recommendations in its report in respect of those measures.Australia agrees not to institute WTO dispute settlement proceedings against any Ontario measure identified in the panel request for DS537 so long as: i) Canada carries out the undertakings set out in items 13 above within the time periods specified therein; and ii) any other changes made to the Ontario measures do not adversely affect the competitive opportunities afforded to Australian wine.This understanding is without prejudice to Australia’s views on the WTOconsistency of Ontario’s measures identified in the panel request for DS537. Furthermore, this understanding does not alter Australia’s claims with respect to the nonOntario measures covered by DS537 and is also without prejudice to Australia’s right to launch WTO dispute settlement proceedings regarding measures not covered by DS537."
204,Minister Ng participates in APEC trade ministers meeting and announces expansion of APEC-Canada Growing Business Partnership ,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/07/minister-ng-participates-in-apec-trade-ministers-meeting-and-announces-expansion-of-apec-canada-growing-business-partnership.html,7/25/20,2020, news releases," As the world continues to address the health and economic challenges of COVID19, it is more important than ever that Canada works with its international partners. And as a founding member of AsiaPacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), Canada recognizes the importance of working closely with the dynamic and fastgrowing economies in the AsiaPacific region.Yesterday evening, the Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, participated in the firstever virtual APEC trade ministers meeting to discuss strengthening rulesbased trade and upholding stable and predictable global supply chains.During the meeting, Minister Ng announced Canada’s intention to move forward with Phase II of the APECCanada Growing Business Partnership.This partnership, which began in 2016, has helped innovative entrepreneurs start up and scale up their businesses and access resources and connections in the AsiaPacific region with a focus on sustainable development. Phase II will help small businesses by reducing barriers to trade, giving back to their communities, and building economies that work for everyone—including women.Minister Ng and her AsiaPacific counterparts also signed onto a joint statement reaffirming their commitment to work together toward a path of inclusive, sustainable, and quick economic recovery for citizens and small businesses amid the global pandemic.This meeting builds on the recent ministerial APEC joint statement on COVID19 that highlighted Canada and its APEC partners’ unwavering commitment to collaborate on mitigating the health and economic impacts of the pandemic on our people.Canada will continue to work with international partners to build on collective knowledge, experience, and innovation to support small businesses and all Canadians amid this global health and economic crisis."
205,Readout: Minister Ng speaks with Minister of International Trade and Industry of Malaysia,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/07/readout-minister-ng-speaks-with-minister-of-international-trade-and-industry-of-malaysia.html,7/24/20,2020, news releases,"19 pandemic, Minister Ng and Minister Azmin bin Ali discussed strengthening the global rulesbased trade system, keeping supply chains open and resilient while deepening their trade ties.They also discussed how to ensure that the global economic recovery is inclusive by rebuilding economies where everyone can access the benefits of trade—including small business owners, women entrepreneurs, and Indigenous business leaders.Minister Ng indicated she was looking forward to the AsiaPacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) virtual trade ministers meeting, hosted by Minister Azmin bin Ali, taking place tonight. The meeting will be an opportunity for APEC ministers to discuss ways to keep markets open and ensure the free flow of trade and investment for the benefit of small businesses, workers, and people.Minister Ng highlighted the importance of international investment in Canada, particularly from the dynamic and growing market in Malaysia. Minister Ng and Minister Azmin bin Ali exchanged views on how they can continue to work together to deepen the economic relationships between Canada and Malaysia as well as other members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)."
206,Readout: Minister Ng speaks with Secretary of Trade and Industry of the Philippines,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/07/readout-minister-ng-speaks-with-secretary-of-trade-and-industry-of-the-philippines.html,7/23/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, spoke yesterday with Ramon Lopez, Secretary of Trade and Industry of the Philippines.Minister Ng and Secretary Lopez spoke about how Canada and the Philippines can continue to work together to support their businesses and people as the world rebuilds after the COVID19 pandemic.They also discussed the benefits of further developing the trade and investment relationship between Canada and the Philippines—ensuring that economic growth is inclusive and sustainable so that everyone can access the benefits of trade, including women and small business owners.Minister Ng and Secretary Lopez also highlighted how deepening trade relationships between both countries, as well as further cooperation between Canada and ASEAN nations, will lead to the creation of good jobs in Canada and the Philippines."
207,Minister Ng to mark the CAN Health Network’s one-year anniversary and visit small businesses in Niagara’s wine industry,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/07/minister-ng-to-mark-the-can-health-networks-one-year-anniversary-and-visit-small-businesses-in-niagaras-wine-industry.html,7/22/20,2020, media advisories," The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, will be visiting Mississauga and Niagara, Ontario, to highlight success stories on the oneyear anniversary of the CAN Health Network and visit small businesses in Niagara’s wine industry.
Event: Minister Ng will moderate a panel discussion with leading health experts and innovative tech companies who have benefitted from the CAN Health Network. A virtual media availability will follow.Date: Thursday, July 23, 2020Time: 11:00 a.m. (ET)Location: Trillium Health PartnersNotes:

Open coverage of panel discussion and media availability via Zoom.
No media will be allowed on site.
Media are asked to email Jacqueline.Ornelas@thp.ca by today 7:00 p.m. (Wednesday, July 22, 2020) to receive the login information.

Event: Minister Ng to visit the 13th Street Winery and their team to discuss how the government will continue to support Canada’s wine industry amid COVID19 and beyond.Date: Thursday, July 23, 2020Time: 4:30 p.m. (ET) Location: 13th Street Winery, 1776 Fourth Ave, St. Catharines, ON L2R 6P9Notes:

Open coverage of visit and media availability
Media are asked to register through ryan.nearing@international.gc.ca and to arrive no later than 4:00 p.m. (ET)People attending the event must not present any symptoms associated with COVID19 or have been in contact with anyone who has received a positive diagnosis within the last 14 days. Please note that wearing a mask or face covering is mandatory.

Event: Minister Ng to visit JacksonTriggs Estate Winery and their team to discuss how the government will continue to support Canada’s wine industry amid COVID19 and beyond.Date: Thursday, July 23, 2020Time: 5:30 p.m. (ET)Location: JacksonTriggs Estate Winery, 2145 Niagara Stone Rd, NiagaraontheLake, ON L0S 1J0Notes:

Open coverage of visit and media availability
Media are asked to register through ryan.nearing@international.gc.ca and to arrive no later than 5:00 p.m. (ET)
People attending the event must not present any symptoms associated with COVID19 or have been in contact with anyone who has received a positive diagnosis within the last 14 days. Please note that wearing a mask or face covering is mandatory."
208,Readout: Minister Ng speaks with Japan’s Minister of State for Economic and Fiscal Policy,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/07/readout-minister-ng-speaks-with-japans-minister-of-state-for-economic-and-fiscal-policy.html,7/22/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, spoke Monday, July 20, 2020, with Yasutoshi Nishimura, Japan’s Minister of State for Economic and Fiscal Policy.Building on the commitment made by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Japan’s Prime Minister Shinzō Abe to strengthen the strategic partnership between their countries, both ministers highlighted the importance of deepening already strong bilateral commercial relations and advancing open, rulesbased trade to create opportunities to grow our economies for the benefit of our people.The ministers discussed the importance of international coordination in response to the COVID19 pandemic to support longterm economic recovery for the citizens of both countries. They agreed on the key role of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for TransPacific Partnership (CPTPP) in helping mitigate the effects of COVID19 on international trade for small businesses, including women entrepreneurs.Minister Ng and Minister Nishimura emphasized the importance of promoting supply chain resilience. They reaffirmed their commitment to working together through the CPTPP to advance rulesbased trade to provide stability and opportunities for Canadian and Japanese small businesses, entrepreneurs and workers—and they look forward to the third CPTPP Commission meeting scheduled for August 5, 2020."
209,"Joint statement by the Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and the Honourable Harjit Sajjan, Minister of National Defence, on the Communications Security Establishment statement",https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/07/joint-statement-by-the-honourable-francois-philippe-champagne-minister-of-foreign-affairs-and-the-honourable-harjit-sajjan-minister-of-national-def.html,7/17/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and the Honourable Harjit Sajjan, Minister of National Defence, today issued the following statement:“In these challenging times, it is all the more important to defend our own health care organizations, national interest, and that of our allies, the United Kingdom and the United States, from malicious state actors attempting to steal information and intellectual property.“We must call out irresponsible state behaviour that violates the rulesbased international order and strive to live and work in a cyber environment that is open, stable, peaceful and secure. In Canada, we are committed to defending these principles in cyberspace, especially when they touch on the interests of Canadians.”"
210,Canada calls for a swift and transparent conclusion to the Guyanese election process,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/07/canada-calls-for-a-swift-and-transparent-conclusion-to-the-guyanese-election-process.html,7/15/20,2020, statements," Global Affairs Canada today issued the following statement:“Canada strongly regrets the extended delay in declaring election results in Guyana, a delay that has now lasted more than four months since elections were held on March 2.“We support calls by the Organization of American States, the Caribbean Community [CARICOM], the Commonwealth, the Caribbean Court of Justice and civil society organizations to announce the results based on the national recount, as validated by the CARICOM observer mission.“In the interest of the democratic rights of the people of Guyana, Canada firmly maintains that the rule of law and democratic processes must be respected and a declaration be announced without further delay.“Canada will continue to work with its partners in the international community, using all tools at our disposal, to demand a swift and transparent conclusion to the election process and hold accountable those who prevent it.”"
211,Canada concerned by violence along Armenia-Azerbaijan border,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/07/canada-concerned-by-violence-along-armenia-azerbaijan-border.html,7/15/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement:“Canada is concerned by the violence along the ArmeniaAzerbaijan border.“Alongside the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe’s Minsk Group, Canada urges both sides to refrain immediately from using force, to respect the ceasefire and protect civilians.“A resolution to this conflict must take into account the Helsinki Final Act, in particular the principles of nonuse of force, territorial integrity and selfdetermination.”"
212,Statement by Minister of Foreign Affairs on Srebrenica Memorial Day,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/07/statement-by-minister-of-foreign-affairs-on-srebrenica-memorial-day.html,7/11/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement:“Today marks 25 years since the Srebrenica genocide in Bosnia and Herzegovina.“Canada honours the memory of the victims, including the more than 8,000 Bosnian Muslim men and boys who were killed, and we mourn alongside their families and loved ones.“We join our voices to those who continue to push for truth and justice ever since this painful and horrific episode.“As a member of the Peace Implementation Council, Canada remains committed to supporting Bosnia and Herzegovina on its path to reconciliation and supports its development as a stable, economically viable and multiethnic democracy.“Canada condemns all war crimes unequivocally. We must always remain vigilant against the perils of prejudice and intolerance.”"
213,Ambassador Marc-André Blanchard and the Honourable Bob Rae to hold press conference,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/07/ambassador-marc-andre-blanchard-and-the-honourable-bob-rae-to-hold-press-conference.html,7/6/20,2020, media advisories," MarcAndré Blanchard, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Canada to the United Nations (UN), and the Honourable Bob Rae will hold a press conference following the appointment of Mr. Rae as Canada’s next ambassador to the UN.
Date: Monday, July 6, 2020 Time: 1:30 pm ET Location: West Block, Room 225, Parliament Hill, Wellington Street, Ottawa, OntarioNotes for media: Media representatives wishing to participate in the teleconference should dial 18662060153 or 6139549003. The access code is 2608203#."
214,Canada takes action following passage of National Security Legislation for Hong Kong,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/07/canada-takes-action-following-passage-of-national-security-legislation-for-hong-kong.html,7/3/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement:“Canada joins the international community in reiterating its serious concern at the passage of national security legislation for Hong Kong by the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress of China.“This legislation was enacted in a secretive process, without the participation of Hong Kong’s legislature, judiciary or people, and in violation of international obligations.“This process demonstrated disregard for Hong Kong’s Basic Law and the high degree of autonomy promised for Hong Kong under the ‘one country, two systems’ framework. Hong Kong’s role as a global hub was built on that foundation. Without it, Canada is forced to reassess existing arrangements.“Effective immediately, Canada will treat exports of sensitive goods to Hong Kong in the same way as those destined for China. Canada will not permit the export of sensitive military items to Hong Kong.“Canada is also suspending the CanadaHong Kong extradition treaty.“Finally, we have updated our travel advice for Hong Kong in order to advise Canadians of the potential impacts of the new national security legislation.“The Government of Canada will continue to work with partners to protect human rights and the rule of law around the world.“Canada will continue to support the many meaningful exchanges between Canada and Hong Kong, while standing up for the people of Hong Kong.”"
215,Readout: Call of the International Coordination and Response Group for the victims of Flight PS752,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/07/readout-call-of-the-international-coordination-and-response-group-for-the-victims-of-flight-ps752.html,7/2/20,2020, news releases," The International Coordination and Response Group for the victims of Flight PS752 held a call today.Members of the group (Afghanistan, Canada, Sweden, Ukraine, the United Kingdom) formalized a common approach to holding the Iranian regime accountable and signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation regarding negotiations on reparations by Iran, paving the way for statetostate negotiations.They also discussed the downloading of the flight recorders in France, compensation from Ukraine International Airlines and the criminal investigation into the tragedy.The group continues to advocate for accountability, transparency, justice and compensation for the families and loved ones of the victims."
216,Readout: Call of the International Coordination and Response Group for the victims of Flight PS752,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/07/readout-call-of-the-international-coordination-and-response-group-for-the-victims-of-flight-ps752.html,7/2/20,2020, news releases," The countries of the International Coordination and Response Group today held a call on the margins of Minister Champagne’s visit to Ukraine.The participants were:CanadaUkraineAfghanistanUnited KingdomSwedenIt has been almost two months since 176 people lost their lives in the Flight PS752 tragedy.During the call, all countries reaffirmed the Coordination Group’s objectives of closure, accountability, transparency and justice for the families and loved ones of the victims.They also discussed a way forward on timely and equitable compensation from Iran, consistent with international precedents.Further, they discussed in detail the options available to them, should Iran not abide by its commitments under the Convention on International Civil Aviation, to have the flight recorders downloaded and analyzed in a country with the capacity to do so, without delay."
217,Readout: Call of the International Coordination and Response Group for the victims of Flight PS752,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/03/readout-call-of-the-international-coordination-and-response-group-for-the-victims-of-flight-ps752.html,3/4/20,2020, news releases," The International Coordination and Response Group for the victims of Flight PS752 held a call today.Members of the group (Afghanistan, Canada, Sweden, Ukraine, the United Kingdom) formalized a common approach to holding the Iranian regime accountable and signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation regarding negotiations on reparations by Iran, paving the way for statetostate negotiations.They also discussed the downloading of the flight recorders in France, compensation from Ukraine International Airlines and the criminal investigation into the tragedy.The group continues to advocate for accountability, transparency, justice and compensation for the families and loved ones of the victims."
218,Readout: Call of the International Coordination and Response Group for the victims of Flight PS752,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/03/readout-call-of-the-international-coordination-and-response-group-for-the-victims-of-flight-ps752.html,3/4/20,2020, news releases," The countries of the International Coordination and Response Group today held a call on the margins of Minister Champagne’s visit to Ukraine.The participants were:CanadaUkraineAfghanistanUnited KingdomSwedenIt has been almost two months since 176 people lost their lives in the Flight PS752 tragedy.During the call, all countries reaffirmed the Coordination Group’s objectives of closure, accountability, transparency and justice for the families and loved ones of the victims.They also discussed a way forward on timely and equitable compensation from Iran, consistent with international precedents.Further, they discussed in detail the options available to them, should Iran not abide by its commitments under the Convention on International Civil Aviation, to have the flight recorders downloaded and analyzed in a country with the capacity to do so, without delay."
219,Minister Ng announces reappointment to Canadian Commercial Corporation board of directors ,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/07/minister-ng-announces-reappointment-to-canadian-commercial-corporation-board-of-directors.html,7/2/20,2020, news releases," Expanding access to international markets means more opportunities for businesses, workers, and all Canadians to succeed and prosper, particularly as Canada begins to restart and rebuild from the challenges posed by COVID19. The Canadian Commercial Corporation (CCC) helps Canadian exporters sell products and services abroad and helps international governments buy madeinCanada solutions.The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, today announced the reappointment of Christa C. Wessel as a director of the CCC’s board of directors for a 3year term.The board’s responsibility is to supervise the direction and management of the CCC, oversee its strategic development, and identify opportunities to help the organization serve Canadian businesses better.The CCC appointment is the result of an open, transparent, and meritbased selection process developed to attract highquality candidates while reflecting gender parity and Canada’s diversity in GovernorinCouncil appointments."
220,Canada announces assistance for those affected by conflict in Syria,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/06/canada-announces-assistance-for-those-affected-by-conflict-in-syria.html,6/30/20,2020, backgrounders,"Humanitarian assistanceCanada is working with experienced humanitarian partners to provide genderresponsive lifesaving assistance to millions of people in Syria, Lebanon, Jordan and Iraq. This funding will help crisisaffected people meet their basic needs, including by providing food assistance; protection; comprehensive health services; and water, sanitation and hygiene. This humanitarian assistance also provides access to essential social and public services and addresses the specific rights and needs of women and girls, such as those related to sexual and reproductive health and to sexual and genderbased violence.Canada will provide $430.3 million in funding in 2020 and 2021 ($236.5 million in 2020 and $193.8 million in 2021). Working through partners including UN agencies, nongovernmental organizations and the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, Canada ensures that the specific needs and priorities of vulnerable and marginalized individuals are addressed. A top humanitarian donor in the region, Canada fulfills its commitments as a signatory to the Grand Bargain for humanitarian assistance by providing multiyear and flexible regional funding to trusted partners.Development assistanceCanada is providing development assistance for longterm support in building the capacity and resilience of governments, communities and households in Jordan, Iraq and Lebanon. In Syria, Canadian programming aims to build the resilience of individuals and communities. Canada’s assistance in the region focuses on empowering women and girls and advancing gender equality; supporting effective and accountable governance; improving the quality and sustainability of genderresponsive social services, including education; and fostering economic growth that works for everyone.Canada will provide $170 million in funding in 2020 and 2021 ($90 million in 2020 and $80 million in 2021). In Iraq, Canada is helping to strengthen governance, build capacity to provide basic services, further gender equality and promote the economic empowerment of women and girls. In Lebanon, Canada’s efforts focus on expanding livelihood opportunities and on skills development for women and youth. In Jordan, Canada is working to improve access to quality public education for all children and also supports economic reforms and inclusive governance, including in municipal services. In Syria, programming aims to enhance gender equality by supporting women’s economic empowerment and local women’s organizations.Peace and stabilization assistanceCanada’s assistance through its Peace and Stabilization Operations Program supports the international efforts to investigate war crimes and crimes against humanity, improves security and aims to reduce tensions between host communities and Syrian refugees and supports the objectives of the Global Coalition Against Daesh.Canada will provide $19.8 million in funding in 2020 and 2021 ($12.5 million for 2020 and $7.3 million in 2021). In Syria, Canada supports the increased political participation of women and, through improved local governance, the provision of essential services and access to reliable, truthful information, as well as builds the resilience of communities liberated from Daesh. In Iraq, Canada supports critical infrastructure rehabilitation, explosivehazards clearance and communitybased conflict prevention, as well as accountability for Daesh crimes."
221,Canada reaffirms support for people of Syria,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/06/canada-reaffirms-support-for-people-of-syria.html,6/30/20,2020, news releases," The Syrian crisis continues to affect millions of people in Syria and neighbouring countries. Canada thanks Lebanon, Jordan and Iraq, as well as Turkey and Egypt, for their generous support in hosting so many Syrian refugees. Canada is committed to continuing its work with the international community and Syrians to put an end to the conflict through a sustainable political solution.The Honourable Karina Gould, Minister of International Development, today participated in the Brussels Conference on Supporting the Future of Syria and the Region. The focus of the conference was on addressing the critical needs of millions of people across the region and supporting a lasting political resolution to the Syrian war.During the event, Minister Gould delivered remarks underscoring Canada’s response to the situation in Syria and the region. Canada has committed up to $3.5 billion in funding for the region from 2016 to 2021, including significant humanitarian, development and stabilization assistance. As part of that total, Canada is providing $339 million in assistance in Syria, Lebanon, Jordan and Iraq for 2020 and $281 million for 2021."
222,COVID-19: Global Affairs Canada reminds Canadians to follow official travel advice,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/06/covid-19-global-affairs-canada-reminds-canadians-to-follow-official-travel-advice.html,6/26/20,2020, news releases," While some countries are preparing to partially open up their borders, the Government of Canada wants to remind all Canadians that a global travel advisory to avoid all nonessential travel outside Canada remains in effect. We also continue to advise travellers to avoid all cruise ship travel until further notice.Over the last few months, Global Affairs Canada undertook Canada’s largest and most complex ever consular operation to help Canadians return home during the COVID19 pandemic. The Government of Canada has largely completed that operation and is planning the final few remaining flights in the next weeks. Additional facilitated flights to bring Canadians home are not anticipated. Although we are doing all we can to support Canadians outside the country, we recognize that many may need to remain abroad. We strongly advise you to follow the Government of Canada’s official travel advice to ensure your personal safety and security. We encourage Canadians to talk to their travel insurance provider about extending their insurance policy should they need to and to find out whether they are covered for medical treatment if they become infected with COVID19.We acknowledge that the lives of Canadians outside Canada have been greatly impacted by the COVID19 pandemic. Those who remain abroad may experience difficulty in obtaining essential products and services and may face strict public health measures, movement restrictions and quarantines.  Despite the challenges posed by the COVID19 pandemic, Canada continues to work with governments around the world to ensure Canadians abroad receive all necessary medical and ongoing support.If you are currently abroad, you should:consult the Government of Canada’s Travel Advice and Advisories on Travel.gc.ca regularly for information on measures put in place at your locationread our advice for Canadians abroad at Travel and COVID19: Your safety and security outside Canadasign up with our Registration of Canadians Abroad service to receive important updatesstay up to date on developing situations through our Travel Smart app and our Twitter and Facebook channelsOur top priority remains the health and safety of Canadians. If you need medical attention or psychological support while abroad, our officers can help you find local emergency services and the nearest hospital. Contact the nearest Government of Canada office or the Emergency Watch and Response Centre for assistance."
223,Statement by Minister of Foreign Affairs and Minister of Transport on Iran’s decision to send Flight PS752 black boxes to France,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/06/statement-by-minister-of-foreign-affairs-and-minister-of-transport-on-irans-decision-to-send-flight-ps752-black-boxes-to-france.html,6/26/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and the Honourable Marc Garneau, Minister of Transport, today issued the following statement:“We welcome today’s announcement at the International Civil Aviation Organization Council meeting that Iran has finally formally committed to July 20 for the download of the data of the flight recorders of Ukraine International Airlines Flight PS752 at France’s Civil Aviation Safety Investigation and Analysis Bureau.“We will continue to hold Iran to account and seek accountability, transparency, justice and compensation for the victims of this tragedy, including a thorough, credible and transparent investigation.”"
224,Readout: Minister Ng speaks with Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation of the Netherlands ,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/06/readout-minister-ng-speaks-with-minister-for-foreign-trade-and-development-cooperation-of-the-netherlands.html,6/24/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, spoke today with Sigrid Kaag, Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation of the Netherlands.Minister Ng highlighted Canada’s commitment to further strengthening its ties with the Netherlands through the CanadaEuropean Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement, underscoring the opportunities the agreement creates for people on both sides of the Atlantic.The Ministers also discussed the importance of ongoing global cooperation and coordination in the COVID19 response and of finding ways to advocate for workers’ rights and fight climate change, while protecting the health and safety of Canada’s and the Netherlands’ people.They also spoke of the crucial role the WTO plays in keeping supply chains open so businesses and people in both regions can access the goods and services they rely on.Throughout the conversation, the Ministers discussed the WTO Ottawa Group as a valuable platform to support businesses as they shift online in response to COVID19, by helping entrepreneurs in health, financial technology, and clean technology harness the opportunities of the digital economy."
225,Backgrounder - Canada’s support for sexual and reproductive health and rights,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/06/backgrounder---canadas-support-for-sexual-and-reproductive-health-and-rights.html,6/22/20,2020, backgrounders,"The Government of Canada has announced $93.7 million in funding for sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) to support the efforts of a wide range of partners to help the poorest and most vulnerable people around the world. The funding is being distributed as follows.Better Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights for All in IndonesiaUnited Nations Population Fund (UNFPA)$8 million (2018 to 2022)The Better Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights for All in Indonesia project, in partnership with UNFPA and UNICEF, aims to transform SRHR for women and young people in Indonesia by addressing key gaps in the quality of birth attendants, access to comprehensive sexuality education and youthfriendly services for young people, as well as of advocacy and communitybased programming, using the male involvement approach and focusing on child marriage and female genital mutilation, for the prevention of genderbased violence and harmful practices.Improving SRHR of Women in Humanitarian ContextsIpas$1.2 million (2020 to 2021)This project comprehensively aims to build the humanitarian sector’s capacity to rapidly provide sexual and reproductive health and services in fragile and conflict settings. Project activities include:providing technical assistance and support to clinical facilities so they can develop or increase their capacity to provide contraceptive and sexual and genderbased violence services to refugee women in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladeshproviding training and support for clinical service providers and community mobilizersdeveloping a tool kit and set of guidelines for providing comprehensive sexual and reproductive health servicesMy Health, My ChoiceUnited Kingdom Department for International Development $50 million (2019 to 2021)Cofunded by Canada, the European Union, Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and the United States, the Health Pooled Fund supports the delivery, through the Boma Health Initiative, of basic health and nutrition services in hospitals, health facilities and communities in 8 of South Sudan’s 10 former states. Canada’s contribution to the Health Pooled Fund helps support the ability of women and girls to access quality health services, including sexual and reproductive health services, free from discrimination, coercion and violence.Girls’ Reproductive Rights, Empowerment Accelerated in TanzaniaUNICEF and UNFPA $20 million (2019 to 2023)This project works to empower and improve the SRHR and wellbeing of vulnerable Tanzanian adolescent girls through a multifaceted and comprehensive approach and by working with adolescent boys and girls and with parents, communities and governments. Project activities include:increasing the supply of, and demand for, a full range of SRHR and nutrition services and information for adolescent girls establishing a platform for adolescent girls to share views on, and gain knowledge of, their SRHR and nutrition and empowerment issues, and leveraging this platform for SRHR advocacybuilding evidence and proposing innovative solutions for enhanced government programming, policy, advocacy and accountability in adolescent girls’ SRHR and nutrition issues and gapsEmpowering Women and Girls in SRHR and GenderBased ViolenceUNFPA and UNICEF  $4.5 million (2019 to 2024)This project will work at the local level with communities and service providers to support the South African government in closing the gap between policy about, and implementation of, SRHR services and awareness.Strengthening SRHR through Midwives in SomaliaUNFPA $10 million (2020 to 2025)This project aims to reduce maternal mortality and increase SRHR for women and girls between the ages of 14 and 49 in Somalia. More specifically, the project works to improve the availability and accessibility of professionally trained and certified midwives who are able to provide highquality, rightsbased SRHR services to these women and adolescent girls. The project also addresses underlying barriers to women’s and adolescent girls’ demand for, and use of, midwifery services by increasing awareness at the community level of midwifery and SRHR."
226,Readout: Minister Champagne holds call with Iranian Foreign Minister regarding PS752,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/06/readout-minister-champagne-holds-call-with-iranian-foreign-minister-regarding-ps752.html,6/22/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today held a call with Mohammad Javad Zarif, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Iran.Minister Champagne was clear: immediate action is required from Iran to ensure they conduct a comprehensive, transparent investigation and provide compensation for families.Minister Zarif committed to Iran sending the flight recorders to France for analysis without further delay. Iran will detail its progress on this issue at the International Civil Aviation Organization this week.He also agreed to enter into negotiations for reparations, and to provide an update to Canada and the other grieving nations at the next meeting of the International Coordination and Response Group.Canada will continue working with its partners to ensure Iran follows through on its commitments and to ensure transparency, accountability, justice and closure for the families of the victims of this tragedy."
227,Canada extremely concerned by formal charges being laid against Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/06/canadaextremelyconcerned-by-formal-charges-being-laid-against-michael-kovrig-and-michael-spavor.html,6/19/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement:“We are aware that China has chosen to proceed with formal charges against Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor. Canada is extremely disappointed and concerned.“As the Government of Canada has stated from the outset, Mr. Kovrig and Mr. Spavor have been arbitrarily detained.“Canada continues to call on China to immediately release them.“The cases of Mr. Kovrig and Mr. Spavor remain a top priority for the Government of Canada.“We are deeply concerned that Canadian officials have not been granted consular access to Mr. Kovrig or Mr. Spavor since midJanuary.“Canada continues to request immediate consular access to Mr. Kovrig and Mr. Spavor, in accordance with the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations.“Canada will continue to advocate on behalf of Mr. Kovrig and Mr. Spavor alongside its international partners.”"
228,Statement on World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/06/statement-on-world-day-to-combat-desertification-and-drought.html,6/17/20,2020, statements,"term strategies, which are supported by international cooperation. Dryland ecosystems cover more than a third of the world’s land area and are often subject to inappropriate land use and overuse, as people strive to meet the immediate food, water and energy needs of their families. We know that as land degrades, political instability, conflict and migration increase—with devastating consequences for the land and the people who live on it.This year’s theme for World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought, “Food. Feed. Fibre.” appropriately links public consumption habits to land use. As populations become larger and more urban, the demand for land increases to meet the demand for food, animal feed and fibre for clothing. This leads to a decline in the viability of arable land, which is made worse by more extreme climate conditions. While the COVID19 pandemic has given people everywhere pause to reconsider their consumption habits, and humanity’s reliance on land for its wellbeing and health, we already know where there is work that needs to be done.In developing countries, desertification affects women and girls disproportionately. Even though women produce 60% to 80% of food, they do not have equal access to land ownership, or the technology and financing that could help them become more climate resilient. A remarkable 20% to 30% of land has the potential to be restored through the use of sustainable practices.To help address this, Canada is proud to provide $6 million to accelerate implementation of UNCCD’s Gender Action Plan, as announced by Prime Minister Trudeau in Senegal earlier this year. We must make sure that women’s needs, perspectives and knowledge help to shape solutions to this critical situation. And as we begin the UN Decade of Ecosystem Restoration, we must make strengthening the resilience of the world’s food systems a key element of our efforts to reduce the impacts of drought and desertification and the effects of the COVID19 pandemic on global poverty and food insecurity."
229,Minister of Foreign Affairs to hold press conference following the UN Security Council election results,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/06/minister-of-foreign-affairs-to-hold-press-conference-following-the-un-security-council-election-results.html,6/17/20,2020, media advisories," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, invites media to participate in a press conference on the results of the United Nations Security Council elections. 
Date: Wednesday, June 17, 2020Time: 5:30 pm ETNotes for media: Media representatives wishing to participate in the conference can join in the following ways:

in person at 237 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10017 via Depew Place – please send name of reporter and camera operator to Grantly Franklin;
via teleconference at 18668057923 or 6139607518, access code 6482331#; or
via livestream on Twitter @CanadaFP and on Facebook Canada’s foreign policy  Global Affairs Canada"
230,G7 Foreign Ministers’ Statement on Hong Kong,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/06/g7-foreign-ministers-statement-on-hong-kong.html,6/17/20,2020, statements,"We, the Foreign Ministers of the United States, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the High Representative of the European Union underscore our grave concern regarding China’s decision to impose a national security law on Hong Kong.China’s decision is not in conformity with the Hong Kong Basic Law and its international commitments under the principles of the legally binding, UNregistered SinoBritish Joint Declaration. The proposed national security law would risk seriously undermining the “One Country, Two Systems” principle and the territory’s high degree of autonomy. It would jeopardize the system which has allowed Hong Kong to flourish and made it a success over many years.Open debate, consultation with stakeholders and respect for protected rights and freedoms in Hong Kong are essential.We are also extremely concerned that this action would curtail and threaten the fundamental rights and freedoms of all the population protected by the rule of law and the existence of an independent justice system.We strongly urge the Government of China to reconsider this decision."
231,Canada’s ongoing humanitarian efforts in response to COVID-19 pandemic,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/06/canadas-ongoing-humanitarian-efforts-in-response-to-covid-19-pandemic.html,6/15/20,2020, news releases," The COVID19 pandemic knows no borders, and overcoming this pandemic will require coordinated action around the world to provide support to those who need it most.Today, the Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of National Defence, and the Honourable Karina Gould, Minister of International Development, announced that in response to a request from the United Nations (UN), the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) will provide airlift support to transport urgently needed medical and humanitarian supplies.The CAF will transport these supplies to and from distribution hubs in Africa, Europe and the Middle East on behalf of the World Food Programme and the World Health Organization. As needs continue to evolve, the CAF will be flexible in its response.This support comes in response to an urgent request by the UN to help maintain vital supply chains to vulnerable countries. It also complements Canada’s international efforts to address the ongoing pandemic, including by funding international partners providing lifesaving humanitarian assistance."
232,Minister Ng concludes successful Canada-led Ottawa Group meeting on World Trade Organization reform and COVID-19,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/06/minister-ng-concludes-successful-canada-led-ottawa-group-meeting-on-world-trade-organization-reform-and-covid-19.html,6/15/20,2020, news releases," Canada believes that—now more than ever—we must work closely together with our international trading partners because Canadians depend on open and flowing trade.Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau participated in a virtual meeting of the Ottawa Group on World Trade Organization (WTO) reform in the context of COVID19. The meeting was hosted by the Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, who successfully concluded the discussions with international partners.Canada and the Ottawa Group continue to provide leadership, critical thinking and analysis, as well as concrete ideas and proposals, on actions that they and other WTO member countries can take to lessen the economic impacts of COVID19 on people around the world, and ensure we are better positioned to deal with future crises.Canada, along with the other 12 Ottawa Group members, today endorsed the concrete steps contained in the Joint Statement of the Ottawa Group: Focusing Action on COVID19.  This statement establishes key actions for member countries to support an inclusive, sustainable and resilient global recovery for our people.These priorities include greater transparency on export restrictions, predictable and open trade in agriculture, and advancing negotiations on ecommerce.This work supports the movement of the goods and services people rely on and will ensure stability for our businesses, workers and people at this uncertain time. It also lays the groundwork for a potential new WTO initiative making it possible for medical supplies to flow more easily.Canada and the Ottawa Group remain committed to the broader WTO reform agenda, including efforts toward a longlasting solution for dispute settlement and conclusion of negotiations on harmful fisheries subsidies.Businesses are the backbone of our economy, and we will continue to listen to them and welcome their feedback as we work to strengthen the WTO and restart our global economies. Canada will ramp up outreach and engagement with businesses–including small businesses, women entrepreneurs and Indigenous business owners—so that everyone benefits from trade and the economic recovery."
233,Minister Champagne travels to New York ahead of vote for U.N. Security Council,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/06/minister-champagne-travels-to-new-york-ahead-of-vote-for-un-security-council.html,6/12/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, will travel on an official mission to New York on June 13 ahead of the vote on Canada’s bid for a seat on the United Nations Security Council.In New York, Minister Champagne and MarcAndré Blanchard, Canada’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the U.N., will engage with various ambassadors and permanent representatives to promote Canada’s commitment to peace and security, climate change, gender equality, economic security and multilateralism. The Minister will also be present in New York on the day of the vote, June 17.The Minister will follow all applicable health and safety protocols, including public health advice and measures and will quarantine for 14 days upon his return to Canada."
234,Canada joins International Coalition for the Sahel,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/06/canada-joins-international-coalition-for-the-sahel.html,6/12/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of National Defence, today announced that Canada will join the International Coalition for the Sahel. Minister Champagne will participate in the coalition’s Small Group of Foreign Ministers.During virtual meetings with their respective counterparts, Minister Champagne and Minister Sajjan reiterated Canada’s commitment to support the countries in the Sahel in advancing their priorities for peace and security, economic and social development, inclusive governance, gender equality and climate change.The ministers also highlighted Canada’s commitment to international assistance in the Sahel, and underlined Canada’s engagement in contributing to international efforts to stabilize the region, by participating in operations, exercises, and capacitybuilding initiatives."
235,Canada to host virtual Ottawa Group meeting on World Trade Organization reform and COVID-19,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/06/canada-to-host-virtual-ottawa-group-meeting-on-world-trade-organization-reform-and-covid-19.html,6/11/20,2020, news releases," Today, the Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, announced that Canada will host the Fifth Ministerial Meeting of the Ottawa Group on World Trade Organization Reform on June 15, 2020.As the world faces the unprecedented challenge of COVID19, countries are working together to find ways to keep people safe while supporting businesses, workers, and their families.The virtual meeting of the Ottawa Group will build on the progress made by Canada and likeminded countries over the past few months, ensuring trade stays open and predictable to give people stability at this uncertain time.Ministers from the 13 Ottawa Group countries will discuss how the WTO and the rulesbased trading system can help mitigate the impacts of COVID19, lay the groundwork for a sustainable recovery, and adapt trade rules to prepare for future crises.The ministers will discuss key priorities, including greater transparency around export restrictions, ways to ensure the smooth flow of goods and services to benefit their countries’ people, and helping businesses and workers adapt to an increasingly digital economy.The Ottawa Group will continue to engage small businesses as it develops concrete plans to address the global economic recovery and ongoing WTO reform efforts."
236,Canada reaffirms ongoing support for Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/06/canada-reaffirms-ongoing-support-for-treaty-on-the-non-proliferation-of-nuclear-weapons.html,6/9/20,2020, news releases," On behalf of the Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Rob Oliphant, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister, today reaffirmed Canada’s commitment to nuclear nonproliferation and disarmament during a virtual meeting of foreign ministers of the Stockholm Initiative for Nuclear Disarmament.Hosted by Germany and Sweden, participants at today’s meeting advocated for pragmatic measures that would advance nuclear disarmament under the NonProliferation of Nuclear Weapons Treaty (NPT). Canada will continue to promote concrete efforts, such as empowerment of youth advocates and more meaningful engagement of women in disarmament decisionmaking, to help achieve a world free of nuclear weapons."
237,Readout: Minister of Foreign Affairs continues to coordinate with international counterparts on COVID-19,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/06/readout-minister-of-foreign-affairs-continues-to-coordinate-with-international-counterparts-on-covid-19.html,6/9/20,2020, news releases," Today, the Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, hosted the ninth call of the Ministerial Coordination Group on COVID19 with his counterparts from Australia, Indonesia, Morocco, Peru, Republic of Korea and Singapore.The ministers recalled the continued importance of exchanging information and coordinating efforts in the face of the COVID19 pandemic.  They stressed that the ongoing pandemic requires a largescale, coordinated and comprehensive multilateral response.The ministers also discussed the importance of collaboration around the distribution of an eventual vaccine.As the world enters the next phase of the response, the ministers discussed the need to take stock of the impacts of the crisis, the measures taken to date and the importance of advancing concrete solutions in order to respond to the significant human and economic costs of the COVID19 pandemic.Minister Champagne invited his colleagues from the Ministerial Coordination Group to meet in Canada when health conditions permit to discuss the postCOVID19 world and launch a muchneeded discussion on reforms to multilateral institutions and building a better, greener and more inclusive future."
238,Readout: Minister of Foreign Affairs continues to coordinate with international counterparts on COVID-19,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/06/readout-minister-of-foreign-affairs-continues-to-coordinate-with-international-counterparts-on-covid-19.html,6/9/20,2020, news releases," Today, the Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, hosted the eighth call with his counterparts from countries affected by COVID19, including Australia, Germany, Indonesia, Italy, Morocco, Peru, Singapore, South Africa, Turkey and the United Kingdom.The Ministers discussed the impacts of the COVID19 pandemic and agreed that a coordinated multilateral response continues to be essential as economies begin to reopen and plan for next steps.Facilitating crossborder movement of goods, services and people by maintaining supply chains open and connected while resisting protectionist trends remains critical. Such cooperation will ensure that those most in need receive access to vital medical treatment and supplies, including personal protective equipment.The Ministerial Group committed to remain in close contact to monitor the impact on countries and refugees in conflict zones, and on reopening and transitioning to a new normal, as the COVID19 situation continues to evolve."
239,Readout: Minister of Foreign Affairs continues to coordinate with international counterparts on COVID-19,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/06/readout-minister-of-foreign-affairs-continues-to-coordinate-with-international-counterparts-on-covid-19.html,6/9/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today organized a seventh call with his counterparts from countries affected by COVID19, including Australia, Brazil, France, Germany, Indonesia, Peru, Singapore, South Africa, Turkey and the United Kingdom.The ministers agreed that while the COVID19 pandemic has imposed new challenges on the multilateral system, they underscored the critical role of multilateralism and international institutions in securing the health, prosperity and security of states, including efforts toward finding a vaccine.Several ministers also reiterated that a strong and coordinated multilateral response is essential to combat this crisis and to address the critical needs and challenges of vulnerable countries and groups, particularly women and children.They committed to continue working together to strengthen the multilateral system."
240,Readout: Minister of Foreign Affairs continues to coordinate with international counterparts on COVID-19,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/06/readout-minister-of-foreign-affairs-continues-to-coordinate-with-international-counterparts-on-covid-19.html,6/9/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today organized a fifth call with his counterparts from countries affected by COVID19, including Australia, Brazil, France, Germany, Indonesia, Morocco, Peru, Singapore, South Africa, Turkey and the United Kingdom.During the call, the ministers provided an update on their country’s response to COVID19 and discussed their priority issues as the global pandemic evolves.They reiterated the importance of providing consular assistance to their citizens and the continued need to ensure transit hubs remain operational to permit the return of travellers from abroad.The ministers also stressed the critical need to ensure the crossborder flow of essential goods and to keep supply chains intact during this ongoing crisis, especially for medical supplies and personal protective equipment.Finally, they reiterated their continued commitment to work with the World Health Organization as well as to support the needs of vulnerable countries, and particularly those of women and children, during this crisis."
241,Readout: Minister of Foreign Affairs continues to coordinate with international counterparts on COVID-19,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/05/readout-minister-of-foreign-affairs-continues-to-coordinate-with-international-counterparts-on-covid-19.html,5/12/20,2020, news releases," Today, the Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, hosted the ninth call of the Ministerial Coordination Group on COVID19 with his counterparts from Australia, Indonesia, Morocco, Peru, Republic of Korea and Singapore.The ministers recalled the continued importance of exchanging information and coordinating efforts in the face of the COVID19 pandemic.  They stressed that the ongoing pandemic requires a largescale, coordinated and comprehensive multilateral response.The ministers also discussed the importance of collaboration around the distribution of an eventual vaccine.As the world enters the next phase of the response, the ministers discussed the need to take stock of the impacts of the crisis, the measures taken to date and the importance of advancing concrete solutions in order to respond to the significant human and economic costs of the COVID19 pandemic.Minister Champagne invited his colleagues from the Ministerial Coordination Group to meet in Canada when health conditions permit to discuss the postCOVID19 world and launch a muchneeded discussion on reforms to multilateral institutions and building a better, greener and more inclusive future."
242,Readout: Minister of Foreign Affairs continues to coordinate with international counterparts on COVID-19,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/05/readout-minister-of-foreign-affairs-continues-to-coordinate-with-international-counterparts-on-covid-19.html,5/12/20,2020, news releases," Today, the Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, hosted the eighth call with his counterparts from countries affected by COVID19, including Australia, Germany, Indonesia, Italy, Morocco, Peru, Singapore, South Africa, Turkey and the United Kingdom.The Ministers discussed the impacts of the COVID19 pandemic and agreed that a coordinated multilateral response continues to be essential as economies begin to reopen and plan for next steps.Facilitating crossborder movement of goods, services and people by maintaining supply chains open and connected while resisting protectionist trends remains critical. Such cooperation will ensure that those most in need receive access to vital medical treatment and supplies, including personal protective equipment.The Ministerial Group committed to remain in close contact to monitor the impact on countries and refugees in conflict zones, and on reopening and transitioning to a new normal, as the COVID19 situation continues to evolve."
243,Readout: Minister of Foreign Affairs continues to coordinate with international counterparts on COVID-19,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/05/readout-minister-of-foreign-affairs-continues-to-coordinate-with-international-counterparts-on-covid-19.html,5/12/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today organized a seventh call with his counterparts from countries affected by COVID19, including Australia, Brazil, France, Germany, Indonesia, Peru, Singapore, South Africa, Turkey and the United Kingdom.The ministers agreed that while the COVID19 pandemic has imposed new challenges on the multilateral system, they underscored the critical role of multilateralism and international institutions in securing the health, prosperity and security of states, including efforts toward finding a vaccine.Several ministers also reiterated that a strong and coordinated multilateral response is essential to combat this crisis and to address the critical needs and challenges of vulnerable countries and groups, particularly women and children.They committed to continue working together to strengthen the multilateral system."
244,Readout: Minister of Foreign Affairs continues to coordinate with international counterparts on COVID-19,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/05/readout-minister-of-foreign-affairs-continues-to-coordinate-with-international-counterparts-on-covid-19.html,5/12/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today organized a fifth call with his counterparts from countries affected by COVID19, including Australia, Brazil, France, Germany, Indonesia, Morocco, Peru, Singapore, South Africa, Turkey and the United Kingdom.During the call, the ministers provided an update on their country’s response to COVID19 and discussed their priority issues as the global pandemic evolves.They reiterated the importance of providing consular assistance to their citizens and the continued need to ensure transit hubs remain operational to permit the return of travellers from abroad.The ministers also stressed the critical need to ensure the crossborder flow of essential goods and to keep supply chains intact during this ongoing crisis, especially for medical supplies and personal protective equipment.Finally, they reiterated their continued commitment to work with the World Health Organization as well as to support the needs of vulnerable countries, and particularly those of women and children, during this crisis."
245,Readout: Minister of Foreign Affairs continues to coordinate with international counterparts on COVID-19,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/04/readout-minister-of-foreign-affairs-continues-to-coordinate-with-international-counterparts-on-covid-190.html,4/28/20,2020, statements," Today, the Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, hosted the ninth call of the Ministerial Coordination Group on COVID19 with his counterparts from Australia, Indonesia, Morocco, Peru, Republic of Korea and Singapore.The ministers recalled the continued importance of exchanging information and coordinating efforts in the face of the COVID19 pandemic.  They stressed that the ongoing pandemic requires a largescale, coordinated and comprehensive multilateral response.The ministers also discussed the importance of collaboration around the distribution of an eventual vaccine.As the world enters the next phase of the response, the ministers discussed the need to take stock of the impacts of the crisis, the measures taken to date and the importance of advancing concrete solutions in order to respond to the significant human and economic costs of the COVID19 pandemic.Minister Champagne invited his colleagues from the Ministerial Coordination Group to meet in Canada when health conditions permit to discuss the postCOVID19 world and launch a muchneeded discussion on reforms to multilateral institutions and building a better, greener and more inclusive future."
246,Readout: Minister of Foreign Affairs continues to coordinate with international counterparts on COVID-19,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/04/readout-minister-of-foreign-affairs-continues-to-coordinate-with-international-counterparts-on-covid-190.html,4/28/20,2020, statements," Today, the Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, hosted the eighth call with his counterparts from countries affected by COVID19, including Australia, Germany, Indonesia, Italy, Morocco, Peru, Singapore, South Africa, Turkey and the United Kingdom.The Ministers discussed the impacts of the COVID19 pandemic and agreed that a coordinated multilateral response continues to be essential as economies begin to reopen and plan for next steps.Facilitating crossborder movement of goods, services and people by maintaining supply chains open and connected while resisting protectionist trends remains critical. Such cooperation will ensure that those most in need receive access to vital medical treatment and supplies, including personal protective equipment.The Ministerial Group committed to remain in close contact to monitor the impact on countries and refugees in conflict zones, and on reopening and transitioning to a new normal, as the COVID19 situation continues to evolve."
247,Readout: Minister of Foreign Affairs continues to coordinate with international counterparts on COVID-19,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/04/readout-minister-of-foreign-affairs-continues-to-coordinate-with-international-counterparts-on-covid-190.html,4/28/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today organized a seventh call with his counterparts from countries affected by COVID19, including Australia, Brazil, France, Germany, Indonesia, Peru, Singapore, South Africa, Turkey and the United Kingdom.The ministers agreed that while the COVID19 pandemic has imposed new challenges on the multilateral system, they underscored the critical role of multilateralism and international institutions in securing the health, prosperity and security of states, including efforts toward finding a vaccine.Several ministers also reiterated that a strong and coordinated multilateral response is essential to combat this crisis and to address the critical needs and challenges of vulnerable countries and groups, particularly women and children.They committed to continue working together to strengthen the multilateral system."
248,Readout: Minister of Foreign Affairs continues to coordinate with international counterparts on COVID-19,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/04/readout-minister-of-foreign-affairs-continues-to-coordinate-with-international-counterparts-on-covid-190.html,4/28/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today organized a fifth call with his counterparts from countries affected by COVID19, including Australia, Brazil, France, Germany, Indonesia, Morocco, Peru, Singapore, South Africa, Turkey and the United Kingdom.During the call, the ministers provided an update on their country’s response to COVID19 and discussed their priority issues as the global pandemic evolves.They reiterated the importance of providing consular assistance to their citizens and the continued need to ensure transit hubs remain operational to permit the return of travellers from abroad.The ministers also stressed the critical need to ensure the crossborder flow of essential goods and to keep supply chains intact during this ongoing crisis, especially for medical supplies and personal protective equipment.Finally, they reiterated their continued commitment to work with the World Health Organization as well as to support the needs of vulnerable countries, and particularly those of women and children, during this crisis."
249,Readout: Minister of Foreign Affairs continues to coordinate with international counterparts on COVID-19,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/04/readout-minister-of-foreign-affairs-continues-to-coordinate-with-international-counterparts-on-covid-19.html,4/7/20,2020, news releases," Today, the Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, hosted the ninth call of the Ministerial Coordination Group on COVID19 with his counterparts from Australia, Indonesia, Morocco, Peru, Republic of Korea and Singapore.The ministers recalled the continued importance of exchanging information and coordinating efforts in the face of the COVID19 pandemic.  They stressed that the ongoing pandemic requires a largescale, coordinated and comprehensive multilateral response.The ministers also discussed the importance of collaboration around the distribution of an eventual vaccine.As the world enters the next phase of the response, the ministers discussed the need to take stock of the impacts of the crisis, the measures taken to date and the importance of advancing concrete solutions in order to respond to the significant human and economic costs of the COVID19 pandemic.Minister Champagne invited his colleagues from the Ministerial Coordination Group to meet in Canada when health conditions permit to discuss the postCOVID19 world and launch a muchneeded discussion on reforms to multilateral institutions and building a better, greener and more inclusive future."
250,Readout: Minister of Foreign Affairs continues to coordinate with international counterparts on COVID-19,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/04/readout-minister-of-foreign-affairs-continues-to-coordinate-with-international-counterparts-on-covid-19.html,4/7/20,2020, news releases," Today, the Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, hosted the eighth call with his counterparts from countries affected by COVID19, including Australia, Germany, Indonesia, Italy, Morocco, Peru, Singapore, South Africa, Turkey and the United Kingdom.The Ministers discussed the impacts of the COVID19 pandemic and agreed that a coordinated multilateral response continues to be essential as economies begin to reopen and plan for next steps.Facilitating crossborder movement of goods, services and people by maintaining supply chains open and connected while resisting protectionist trends remains critical. Such cooperation will ensure that those most in need receive access to vital medical treatment and supplies, including personal protective equipment.The Ministerial Group committed to remain in close contact to monitor the impact on countries and refugees in conflict zones, and on reopening and transitioning to a new normal, as the COVID19 situation continues to evolve."
251,Readout: Minister of Foreign Affairs continues to coordinate with international counterparts on COVID-19,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/04/readout-minister-of-foreign-affairs-continues-to-coordinate-with-international-counterparts-on-covid-19.html,4/7/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today organized a seventh call with his counterparts from countries affected by COVID19, including Australia, Brazil, France, Germany, Indonesia, Peru, Singapore, South Africa, Turkey and the United Kingdom.The ministers agreed that while the COVID19 pandemic has imposed new challenges on the multilateral system, they underscored the critical role of multilateralism and international institutions in securing the health, prosperity and security of states, including efforts toward finding a vaccine.Several ministers also reiterated that a strong and coordinated multilateral response is essential to combat this crisis and to address the critical needs and challenges of vulnerable countries and groups, particularly women and children.They committed to continue working together to strengthen the multilateral system."
252,Readout: Minister of Foreign Affairs continues to coordinate with international counterparts on COVID-19,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/04/readout-minister-of-foreign-affairs-continues-to-coordinate-with-international-counterparts-on-covid-19.html,4/7/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today organized a fifth call with his counterparts from countries affected by COVID19, including Australia, Brazil, France, Germany, Indonesia, Morocco, Peru, Singapore, South Africa, Turkey and the United Kingdom.During the call, the ministers provided an update on their country’s response to COVID19 and discussed their priority issues as the global pandemic evolves.They reiterated the importance of providing consular assistance to their citizens and the continued need to ensure transit hubs remain operational to permit the return of travellers from abroad.The ministers also stressed the critical need to ensure the crossborder flow of essential goods and to keep supply chains intact during this ongoing crisis, especially for medical supplies and personal protective equipment.Finally, they reiterated their continued commitment to work with the World Health Organization as well as to support the needs of vulnerable countries, and particularly those of women and children, during this crisis."
253,Joint Communique by Ministers of the Global Coalition to defeat Daesh/ISIS small group,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/06/joint-communique-by-ministers-of-the-global-coalition-to-defeat-daeshisis-small-group.html,6/4/20,2020, backgrounders,"19 crisis has had an impact on the Coalition’s activities and operations, the Ministers committed to continue working with our partner forces to mitigate the impacts of the pandemic while supporting efforts to further dismantle Daesh/ISIS.In Syria, the Coalition stands with the Syrian people in support of a lasting political settlement in accordance with UN Security Council Resolution 2254. The Coalition must continue to be vigilant against the threat of terrorism, in all its forms and manifestations, to build on the success it has achieved and continue to act together against any threats to this outcome to avoid security vacuums that Daesh/ISIS may exploit.The Ministers also noted with concern the emerging threat posed by Daesh/ISIS affiliates and branches worldwide, in particular in West Africa and the Sahel. The Coalition reaffirmed its plans for a meeting focused on capacity building in West Africa and the Sahel that would fully respect international law, be upon the request and prior consent of the countries concerned, and be coordinated with existing efforts and initiatives, including the Coalition for the Sahel.The Ministers agreed on the urgent need to pursue information sharing on known members of Daesh/ISIS affiliates, including via multilateral law enforcement channels like INTERPOL, and particularly for border security purposes and increasing strategic communications.The Ministers, recognizing the challenge posed by foreign terrorist fighters who are in custody as well as family members who remain in Syria and Iraq, commit to pursue existing effective accountability mechanisms in close coordination with the countries of origin, including accountability for fighters who have used sexual violence as an instrument of terror.The Ministers remain committed to promoting efforts to ensure that accused terrorists, including those of foreign nationality, are treated appropriately and tried consistent with their international law obligations, including fair trial guarantees, and we urge the custodians of the detained Daesh/ISIS fighters to continue to treat them humanely at all times, in accordance with international law. The Ministers further recognized that the situation for Daesh/ISIS detainees and family members in northeast Syria is of grave concern and recognized the importance of finding a comprehensive approach to this serious problem.The Coalition reaffirmed its belief that this comprehensive effort is necessary to achieve a full and enduring defeat of Daesh/ISIS worldwide. The Global Coalition to Defeat Daesh/ISIS has proven that it is a cohesive, adaptable vehicle that has sustained this important endeavor through stabilization, political, military and law enforcement lines of effort. The Ministers also confirmed their intent to hold the next full ministerial meeting of the Global Coalition in Italy as soon as circumstances permit."
254,Minister Champagne reaffirms Canada’s commitment to the Global Coalition against Daesh ,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/06/minister-champagne-reaffirms-canadas-commitment-to-the-global-coalition-against-daesh.html,6/4/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today reiterated Canada’s commitment to the Global Coalition against Daesh, during a virtual meeting with foreign ministers of the Coalition.  The Minister outlined Canada’s contributions to the Coalition across all five lines of the Coalition’s efforts to defeat Daesh in Iraq and Syria including preventing the flow of foreign terrorist fighters across borders and tackling Daesh’s financing and economic infrastructure.Minister Champagne also took the opportunity to welcome the confirmation of Iraqi Prime Minister, Mustafa alKadhimi, and pledged Canada’s commitment to working with the new Iraqi government.Canada provides humanitarian assistance to the people most impacted by the conflicts in Iraq and Syria, including refugees who have fled to neighbouring countries such as Jordan and Lebanon."
255,"Readout: Minister Ng speaks with Japan’s State Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry",https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/06/readout-minister-ng-speaks-with-japans-state-minister-of-economy-trade-and-industry.html,6/4/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, spoke yesterday with Hideki Makihara, Japan’s State Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry.Minister Ng thanked Minister Makihara for his country’s support in helping Canadians who were aboard the Diamond Princess cruise ship in Yokohama, Japan, return home.The ministers also discussed their common priorities for the upcoming virtual meeting of the Ottawa Group on World Trade Organization (WTO) Reform. These priorities include greater transparency regarding export restrictions taken by a number of countries, and ways to ensure the smooth flow of trade for the benefit of our citizens as countries begin to gradually reopen their economies.The ministers also agreed on the importance of helping businesses and workers adapt to the new digital economy, and advancing ecommerce negotiations at the WTO to establish clear rules for online trade. This will support Canadian and Japanese companies who are increasingly shifting their operations online to maintain and grow their business amid the pandemic.Throughout their conversation, the ministers reaffirmed the strong commercial relationship between Canada and Japan. Minister Ng highlighted the opportunities for building on this relationship to ensure everyone can benefit from trade agreements, including small businesses, women entrepreneurs, and Indigenous business owners."
256,"Readout: Minister Champagne speaks to counterparts from Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and the United States",https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/06/readout-minister-champagne-speaks-to-counterparts-from-australia-new-zealand-the-united-kingdom-and-the-united-states.html,6/1/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today spoke with his counterparts from Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and the United States.The ministers discussed the impacts of COVID19, including the response of the World Health Organization and its plans to conduct an independent review of the global response to the pandemic.The ministers agreed that a shared priority would be to ensure the stability of supply chains, as well as the procurement of personal protective equipment and medical supplies.They also spoke about issues of shared concern, including the situation in Hong Kong.Minister Champagne and his counterparts agreed to continue communicating and reiterated their commitment to the global response to COVID19."
257,Backgrounder: How Canada is supporting UN peacekeepers,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/05/backgrounder-how-canada-is-supporting-un-peacekeepers.html,5/29/20,2020, backgrounders,"based support for gender advisers, with an additional:$972,000 investment, for a total of $2 million, for a senior gender adviser from UN Women to work with the Executive Office of the UN SecretaryGeneral in integrating gender equality approaches into UN planning, analysis and policy processes at the highest levels$2.1million investments, for a total of $3.5 million, to strengthen the gender adviser’s capacity and better engage women and girls in peace and stabilization operations in the United Nations multidimensional integrated stabilization missions in Mali and the Central African RepublicSince it was launched in November 2017, the Elsie Initiative for Women in Peace Operations has:established bilateral partnerships with the Ghana Armed Forces and Zambia Police Servicesupported the implementation of the gender integration strategy of the Senegal Armed Forceslaunched the Elsie Initiative Fund for uniformed women in peace operations in collaboration with the UNfunded research to identify and address barriers to women’s meaningful contributions to peace operationsled significant advocacy efforts around the world to raise awareness of the role women play in UN peace operations"
258,Statement to mark International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/05/statement-to-mark-international-day-of-united-nations-peacekeepers.html,5/29/20,2020, statements," Ottawa, Ontario – The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs; the Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of National Defence; and the Honourable Bill Blair, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, today issued the following statement:“On International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers, Canadians from coast to coast to coast recognize the important work of the women and men who serve in UN peacekeeping missions around the globe, putting themselves at risk to help the most vulnerable who are threatened by conflict and violence.“Since the COVID19 pandemic began, these brave members who serve have been working tirelessly to support the health of people around the world, saving lives and stabilizing complicated situations under very difficult circumstances.“This year, we join the United Nations and countries worldwide to highlight the important role that women play in peacekeeping. Raising the number of women in peacekeeping means communities engage with a more diverse and representative range of peacekeepers. Women bring a unique and muchneeded perspective to operations, increasing the effectiveness of these missions. Increasing women peacekeepers’ meaningful participation is both the right and smart thing to do. That is why Canada launched the Elsie Initiative for Women in Peace Operations in 2017.”Quick factsThe first Canadian peacekeepers were deployed to the Middle East in 1948.This year marks the 20th anniversary of the UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on women, peace and security, which was cosponsored by Canada. The Resolution recognized the importance of including women in all aspects of peace and security.Canada was the largest voluntary financial contributor to the UN Department of Peace Operations in 2019.Related productsBackgrounder: How Canada is supporting UN PeacekeepersAssociated linksPeace and Stabilization Operations ProgramVancouver Principles on Peacekeeping and the Prevention of the Recruitment and Use of Child SoldiersElsie Initiative for Women in Peace OperationsRCMP Peace Operations"
259,"Readout: Minister Ng speaks with Australia’s Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment",https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/05/readout-minister-ng-speaks-with-australias-minister-for-trade-tourism-and-investment.html,5/29/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, spoke yesterday with Simon Birmingham, Australia’s Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment, about the need for continued global cooperation to keep our people healthy and safe while mitigating the economic impact of COVID19.Minister Ng noted Canadians’ efforts to help flatten the COVID19 curve here at home, and she welcomed the news of Australia’s progress in keeping their people safe and healthy amid the pandemic.The ministers agreed to continue working closely together on keeping global supply chains open to the benefit of our businesses and workers, including through the G20, World Trade Organization and AsiaPacific Economic Cooperation.As well, the ministers reaffirmed the strength of Canada and Australia’s bilateral commercial relationship. They highlighted the importance of open trade and diversification, and how this relationship is enhanced through the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for TransPacific Partnership, giving our businesses and workers more opportunities in the global marketplace.The ministers also discussed the upcoming Ottawa Group WTO reform ministerial meeting as an opportunity to advance an ambitious work plan on COVID19 response and lay the foundations for global economic recovery. Minister Ng highlighted the importance of engaging Canada’s and Australia’s respective business communities to ensure this work helps them with the smooth resumption and flow of crossborder trade in the weeks and months to come."
260,COVID-19 and hurricane season: Advice for Canadians abroad,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/05/covid-19-and-hurricane-season-advice-for-canadians-abroad.html,5/28/20,2020, news releases," Hurricane season has now started and will last until the end of November. Global Affairs Canada takes this opportunity to remind Canadians that the official advisory to avoid nonessential travel outside Canada is still in effect.While a large number of Canadians who were travelling outside Canada have now returned home due to the COVID19 pandemic, some may have to remain abroad. Canadians abroad should be mindful of severe weather conditions, including hurricanes, typhoons, cyclones and monsoons, that could have a serious impact on their safety.If you are currently abroad, or if you must travel despite the advisory, it is important to check our Travel Advice and Advisories to know if the region where you are located is prone to hurricanes. The most threatened areas are the Caribbean, Mexico, Central America and the east and Gulf coasts of the United States.If you have to remain in a hurricaneprone destination during hurricane season, the following advice could be especially helpful:Stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts.Follow local emergency preparedness recommendations and instructions.Sign up with our Registration of Canadians Abroad service to receive important updates.Read our advice for Canadians abroad at Travel and COVID19: Your safety and security outside Canada.Talk to your travel insurance provider about your insurance policy. Find out if you are covered for medical treatment if you become infected with COVID19 and for extended stays outside Canada.Carry emergency contact information of the nearest Government of Canada office and of our Emergency Watch and Response Centre, open 24/7.Keep in close contact with your family so they are aware of your situation.Stay up to date on developing situations through our Travel Smart app and our Twitter and Facebook channels.Global Affairs Canada continues to provide 24/7 consular support to Canadians abroad through its offices abroad and the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa. Canadians who need consular assistance can contact the nearest Government of Canada office or the Emergency Watch and Response Centre by calling +1 613 996 8885 (call collect where available)."
261,"Joint statement by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Canada, François-Philippe Champagne, UK Foreign Secretary, Dominic Raab, Australian Foreign Minister, Marise Payne, and US Secretary of State, Michael Pompeo responding to China’s proposed new security law for Hong Kong",https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/05/joint-statement-on-hong-kong--canada-us-uk-and-australia.html,5/28/20,2020, statements," “Signatories to this statement reiterate our deep concern regarding Beijing’s decision to impose a national security law in Hong Kong.“Hong Kong has flourished as a bastion of freedom. The international community has a significant and longstanding stake in Hong Kong’s prosperity and stability. Direct imposition of national security legislation on Hong Kong by the Beijing authorities, rather than through Hong Kong’s own institutions as provided for under Article 23 of the Basic Law, would curtail the Hong Kong people’s liberties, and in doing so, dramatically erode the autonomy and the system that made it so prosperous.“China’s decision to impose the new national security law on Hong Kong lies in direct conflict with its international obligations under the principles of the legallybinding, UNregistered SinoBritish Joint Declaration. The proposed law would undermine the One Country, Two Systems framework. It also raises the prospect of prosecution in Hong Kong for political crimes, and undermines existing commitments to protect the rights of Hong Kong people  including those set out in the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights.“We are also extremely concerned that this action will exacerbate the existing deep divisions in Hong Kong society; the law does nothing to build mutual understanding and foster reconciliation within Hong Kong. Rebuilding trust across Hong Kong society by allowing the people of Hong Kong to enjoy the rights and freedoms they were promised can be the only way back from the tensions and unrest that the territory has seen over the last year.“The world’s focus on a global pandemic requires enhanced trust in governments and international cooperation. Beijing's unprecedented move risks having the opposite effect. As Hong Kong’s stability and prosperity are jeopardized by the new imposition, we call on the Government of China to work with the Hong Kong SAR Government and the people of Hong Kong to find a mutually acceptable accommodation that will honor China’s international obligations under the UNfiled SinoBritish Joint Declaration."""
262,APEC Business Advisory Council biographical note,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/05/apec-business-advisory-council-biographical-note.html,5/27/20,2020, backgrounders,"Janet De Silva is an experienced international business executive with a track record of excelling in ontheground leadership roles. As President and Chief Executive Officer of the Toronto Region Board of Trade, Ms. De Silva is spearheading efforts to make Toronto one of the most competitive and soughtafter business regions in the world.Prior to joining the Board, Ms. De Silva spent 14 years in leadership roles in Asia. She served as Chief Executive Officer of Sun Life Financial’s Hong Kong subsidiary and Mainland China joint venture. She cofounded and was Chief Executive Officer of Retail China Limited, which was acquired in 2010. She later served as Dean of Ivey Asia, leading the Hong Kong campus and Asia operations of Ivey Business School of Western University.Highly respected for her business advocacy and government engagement efforts, Ms. De Silva has served as Council Member on the Asia Business Leaders Advisory Council (ABLAC) since 2018. She also currently sits on the boards of Intact Financial Corporation, Blue Umbrella Limited and the Greater Toronto CivicAction Alliance.Ms. De Silva has been named one of ‘Canada’s Top 100 Most Powerful Women, a Woman of our Time’ by Hong Kong’s South China Morning Post and made the Canadian Board Diversity Council’s inaugural ‘Diversity 50’ list."
263,Minister Ng announces Canadian representative to APEC Business Advisory Council,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/05/minister-ng-announces-canadian-representative-to-apec-business-advisory-council.html,5/27/20,2020, news releases," Now more than ever, businesses, workers, and all Canadians depend on the predictability of open and rulesbased trade.The AsiaPacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) strives for free and open trade to bolster prosperity for the region and beyond. As a founding member of APEC, Canada supports this goal and is working to strengthen our trade relationships with the dynamic and fastgrowing economies in the AsiaPacific region.The APEC Business Advisory Council (ABAC) provides an important bridge between Canadian business leaders and their counterparts in the AsiaPacific region to help them explore new opportunities to work together. It also advises the government on how to best support Canadian businesses – including in these challenging times.Today, the Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade announced the official appointment of Janet De Silva, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Toronto Region Board of Trade, to the APEC Business Advisory Council (ABAC), who has been serving since the fall.For over 30 years, Ms. De Silva has helped businesses grow in the global marketplace. She will play a key role in representing and advancing the interests of the Canadian business community throughout the AsiaPacific region."
264,Statement on the Supreme Court of British Columbia decision on double criminality in extradition process for Meng Wanzhou,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/05/statement-on-the-supreme-court-of-british-columbia-decision-on-double-criminality-in-extradition-process-for-meng-wanzhou.html,5/27/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement:“The Canadian judiciary operates independently, and today’s decision on double criminality in Meng Wanzhou’s extradition process was an independent decision of the Supreme Court of British Columbia.“This decision is but one component in a multistep legal process. The Government of Canada will continue to be transparent about the extradition process for Ms. Meng.“We will continue to pursue principled engagement with China to address our bilateral differences and to cooperate in areas of mutual interest.“The Government of Canada’s top priority is and remains securing the release of Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor, who have been arbitrarily detained for over 500 days. We will continue to advocate for their immediate release and seek clemency for Canadians facing the death penalty in China, including Robert Schellenberg.”"
265,Statement in celebration of Africa Day,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/05/statement-in-celebration-of-africa-day.html,5/25/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs; the Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade; and the Honourable Karina Gould, Minister of International Development, today issued the following statement:“Today, Canada joins the African Union in celebrating Africa Day, and takes this opportunity to reiterate our commitment to further deepening our relationships with the diverse and dynamic nations of Africa.“Africa is home to some of the fastestgrowing economies in the world. With shared priorities including investing in sustainable economies that benefit everyone, Canada sees the diverse nations in Africa as important trading partners, and we are keen to strengthen these connections.“Canada also continues to work together with our African partners on efforts such as Silencing the Guns, a campaign against war and conflict; supporting women’s empowerment in peace and security; building resilience against climate change; and mitigating the consequences of the current pandemic on vulnerable people, especially women and girls.“Now more than ever, the African Union’s vision of a prosperous and peaceful Africa reminds us that by working together, we will overcome the extraordinary challenges that we currently face.“We look forward to building on our strong relationships with African nations to create prosperity for both Canadians and Africans alike.“On this 57th anniversary of the creation of the Organization of African Unity, succeeded by the African Union, we wish a very happy Africa Day to all.”"
266,"Joint Statement by Canada, Australia and United Kingdom on Hong Kong national security legislation",https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/05/joint-statement-by-canada-australia-and-united-kingdom-on-hong-kong-national-security-legislation.html,5/22/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs; Dominic Raab, the United Kingdom’s First Secretary of State and Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs; and Marise Payne, Australia’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Women, today issued the following statement:“We are deeply concerned at proposals for introducing legislation related to national security in Hong Kong.“The legally binding Joint Declaration, signed by China and the United Kingdom, sets out that Hong Kong will have a high degree of autonomy. It also provides that rights and freedoms, including those of the person, of the press, of assembly, of association and others, will be ensured by law in Hong Kong, and that the provisions of the two UN covenants on human rights, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, shall remain in force.“Making such a law on Hong Kong’s behalf without the direct participation of its people, legislature or judiciary would clearly undermine the ‘one country, two systems’ principle under which Hong Kong is guaranteed a high degree of autonomy.”"
267,Readout: Ministers Champagne and Johnson Smith co-preside a second meeting with UN Member States on addressing the COVID-19 financing challenge,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/05/readout-ministers-champagne-and-johnson-smith-co-preside-a-second-meeting-with-un-member-states-on-addressing-the-covid-19-financing-challenge.html,5/19/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Canada, and Senator the Honourable Kamina Johnson Smith, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade of Jamaica, today copresided via video conference a second extraordinary meeting of the United Nations Group of Friends of Sustainable Development Goals Financing.This meeting, which reconvened Ambassadors from across the membership of the United Nations, featured presentations on the climate finance and COVID19 challenges from Mark Carney, the UN SecretaryGeneral’s Special Envoy for Climate Action and Finance and Mahmoud Mohieldin, the UN SecretaryGeneral’s Special Envoy on Financing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.The group discussed additional actions to respond rapidly to the global economic crisis facing developing countries and support their efforts to build back better for more resilient societies. They also took note of the work being conducted by the UN to improve developing countries’ access to financing to support their SDGs and climate action objectives.The Foreign Ministers committed to continue working together to strengthen the multilateral system and to meet again as required to review progress on the COVID19 financing challenge."
268,Statement by Minister of Foreign Affairs on anniversary of deportation of Crimean Tatars,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/05/statement-by-minister-of-foreign-affairs-on-anniversary-of-deportation-of-crimean-tatars.html,5/18/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement:“This year marks the 76th anniversary of the forced deportation of Crimean Tatars by Soviet authorities in 1944.“Canada does not forget this tragedy and the suffering endured by the hundreds of thousands of children, women and men forcibly deported from their ancestral homeland.“Canada stands with the Crimean Tatar people in honouring the memory of those killed and all who suffered. “Canada continues to be concerned by the ongoing human rights violations committed against Crimean Tatars in the Crimean Peninsula under Russian occupation, including the banning of the Mejlis – the selfgoverning body of the Crimean Tatars. We call on Russia to reverse this decision. “Canada will always stand up for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.”"
269,Canada provides funding to annual humanitarian appeals,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/05/canada-provides-funding-to-annual-humanitarian-appeals.html,5/18/20,2020, backgrounders,"The Government of Canada announced $306 million in funding to respond to annual humanitarian appeals through United Nations humanitarian agencies, nongovernmental organizations and the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. The funding is being distributed as follows.$177.5 million to United Nations humanitarian agenciesInternational Organization for MigrationOffice for the Coordination of Humanitarian AffairsPan American Health OrganizationUNICEFUnited Nations High Commissioner for RefugeesUnited Nations Population FundWorld Food ProgrammeWorld Health Organization$75 million to nongovernmental organizationsAction Against Hunger CanadaACTEDAdventist Development and Relief Agency CanadaAlliance for International Medical ActionBRACCanadian Lutheran World ReliefCARE CanadaConcern WorldwideDanish Refugee CouncilDevelopment and PeaceDoctors of the WorldDoctors Without BordersHumanity & Inclusion CanadaHOPE International Development AgencyInternational Medical CorpsInternational NGO Safety OrganisationInternational Rescue CommitteeMission InclusionPeople in NeedPlan International CanadaSave the Children CanadaWorld Vision Canada$53.5 million to the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement"
270,Canada responds to humanitarian crises with funding to the world’s most vulnerable,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/05/canada-responds-to-humanitarian-crises-with-funding-to-the-worlds-most-vulnerable.html,5/18/20,2020, news releases," In the face of rising humanitarian needs, now in the context of a global COVID19 pandemic, it is more important than ever for Canada to continue supporting its partners in carrying out their lifesaving work around the world to help those in communities affected by conflict and suffering from acute food insecurity.The Honourable Karina Gould, Minister of International Development, today announced that Canada is providing $306 million in response to the annual humanitarian appeals issued by UN humanitarian agencies, the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement and nongovernmental organizations, including Canadian organizations, to support their 2020 operations around the world.Canada’s support will help address the needs of millions of vulnerable people by providing food assistance; lifesaving health care, including sexual and reproductive health and sexual and genderbased violence services; safe drinking water; sanitation and hygiene facilities; and shelter and protection services.Canada’s humanitarian assistance is in line with its Feminist International Assistance Policy, which addresses the specific needs and priorities of people in vulnerable situations, particularly women and girls."
271,"Statement on International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia",https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/05/statement-on-international-day-against-homophobia-transphobia-and-biphobia.html,5/17/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, and the Honourable Karina Gould, Minister of International Development, today issued the following statement: “On this International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia, Canada stands with members of the LGBTQ2 communities, at home and abroad, to reaffirm their fundamental right to be treated equally, and with dignity and respect. No one should be subjected to discrimination or violence based on sexual orientation, or gender identity or expression.“In addition to our work at home to advance LGBTQ2 rights, Canada continues to be a global leader in defending these rights by making them a central pillar of its foreign policy and through multilateral organizations, such as the Equal Rights Coalition – the first intergovernmental coalition promoting LGBTQ2 rights, globally.“Canada also seeks inclusive and genderresponsive provisions in its free trade agreements so that they benefit all Canadians, including LGBTQ2 people. For the first time in a trade agreement, the labour chapter of the CanadaUnited StatesMexico Agreement includes a provision clarifying that the enforceable obligation related to discrimination in the workplace includes discrimination on the basis of gender, gender identity and sexual orientation.“Canada also promotes the advancement of human rights and the improvement of socioeconomic outcomes for LGBTQ2 people around the world. In line with Canada’s firstever Feminist International Assistance Policy, our efforts are based on the specific and real life experiences and needs of local LGBTQ2 communities.“The COVID19 pandemic has had a disproportionate effect on LGBTQ2 people, and we must ensure that such vulnerable and marginalized communities are not attacked and discriminated against under the cover of public health. We condemn the hate speech directed towards them in the context of the COVID19 pandemic.“Today, and every day, we must stand up strongly for the rights of LGBTQ2 people in Canada and around the world, and speak out against intolerance and discrimination wherever it may occur.”Related productsERC statement on COVID19 and the human rights of LGBTI personsThe human rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, 2spirit and intersex personsThe UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human RightsThe UN LGBTI Core Group"
272,Backgrounder - How Canada is supporting peace,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/05/backgrounder---how-canada-is-supporting-peace.html,5/16/20,2020, backgrounders,"Canada continues to lead and invest in peace, stability and conflictprevention efforts because local peace is fundamental to global peace.For example, because of Canada’s support, in 2018 to 2019:White Helmet volunteers provided emergency rescue and medical assistance to civilians in Syriademining teams in Iraq removed explosives from an area the size of 200 football fields168 organizations increased the participation of women in peace negotiations and conflict preventionThis year, investments through the Peace and Stabilization Operations Program include:$9.87 million to the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue to support the prevention, mitigation and resolution of armed conflict through dialogue$4.7 million to the International Crisis Group to accelerate conflict prevention through early warning$2.77 million to Interpeace to support a more inclusive peace process in Mali$2 million to the United Nations Development Programme to provide essential services to conflictaffected populations and to increase support for negotiated agreements$2 million to the United Nations Development Programme to support the joint program for peace in Sri LankaCanada is also a leader in the implementation of the global Women, Peace and Security agenda. Canada’s interventions promote gender equality to ensure inclusive access to justice, social services, economic opportunity, political power and good governance—a key step in delivering opportunities for women so they can achieve their full potential for a better world."
273,Statement on International Day of Living Together in Peace,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/05/statement-on-international-day-of-living-together-in-peace.html,5/16/20,2020, statements," Global Affairs Canada today issued the following statement:“On this day, Canadians join with people around the globe to celebrate our differences and our diversity, confident in the knowledge that these strengths are key to living together in peace—within our communities, our countries and our world. “Peace and stability endure when solutions are inclusive and when we work together to reach a consensus and support international peace efforts. Together, we can build a world with fewer conflicts and less violence, one realized through solidarity, tolerance and reconciliation.“Canada values peace and continues to invest in conflict prevention, stabilization and peacebuilding initiatives through key programs such as the Peace and Stabilization Operations Program. As chair of the UN Peacebuilding Commission, Canada is also working with international partners to address the inequalities that often fuel conflicts.“During these turbulent times, Canada is focused on meeting the needs of people living in fragile and conflictaffected states, reiterating the UN SecretaryGeneral’s call for a global ceasefire. We also support the efforts of local peacebuilders to reduce tensions, build trust and strengthen social cohesion, which are critical for peacebuilding.“In everything we do, Canada upholds an explicitly feminist approach to peace and stability, as women are powerful agents of change and have the right to participate fully in peace and security efforts.“Canada hopes to serve as a nonpermanent member of the UN Security Council in 2021 to 2022. Our candidacy is focused on five pillars, including economic security at the centre of our platform. Without inclusive and equitable economies, peace will continue to be elusive. To succeed in fulfilling its role, the Security Council needs to take economic considerations into account across its agenda. This is perhaps even more applicable in a postpandemic world, where financial constraints are more pronounced, food security is at risk and supply chains need protection. Canada’s long tradition of effective action in these areas positions us well to deliver results.”Associated linksBackgrounder  How Canada is supporting peacePeace and Stabilization Operations ProgramWomen, peace and security"
274,Statement on safeguarding peace during the COVID-19 pandemic,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/05/statement-on-safeguarding-peace-during-the-covid-19-pandemic.html,5/15/20,2020, statements," As cochairs of the International Dialogue on Peacebuilding and Statebuilding (IDPS), the Honourable Karina Gould, Minister of International Development, and Honourable Francis M. KaiKai, Minister of Planning and Economic Development of Sierra Leone, today issued the following statement on behalf of the IDPS:“We, the members of the International Dialogue on Peacebuilding and Statebuilding, stand in solidarity with all those affected by the COVID19 pandemic. The pandemic is a human tragedy and a global crisis that poses grave risks for fragile and conflictaffected states (FCAS) that extend beyond direct health impacts alone.“Together, we are particularly concerned about the pandemic’s potentially destabilizing socioeconomic impacts in FCAS. In this regard, we support the United Nations SecretaryGeneral’s call for a global ceasefire to allow countries to unite in responding to the pandemic. In the spirit of cooperation and mutual support, we also welcome the statements on responding to the pandemic made by the g7+ group of FCAS and the Civil Society Platform for Peacebuilding and Statebuilding [CSPPS].“At this difficult time, we draw the international community’s attention to the need for a holistic COVID19 response to ensure that hardwon peacebuilding, statebuilding and conflictprevention gains in FCAS are sustained. This will require responses that draw on integrated support from partners across the humanitariandevelopmentpeace nexus and that are also inclusive, nationally led, conflictsensitive, attuned to conflict drivers and focused on prevention and resilience. Without this cooperation, the goals of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development risk slipping further out of reach.“In this context, we reaffirm our commitment to advocating for COVID19 response efforts that advance priorities established by IDPS members in the IDPS 2019 to 2021 Peace Vision, the 2030 Agenda (notably Sustainable Development Goal 16+), the New Deal for Engagement in Fragile States and the Stockholm Declaration. We reaffirm the relevance of our Peace Vision priority themes in our COVID19 response efforts to enhance national cohesion; advance gender equality and the Women, Peace and Security Agenda; and support a peacepromoting private sector.“We encourage national governments to ensure that measures used to respond to COVID19 contribute to just and inclusive societies and do not hamper contributions from various actors, including youth, women peacebuilders and human rights defenders. We also reiterate the need to continue supporting the protection and expansion of civil society’s operating space in implementing measures to address the pandemic, including during lockdowns.“Recognizing that women, girls and other vulnerable groups, such as migrants, refugees and those living in poverty, will be disproportionally affected by the crisis, the global response must be gender responsive and include interventions that protect all vulnerable groups from potential violence and other effects of COVID19 responses.“In this context, we also acknowledge the need to galvanize support from the private sector to support propeace activities, as well as safeguard livelihoods and the immediate and longerterm economic effects for people affected by the crisis. Together, we will strive to protect official development assistance budgets, encourage other financial flows to support governments and communities in FCAS and invite all of our peacebuilding partners to do the same.“The COVID19 pandemic has created a global crisis, and we stress that national responses alone will be insufficient to cope with the various dimensions of its impact (political, economic, social and human capital). The IDPS, as a unique tripartite platform, has an important role to play in bringing together development partners, the g7+ Group and civil society to preserve peace. In addressing this highly complex crisis, the IDPS partnership will endeavour to mobilize diverse actors to ensure inclusive dialogue and collective engagement, and to foster SouthSouth, triangular and fragilefragile cooperation. We will work together to ensure that our peacebuilding, statebuilding and conflictprevention objectives remain at the forefront of responses to the pandemic , and together, we will continue to advance our common objective of driving positive change for those in fragile and conflictaffected situations.”"
275,Readout: Minister Ng meets with European Union Commissioner for Trade Phil Hogan,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/05/readout-minister-ng-met-with-european-union-commissioner-for-trade-phil-hogan.html,5/15/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, met virtually today with Phil Hogan, European Union Commissioner for Trade, to discuss ways Canada and the European Union (EU) can continue to work closely together to support businesses and workers as we look towards economic recovery.Minister Ng emphasized the importance of the EU to Canadian workers, farmers, producers, and businesses as Canada’s second largest trading partner. Our trading relationship is critical in allowing both Canadians and Europeans access to the goods and services they rely on.The meeting was an opportunity to outline how the CanadaEuropean Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) is an essential part of the COVID19 recovery effort, providing stability for Canadian businesses in this uncertain time.In the two years since CETA came into effect, twoway trade between Canada and the EU has increased by nearly 15%. Through CETA, Canada and the EU are working to ensure our trade relations are more inclusive by ensuring that everyone – including women and small business owners – can share in the benefits of trade.Minister Ng impressed the need for Canada and the EU to work together to ensure Canadian businesses and workers – specifically our farmers, producers, and manufacturers – benefit from the agreement. She underscored the importance of improving EU market access for Canadian agricultural products through the removal of technical barriers to trade. She also emphasized the need to accelerate the accreditation of Canadian conformity assessment bodies responsible for the certification of Canadian goods to EU requirements.The Minister and Commissioner discussed the need for strong international coordination through the G20 and the World Trade Organization (WTO), and highlighted their critical work in establishing the WTO MultiParty Interim Arrangement to underpin rulesbased trade throughout the pandemic and beyond. Minister Ng spoke of the urgency for G20 members to deliver on their collective action plan to mitigate the impacts of COVID19 on jobs, trade, and the global economy.Lastly, the Minister and the Commissioner discussed their shared interest in reconvening Ottawa Group ministers virtually in early June to address WTO reform and the role of the WTO in supporting economic recovery for our citizens."
276,Statement from Minister Ng on joint commitment with WTO members to support small businesses,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/05/statement-from-minister-ng-on-joint-commitment-with-wto-members-to-support-small-businesses.html,5/14/20,2020, statements," The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, today issued the following statement:“Our government is unwavering in our support for Canadian businesses—of every size, every sector, and every region of the country.“Small and mediumsized businesses make up 99% of all Canadian companies—and as Canada and our international partners take gradual steps toward recovery, we will do everything we can to help them through this.“Today, Canada and 48 World Trade Organization [WTO] members signed a joint statement committing to address the immediate economic challenges faced by small and mediumsized enterprises throughout this crisis and beyond. We also reaffirmed our support for the central role of the WTO in international trade.“Businesses and workers depend on stability, predictability, and open global supply chains to do business around the world—and this also ensures that people get the essential goods and services they need when they need them.“Coordinating with our international partners is critical to ensuring that Canadian businesses, whether small or mediumsized, have the tools, resources, and relief they need during this unprecedented time.“We continue to take extraordinary measures to help small businesses overcome this crisis and build resilience for future challenges.”"
277,Readout: Minister Ng meets virtually with G20 international trade counterparts to coordinate economic action plan,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/05/readout-minister-ng-meets-virtually-with-g20-international-trade-counterparts-to-coordinate-economic-action-plan.html,5/14/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, met virtually today with her G20 international trade counterparts. During the meeting, they committed to a collective action plan to mitigate the effects of COVID19 on jobs, trade, and the global economy, while ensuring the health and safety of their citizens.To support businesses and workers, and lay the foundation for an inclusive and sustainable economic recovery that benefits everyone, the G20 ministers agreed to a range of short and longterm steps designed to keep trade flowing and global supply chains open. This includes enhancing transparency; improving air, land and marine connectivity; and strengthening international investment and the multilateral trading system.During the meeting, Minister Ng highlighted the importance of prioritizing tradesupport measures over export restrictions, as well as the critical role of multilateral institutions like the World Trade Organization (WTO) in ensuring the economic stability, security and prosperity of Canadians and people around the world.The ministers also discussed specific challenges faced by the most vulnerable people, including those in small businesses. Minister Ng raised the WTO statement on supporting small businesses, endorsed by 49 WTO members today, as bringing muchneeded attention to need to help them through this crisis.Minister Ng emphasized the need for countries to follow through on the collective actions in the G20 action plan without delay to benefit businesses, workers, and people."
278,Backgrounder – Canadian support for global vaccinations,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/05/backgrounder--canadian-support-for-global-vaccinations.html,5/12/20,2020, backgrounders,"Despite the positive impact of strong routine immunization programs, about 1.5 million children under the age of 5 die annually of vaccinepreventable diseases. An estimated 20 million infants worldwide are still missing out on basic vaccines.A recent Johns Hopkins University study confirmed that immunization is one of the best buys in public health. The overall economic gain will exceed US$1.5 trillion between 2011 and 2020 across the 94 countries in the study.Infectious diseases affect women and girls disproportionately due to their role as the main caregivers for the sick, especially children.Outbreaks of diseases such as the Ebola virus, Zika virus and cholera can develop into unforeseen public health emergencies, where gender inequalities can increase women’s and girls’ exposure, reduce their access to health resources and skew monitoring and reporting of health risks and outcomes.Supporting Gavi is a high priority for Canada, given the organization’s strong track record for saving the lives of children and protecting people’s health by increasing the use of vaccines in vulnerable countries.Gavi supports vaccines that immunize children against pneumonia, diarrhea and meningitis, some of the world’s leading killers of children.A third replenishment conference for Gavi is scheduled for June 2020 in London, United Kingdom, to be hosted by Boris Johnson, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. There, donors will make their pledges for the next strategic period from 2021 to 2025. The focus for this period is on addressing genderrelated barriers to immunization. The conference will be held virtually.Established in 1988, the Global Polio Eradication Initiative is a partnership between the World Health Organization, UNICEF, Rotary International, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Canada has been a longstanding donor to the Global Polio Eradication Initiative.The Global Polio Eradication Initiative is aligned with Canada’s Feminist International Assistance Policy and intends to ensure equitable access to lifesaving vaccines and increase the representation of women as community social mobilizers and vaccinators."
279,Minister Gould announces funding for global vaccinations,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/05/minister-gould-announces-funding-for-global-vaccinations.html,5/12/20,2020, news releases," In the midst of a global pandemic, it is more important than ever to acknowledge that vaccines and routine immunizations save millions of lives each year. Canada remains committed to ensuring access to essential vaccinations, leading efforts to advance gender equality and reducing the burden of infectious diseases.The Honourable Karina Gould, Minister of International Development, today announced new support to Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, and the Global Polio Eradication Initiative’s endgame strategy, toward ensuring regular routine immunizations for hundreds of million children around the world. The Minister made this announcement at the launch of the Group of Friends of Solidarity for Global Health Security virtual meeting, which she cohosted alongside her counterparts from Denmark, Qatar, the Republic of Korea and Sierra Leone.This replenishment funding ensures that Gavi is able to build on its incredible reach with vaccinations by identifying opportunities for advancing sexual and reproductive health and rights programming, in partnership with communities and local organizations. Predictable financing will allow Gavi to save between 7 million and 8 million lives.Gavi is currently helping lowincome countries respond to COVID19 outbreaks, including making additional funding available for strengthening health systems. When a COVID19 vaccine is developed, Gavi will be well positioned to ensure the scaleup of manufacturing, access and allocation, along with timely delivery, of new vaccines in vulnerable countries.At the same time, front line workers in many countries are using networks established by the Global Polio Eradication Initiative to focus on case detection, tracing, testing and data management.Global efforts to eradicate polio have already prevented 18 million cases of paralysis, and the wild poliovirus has been eliminated from 99.9% of the world’s regions. This is one of the great global health success stories of the last 30 years, and Canada is proud to have been a partner every step of the way—especially now, with victory and eradication so close.Canada is pledging $600 million to the third replenishment of Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, and committing $47.5 million annually over four years to support the Global Polio Eradication Initiative’s endgame strategy.Today’s funding investments will help the World Health Organization, the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, Gavi and other partners support the most vulnerable countries by working to ensure that routine immunization continues, that we do not lose the gains we have made in global health and that we prevent a resurgence of polio and other communicable diseases for which we have vaccines."
280,Minister of Foreign Affairs to mark 75th anniversary of victory in Europe at UN Security Council,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/05/minister-of-foreign-affairs-to-mark-75th-anniversary-of-victory-in-europe-at-un-security-council.html,5/8/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, will mark the 75th anniversary of victory in Europe by highlighting Canada’s ongoing commitment to multilateralism, during a virtual United Nations Security Council (UNSC) Arriaformula meeting on May 8, 2020. The meeting, entitled 75 Years from the End of the Second World War on European Soil: Lessons Learned for Preventing Future Atrocities, Responsibility of the Security Council, will be an opportunity to discuss  international security and conflict resolution, including in the context of the Covid19 crisis.A video of the meeting will be available following the event at https://un.mfa.ee"
281,Statement on Protecting Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights and Promoting Gender-Responsiveness in the COVID-19 Crisis,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/05/statement-on-protecting-sexual-and-reproductive-health-and-rights-and-promoting-gender-responsiveness-in-the-covid-19-crisis.html,5/6/20,2020, statements,"We, the Ministers of South Africa, Sweden, Argentina, Australia, Albania, Belgium, Bolivia, BosniaHerzegovina, Cabo Verde, Canada, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, Fiji, France, Germany, Greece, Guinea, Italy, Latvia, Lebanon, Liberia, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Madagascar, Montenegro, Netherlands, North Macedonia, Namibia, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Romania, Serbia, Spain, Switzerland, Tuvalu, and the United Kingdom, are honored to issue this joint statement on behalf of the people and governments of 59 countries: Albania, Argentina, Armenia, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bolivia, BosniaHerzegovina, Bulgaria, Canada, Cabo Verde, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Ecuador, Estonia, Fiji, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Guinea, Ireland, Iceland, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Lebanon, Liberia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Madagascar, Mexico, Moldova, Montenegro, Namibia, Netherlands, North Macedonia, New Zealand, Norway, Peru, Portugal, Republic of Korea, Romania, Serbia, South Africa, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Tunisia, Tuvalu, Switzerland, United Kingdom, Ukraine and Uruguay.Humanity is confronted with the unprecedented threat of COVID19. Around the world, the pandemic is having a devastating impact on health systems, economies and the lives, livelihood and wellbeing of all, particularly older people. Responding effectively to this fastgrowing pandemic requires solidarity and cooperation among all governments, scientists, civil society actors and the private sector. COVID19 affects women and men differently. The pandemic makes existing inequalities for women and girls, as well as discrimination of other marginalized groups such as persons with disabilities and those in extreme poverty worse and risk impeding the realization of human rights for women and girls. Participation, protection and potential of all women and girls must be at the center of response efforts. These efforts must be genderresponsive and consider different impacts surrounding detection, diagnosis and access to treatment for all women and men.The restrictive measures designed to limit the spread of the virus around the world, increase the risk of domestic violence, including intimate partner violence. As health and social protection as well as legal systems that protect all women and girls under normal circumstances are weakened or under pressure by the COVID19, specific measures should be implemented to prevent violence against women and girls. The emergency responses should ensure that all women and girls who are refugees, migrants or internally displaced are protected. Sexual and reproductive health needs, including psychosocial support services, and protection from genderbased violence, must be prioritized to ensure continuity. We must also assume responsibility for social protection and ensure adolescent health, rights and wellbeing during schools closedown. Any restrictions to the enjoyment of human rights should be prescribed by law, and in accordance with international law and rigorously assessed.We support the active participation and leadership of women and girls at all levels of decisionmaking, including at community level, through their networks and organizations, to ensure efforts and response are genderresponsive and will not further discriminate and exclude those most at risk.It is crucial that leaders recognize the central role of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in health emergencies and the need for robust health systems to save lives. In this context, sexual health services are essential. We recommit to the immediate implementation of the UHC political declaration by all. Funding sexual and reproductive health and rights should remain a priority to avoid a rise in maternal and newborn mortality, increased unmet need for contraception, and an increased number of unsafe abortions and sexually transmitted infections.Around the world, midwives, nurses and community health workers are essential to contain COVID19 and they require personal protective equipment. Safe pregnancy and childbirth depend on all these health workers, adequate health facilities, and strict adherence to infection prevention. Respiratory illnesses in pregnant women, particularly COVID19 infections, must be priority due to increased risk of adverse outcomes. As our national and international supply chains are impacted by this pandemic, we recommit to providing all women and girls of reproductive age with reproductive health commodities. And we call on governments around the world to ensure full and unimpeded access to all sexual and reproductive health services for all women and girls.We welcome the multilateral efforts, including by the UN, including UNFPA and UN Women, WHO, the World Bank and IMF, and regional development banks, as well as the G7 and G20 declarations, towards a coherent and global response to COVID19. We encourage them all in their efforts with national governments and other partners to ensure an effective response and assurance of the continuation of essential health services and rights.We must coordinate our efforts in this global health crisis. We support the UN General Assembly resolution entitled Global Solidarity to fight COVID19. And we encourage all governments, the private sector, civil society, philanthropists and others to join us in supporting the emergency response, particularly in the most vulnerable countries, and to give full effect to the global commitment to universal access to health care."
282,Statement on joint collaboration by APEC members amid COVID-19 pandemic,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/05/statement-on-joint-collaboration-by-apec-members-amid-covid-19-pandemic.html,5/5/20,2020, statements," The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, today issued the following statement:“As Canada and countries around the world gradually take steps to restart our economies, we must support our citizens while protecting their health and safety.“That’s why we are working closely with our international partners to ensure that the measures we take in response to the COVID19 pandemic do not impose unjustified or harmful burdens on workers, businesses, and our global economies.“Today, Canada and the other 20 members of the AsiaPacific Economic Cooperation [APEC] endorsed a statement committing to mitigate the economic impacts caused by COVID19 and to plan for economic recovery—especially in developing countries. As a founding member of APEC, Canada recognizes the importance of collaboration with the dynamic and fastgrowing economies in the AsiaPacific region.“We agreed that it is imperative that trade remains open and predictable to facilitate the flow of essential goods and services, and to minimize disruptions to global supply chains. We agreed that emergency measures designed to tackle COVID19 must be targeted, proportionate, transparent, temporary, and consistent with World Trade Organization rules.“Canada’s continued work with our international partners will build on our collective knowledge, experience, and resourcefulness to address this pandemic in a dynamic, innovative, and timely manner.”"
283,Canada welcomes Sudanese government decision to ban female genital mutilation,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/05/canada-welcomes-sudanese-government-decision-to-ban-female-genital-mutilation.html,5/4/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and the Honourable Karina Gould, Minister of International Development, today issued the following statement on the decision to ban female genital mutilation in Sudan:“Canada welcomes the Sudanese government’s decision to ban female genital mutilation (FGM), and hopes that the draft law will enjoy swift ratification. We echo the Sudanese Foreign Ministry’s statement that female genital mutilation is a ‘clear violation against women and a crime against women's rights,’ and we commend the Sudanese government for taking this momentous step.“We note that this draft law is only the latest of a number of reforms proposed or enacted by the transitional government led by Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok to promote human rights. We applaud the Government of Sudan for putting the rights of women at the centre of their reform agenda.“Canada is committed to supporting efforts towards ending FGM worldwide, including through our important relationships with women’s rights organizations and advocates."
284,Minister of Foreign Affairs marks World Press Freedom Day,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/05/minister-of-foreign-affairs-marks-world-press-freedom-day.html,5/3/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement:“Journalists and media workers play a vital role in our society by providing us with the information we need to make informed decisions, broadening our horizons and holding individuals and institutions to account.“As we mark World Press Freedom Day, journalist and media workers continue to be targeted in the pursuit of the truth. In 2019 alone, 25 journalists were killed for their work. Countless others were intimidated, jailed or tortured—often with impunity. All over the world, censorship and misinformation propagated by states are increasing.“In times of great uncertainty, such as these we are living in right now, quality journalism is critical. By ensuring that people have access to credible and accurate public health information, journalists are helping to save lives.“Freedom of the press is a cornerstone of democracy. Now, more than ever, we must raise our voices in support of its preservation and in opposition to those who would seek to subvert it.”Quick factsAlongside the United Kingdom, Canada cohosted the inaugural Global Conference for Media Freedom in July 2019, where the Media Freedom Coalition was formed. The coalition is a partnership of 36 countries and other stakeholders working together to advocate for press freedom.Canada is proud to cochair the Media Freedom Coalition, together with the United Kingdom.Canada is also supporting efforts to promote media freedom through the Global Media Defence Fund, which is administered by UNESCO and issued its first call for proposals in April 2020.Canada looks forward to hosting the second Global Conference for Media Freedom.Associated linksFreedom of expression and media freedomUnited Nations World Press Freedom Day"
285,Statement by the Media Freedom Coalition on World Press Freedom Day,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/05/statement-by-the-media-freedom-coalition-on-world-press-freedom-day.html,5/3/20,2020, statements,"19 pandemic, these principles have seldom been more urgent or important. As recognised in the recent statement from the Executive Group of the Media Freedom Coalition, journalists and other media workers reporting from the front lines of this health crisis keep societies informed, promote proper health measures and counter false or misleading information.  We commend their work.“In times of crisis such as these, the role of a free press is more important than ever.“Unfortunately, many states continue to restrict and censor the media and journalists face increasing danger in a growing number of countries.  Too often, journalists and media workers are threatened, intimidated, and even killed–often with impunity–just for doing their job.   Today and every day, we pay tribute to those we have lost, and commit to a world where every journalist and media worker can report without fear.  “To counter threats to media freedom, all states must take action at a national level to ensure these fundamental rights are upheld within their own borders, and advocate for these rights elsewhere in the world.“The coalition is a partnership of countries, civil society and other stakeholders working together proactively to advocate for media freedom and safety of journalists. It responds to the need for ensuring better cooperation and coordination through an international and multistakeholder approach.“We commend those governments that have taken bold and decisive action to strengthen the protection of media freedom. At this critical time, journalists and media professionals need our support and protection. We welcome the launch of the first call for proposals from UNESCO’s Global Media Defence Fund that was set up with contributions from our members.“Together, we remain committed to promoting media freedom and standing against any efforts to undermine it.”SignedAustriaBulgariaCanadaCzech RepublicDenmarkEstoniaFranceGermanyGreeceIcelandLatviaLithuaniaLuxembourgMontenegroNetherlandsSlovakiaSloveniaSwitzerlandUkraineUnited KingdomUnited States"
286,Minister Champagne to participate in UNESCO World Press Freedom Day 2020 online event,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/05/minister-champagne-to-participate-in-unesco-world-press-freedom-day-2020-online-event.html,5/3/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, will participate in a UNESCO World Press Freedom Day virtual event on press freedom and tackling disinformation taking place tomorrow.The event will feature António Guterres, UN SecretaryGeneral, Audrey Azoulay, UNESCO DirectorGeneral, Michelle Bachelet, UN High Commissioner on Human Rights, as well as political figures and representatives from the media, business and civil society.The online UNESCO highlevel dialogue will focus on the importance of press freedom and independent journalism to provide reliable, lifesaving information during the COVID19 pandemic.This virtual event will be streamed live on May 4, 2020, at 11:00 am EDT through UNESCO's Facebook, Youtube and Twitter."
287,Minister of Foreign Affairs to participate in UNESCO World Press Freedom Day virtual event,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/05/minister-of-foreign-affairs-to-participate-in-unesco-world-press-freedom-day-virtual-event.html,5/3/20,2020, media advisories," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, will participate in a UNESCO World Press Freedom Day virtual event on press freedom and tackling disinformation taking place tomorrow.
Date: Monday, May 4, 2020 Time: 11 am ET Notes for media: The event will be streamed live by UNESCO on Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube."
288,Statement on malicious cyber threats to the health sector,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/04/statement-on-malicious-cyber-threats-to-the-health-sector.html,4/30/20,2020, statements," Global Affairs Canada, today issued the following statement:“At a time when the world is focused on fighting the COVID19 pandemic, we have noted that malicious cyber actors are using this as an opportunity to increase cyber threats targeting vulnerable institutions in the health sector. Canada strongly condemns any malicious cyber activities, particularly irresponsible and destabilizing actions that put people’s lives at risk.“Just as the international community must join forces to contain, counter and prevent the spread of COVID19, we must uphold the rulesbased international order and the framework of responsible state behaviour in cyberspace. When the health sector and frontline workers around the world need every possible resource at their disposal, we must stand together against dangerous and unacceptable action by malicious cyber actors that attempt to put lives at risk and hinder response efforts.“Canada reaffirms its support for an open, secure, stable, accessible and peaceful cyberspace and calls on all actors to refrain from malicious cyber activity that could damage or harm critical infrastructures, particularly hospitals, treatment research facilities and the health sector.“Canada remains steadfast in its solidarity with allies and partners in promoting a framework for responsible state behaviour in cyberspace. We also remain committed to working with partners to prevent, discourage and counter malicious cyber activity at home and around the world.”Quick factsOn March 20, 2020, the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security (Cyber Centre) issued an alert on cyber threats to Canadian health organizations. The Cyber Centre continues its ongoing engagement with the health sector about a range of threats and implementing mitigation measures. It has determined that the COVID19 pandemic presents an elevated level of risk to the cyber security of Canadian health organizations involved in the national response to the pandemic.Related linksCyber Centre alerts and publications:Cyber threats to Canadian health organizationsStaying cyberhealthy during COVID19 isolationCyber hygiene for COVID19"
289,Readout: Minister Ng speaks with New Zealand’s Minister for Trade and Export Growth,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/04/readout-minister-ng-speaks-with-new-zealands-minister-for-trade-and-export-growth.html,4/28/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, spoke with David Parker, New Zealand’s Minister for Trade and Export Growth, yesterday evening, April 27, 2020.Minister Parker expressed New Zealand’s sincere condolences regarding the national tragedy in Nova Scotia, which reminded him of the horrific attack in Christchurch, New Zealand, last year.Minister Ng commended Minister Parker on New Zealand’s management of COVID19, which has led to positive developments on the road to reopening his country’s economy. The ministers discussed specific challenges that must be addressed during the pandemic, including the importance of supporting the most vulnerable people and small businesses in need of help. Minister Ng spoke about how this will play a large role in Canada’s approach to economic recovery.Regarding international trade, Minister Parker noted New Zealand’s appreciation for Canada’s leadership on COVID19 at the World Trade Organization (WTO) – including the Canadaled joint statement on April 22, 2020, committing to open and predictable trade for agriculture and agrifood so that Canadians and people worldwide can have access to essential food and agricultural products.The ministers also discussed opportunities to build on their existing collaboration, including through the Ottawa Group, which works on WTO reform, to keep trade flowing and global supply chains open to ensure stability and predictability for our citizens and businesses in this uncertain time."
290,Statement on joint WTO efforts to ensure open and predictable trade for food and agricultural products amid COVID-19,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/04/statement-on-joint-wto-efforts-to-ensure-open-and-predictable-trade-for-food-and-agricultural-products-amid-covid-19.html,4/22/20,2020, statements," The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, today issued the following statement:“As countries take action to respond to the impacts of coronavirus disease (COVID19), it is imperative that trade remains open and predictable to ensure people in Canada and around the world can access the food and essential goods they need.“Today, Canada and 23 WTO members signed onto a joint statement to reinforce international cooperation on trade in agricultural and agrifood products. This will help to protect and promote food security, nutrition and the health of people around the world.“Members committed to not imposing agriculture export restrictions or implementing unjustified trade barriers on agriculture and agrifood products and key agricultural production inputs.“They also agreed that emergency measures related to agriculture and agrifood products designed to tackle COVID19 must be targeted, proportionate, transparent, temporary and consistent with WTO rules.“At this critical time, Canada continues to work with its international partners to ensure that safe, affordable and nutritious food is available and accessible to Canadians and people around the world.”"
291,Statement on the passing of former diplomat Allan Gotlieb,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/04/statement-on-the-passing-of-former-diplomat-allan-gotlieb.html,4/21/20,2020, statements," Global Affairs Canada today issued the following statement on the passing of Allan Gotlieb:“Global Affairs Canada and its employees were saddened to learn of the death of Allan Gotlieb, an exceptional public servant and diplomat whose influential work has left a lasting impression on Canada’s foreign policy.“Mr. Gotlieb led a distinguished public service career, and his dedication to Canadians and Canada’s foreign policy are demonstrated by the many crucial roles he occupied.“During his extraordinary career with the Department of External Affairs, he was appointed as a member of the Conference of the EighteenNation Committee on Disarmament, head of the Legal Division, alternate delegate to the General Assembly of the United Nations and undersecretary of state for external affairs. He also served as Canada’s ambassador to the United States for nearly a decade.“Mr. Gotlieb achieved public service excellence beyond the department as well, having been appointed as both deputy minister of the former Department of Communications and deputy minister of the department responsible for immigration.“He was an accomplished scholar, who published many books and articles in the fields of international law and political science, providing crucial insights into the central role of multilateralism, international consensus and coalition building in Canada’s foreign policy.“On behalf of all Global Affairs Canada staff in Canada and abroad, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Mr. Gotlieb’s family and loved ones.”"
292,"Joint Statement by Brazil, Canada, Italy and Egypt following the Extraordinary High-Level Meeting of the Group of Friends of Food Security and Nutrition on the impact of COVID-19 on food availability and supply",https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/04/joint-statement-by-brazil-canada-italy-and-egypt-following-the-extraordinary-high-level-meeting-of-the-group-of-friends-of-food-security-and-nutrit.html,4/21/20,2020, statements," The Honourable Ms. Emanuela Claudia Del Re, Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of Italy, as Chair of the Group of Friends of Food Security and Nutrition in New York, the Honourable Ms. Karina Gould,  Minister of International Development of Canada, the Honourable Mr. Orlando Leite Ribeiro, Vice Minister for Trade and International Relations of the Ministry of Agriculture Livestock and Food Supply, and the High Level Representative of Egypt, Ambassador Mohamed Edrees Permanent Representative to the UN, today issued the following statement:“On Friday April 17th, we convened an extraordinary virtual video conference bringing together Ambassadors from across the entire membership of the United Nations with the participation of the President of the General Assembly, the Deputy Secretary General, the President of IFAD, the Executive Director of WFP, the Chief Economist and Assistant Director General of FAO and the Special Envoy for the 2021 Food Systems Summit to exchange views and experiences on actions that may be taken to mitigate the potential socioeconomic impacts of COVID19 on food availability and supply and to attain food security. We thank the more than 270 participants who attended.“We were seized by the real concerns that the current health crisis could trigger a food crisis in many regions of the world, especially in Africa and Small Islands Developing States, further imperiling the health and livelihoods of hundreds of millions of people, in particular in fragile contexts. Such a crisis could lead to additional negative consequences to health. Signs of disruptions to food supply chains are already visible as countries move to enact measures to halt the pandemic.“We were reminded of how many countries rely heavily on regular imports of basic staples and food distribution channels. There are particular vulnerabilities in many developing countries in Africa and parts of Asia and Latin America, including among Least Developed Countries, LandLocked Developing Countries, and Small Island Developing States, where agriculture is the backbone of the economy and employment. Local, regional, and global food security will depend more than ever on strengthening the resilience of food systems to withstand multiple shocks, and also on helping smallholder farmers, fishers, pastoralists and food processors – many of whom are women – obtain inputs, plant and harvest their crops, and sell their products for a fair price in a safe environment.“We were struck by the urgent call for action, taking into account the upcoming planting and harvest seasons and the need to enhance the resilience of the food supply chain, recognizing the potential impact of major demand and supply shocks on agrifood producers, agricultural workers and the large number of women and men employed in related activities. We welcomed the active and close collaboration of the Romebased UN agencies (FAO, IFAD and WFP), at headquarters and in the field, leveraging their expertise on food security in support of countries’ actions to minimize unintended impacts of the COVID19 response on food supply, global trade and food security. This included collaboration with other partners such as WHO, WTO and the International Financial Institutions (IFIs). We call on the Agricultural Market Information System (AMIS) of the G20 to continue monitoring global food markets and policies and provide timely and reliable information, thus enhancing transparency and supporting timely and evidencebased decisionmaking.More than ever, we need to work together in a coordinated and integrated manner, in coherence with the three pillars of action of the UN system: peace and security, sustainable development and human rights. Strengthening the fundamental nexus between humanitarian assistance and sustainable development will also be crucial. We welcome new collaborative initiatives, and in this spirit, we look forward to further details regarding the Food Coalition proposed by Italy.“Today, Italy, as Chair of the Group of Friends of Food Security and Nutrition, Brazil, Canada and Egypt stand committed to supporting the UN system at the global, regional and country level, engaging the WTO, the IFIs and the G20 to ensure that trade measures do not restrict the flow of food and critical agricultural inputs across borders in the short and long term. Open, transparent, and predictable trade is critical to keep food supply chains going and prices stable during and after the COVID19 pandemic crisis. We look forward to the outcomes of the upcoming G20 Agriculture Ministers’ meeting.In these challenging times, we must ensure everyone, especially the most vulnerable, can have access to adequate, safe, affordable and nutritious food and that smallholder farmers and processors receive the inputs, agriculture technologies, scientific based information, liquidity, taking into account the need to address risks of debt vulnerabilities in developing countries due to the pandemic, and the access to markets they need to produce, store, and sell food, invest in women and ensure they have access to land, credit and digital information. The aftermath of the COVID19 crisis can be an opportunity to build back better and achieve global food security and decent livelihood for all.The path towards the 2021 Food Systems Summit also provides a timely opportunity for all food systems actors to strengthen the resilience and sustainability of our food systems to help galvanize the postemergency recovery through a set of initiatives focused on innovation, financing, technology, partnerships and new levels of regional and global collaboration and information sharing.”"
293,Readout: Minister Gould speaks with head of World Health Organization,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/04/readout-minister-gould-speaks-with-head-of-world-health-organization.html,4/20/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable Karina Gould, Minister of International Development, today spoke with Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, DirectorGeneral of the World Health Organization (WHO).Minister Gould began the conversation by conveying Canada’s appreciation for the WHO’s leadership in responding to the COVID19 pandemic.During the call, they agreed that a global crisis like this has the potential to exacerbate inequalities and reverse development gains. In particular, it may have devastating health outcomes for the world’s most marginalized populations. They stressed the importance of working with developingcountry partners to strengthen health systems to enhance resilience going forward. In particular, they agreed on the importance of focusing on primary healthcare systems as communities recover after the pandemic.Minister Gould and Dr. Tedros also discussed the critical need for a postcrisis afteraction review that will be important to provide insights and learning to both member states and the WHO and support improvements to response and preparedness efforts in the future. Dr. Tedros affirmed the WHO’s commitment to full transparency and accountability.In conclusion, Minister Gould reiterated Canada’s unwavering commitment to combat the pandemic, which includes supporting the WHO’s critical role in maintaining supply chains of essential goods, notably medical supplies. Canada is particularly concerned about the challenges faced by smallisland developing states and subSaharan Africa. Minister Gould and Dr. Tedros agreed to remain in close contact with one another as the global pandemic continues to evolve."
294,Statement on arrests of political figures in Hong Kong,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/04/statement-on-arrests-of-political-figures-in-hong-kong.html,4/19/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement:“Canada is concerned by the arrests of political figures in Hong Kong on April 18 in relation to popular demonstrations that took place last year and believes that this extraordinary measure calls for close scrutiny. “With hundreds of thousands of Canadians living in Hong Kong, we have a vested interest in Hong Kong’s stability and prosperity—the foundation of which is its relative autonomy and basic freedoms.“We urge all sides involved in the crisis to exercise restraint, to refrain from violence and to engage in peaceful and inclusive dialogue to address the legitimate concerns expressed during the 2019 protests.“Canada supports the right of peaceful protest and Hong Kong’s high degree of autonomy and freedoms under the Basic Law and the One Country, Two Systems framework. “Canada will continue to closely monitor the situation in Hong Kong.”"
295,Declaration of the Ministerial Coordination Group on COVID-19 on maintaining essential global links,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/04/declaration-of-the-ministerial-coordination-group-on-covid19covid19-on-maintaining-essential-global-links.html,4/17/20,2020, backgrounders,"19 (MCGC) agreed on the following declaration and urged other countries to adopt a similar approach:As the world manages the impact of the COVID19 pandemic, it is vital that we work together to save lives and livelihoods.  Global cooperation is necessary to mitigate the unprecedented disruption to the global economy, trade, and travel.  We must endeavour to deliver a strong and coordinated global health response including developing a vaccine and relevant treatments and to identify best practices to emerge from the crisis as a stronger, more interconnected world.We commit to work with all countries to coordinate on public health, travel, trade, economic and financial measures in order to minimize disruptions and recover stronger by reinforcing global links and the multilateral system, and in support of sustainable development.We recognize and commit to addressing the particular challenges faced by vulnerable countries and groups, including in Africa and Small Island Developing States, including the resilience of their health systems and access to medical supplies and personal protective equipment, and support a timebound suspension of debt service payments for the poorest countries that request forbearance. We also recognize that women, in particular, are disproportionately impacted by the COVID19 pandemic and that responses must account for genderdifferentiated considerations.We note the importance of maintaining air, land and marine transportation links and supply chain connectivity to facilitate the return home of travellers who may be stranded, minimize disruptions, ensure the necessary flow of goods and services between countries, notably the fair, transparent, efficient and timely access to and distribution of personal protective equipment, medicine and other essential medical material as well as food and enable humanitarian workers and NGOs to pursue their indispensable work.We acknowledge the importance and critical role of the scientific community in providing guidance to governments in managing the COVID19 pandemic.In this context, we will continue to promote and protect free trade and we agree that emergency measures designed to tackle COVID19, if deemed necessary, must be targeted, proportionate, transparent and temporary, and that they dodo not create unnecessary barriers to trade or disruption to global supply chains, and are consistent with WTO rules.We recognize with appreciation those air and sea ports that have remained open and have served as bridges to bring home stranded nationals and to support the transport of essential cargo. We express our thanks to the airlines and shipping companies, and their personnel, border and other national officials involved in this effort, that have continued to operate in exceptional circumstances.  Going forward, individually, bilaterally and through our participation in various global, regional and plurilateral groups, we will work with all international partners through the leadership of the UN, noting the UN’s Global Humanitarian Response Plan and the UN Supply Chain Task Force, recognizing the critical role of the WHO and its Strategic Preparedness and Response Plan, as well as the WTO, WCO, ICAO and IMO to:   a. encourage key transport hubs around the world to remain open to travel, transit and cargo by air, sea and landb. recognizing that airports and airlines are commercial operations, we will continue to work closely with our own domestic airports and airlines to ensure sufficient capacity to allow stranded travellers to return and to preserve vital connectivityc. encourage airlines and relevant authorities to maintain key travel routes to support these efforts to ensure as many stranded nationals as possible are able to return by commercial means as well as to permit essential travel, including essential business travel focused on minimizing the social and economic impact of COVID19d. underline the importance of exchanging best practices and work towards a common approach in support of nationals travelling homee. minimize barriers to the operation of special flights where commercial routes are not possible and allow maximum flexibility for internal domestic travel to allow stranded nationals to reach airports; consistent with applicable domestic and international laws and public health directives, including selfisolation and other requirements upon returnf. agree to a joint commitment, in accordance with existing national laws and policies, to visa or status extensions, as appropriate, for individuals who are unable to leave because of COVID19 related travel restrictionsg. agree to support stranded foreign nationals and offer them access to essential healthcare services while fighting against discrimination and targeting based on ethnicityh. encourage sea ports to remain open for cargo operations and the continued availability of shipping services to support the transport of goods, including essential supplies, wherever they are neededi. taking into account the exceptional circumstances created by the COVID19 pandemic for the air transport industry, encourage airlines to facilitate the return of stranded passengers, including through rebooking with alternative airlines if possible, and to assist passengers who want to cancel their trips or postpone themj. encourage our private sectors, working in close collaboration with health and public safety authorities, to continue their efforts to retool, scale up and repurpose manufacturing toward critical needs in order to meet national and global demands, including of vulnerable groups and countries, and begin consideration of improving efficiencies and the reliability of global and national production and distribution following the immediate crisisk. pool scientific resources and efforts, promote research and share findings, including through the WHO’s COVID19 Solidarity Response Fund, the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations, GAVI and the Vaccine Alliance and welcome the launching of an International Alliance for COVID19 Vaccine, to work towards developing a vaccine, therapeutics and enhanced testing kits to be available to all countriesl. identify best practices and lessons learned to assist all countries in recovering from this crisis.Domestically, we commit to engaging our respective relevant national authorities on these issues.  Internationally, we will remain in regular contact and encourage other states to support this initiative.Endorsed by: Australia, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, Indonesia, Italy, Mexico, Morocco, Peru, Republic of Korea, Singapore, South Africa, Turkey and the United Kingdom"
296,Foreign ministers from 15 countries agree on key principles to keep transportation links and supply chains open,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/04/foreign-ministers-from-13-countries-agree-on-key-principles-to-keep-transportation-links-and-supply-chains-open.html,4/17/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and counterparts from Australia, Brazil, France, Germany, Indonesia, Italy, Mexico, Morocco, Peru, Republic of Korea, Singapore, South Africa, Turkey and the United Kingdom, today took part in the sixth call of the Ministerial Coordination Group on COVID19 (MCGC) to reiterate the need to maintain essential global links as the COVID19 pandemic continues to evolve.The group agreed on a Joint Declaration outlining a series of practical actions and strongly advocated for other countries to take similar steps. South Korea led a conversation on best practices for emerging from the COVID19 crisis.The ministers committed to work together to coordinate their countries’ public health, travel, trade, economic and financial measures in order to minimize disruptions and to ensure a strong recovery that puts people first.They also recognized and committed to address the particular challenges faced by vulnerable countries, including the resilience of their health systems and their access to medical supplies and personal protective equipment.The group also stressed the importance of maintaining the flow of essential goods and supplies and the need to preserve maritime routes and air bridges.Finally, the ministers agreed to continue working closely with their respective domestic airports and airlines to ensure sufficient capacity to allow stranded travellers to return home."
297,Minister Gould participates in meeting on Food Security and Nutrition during the COVID-19 crisis,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/04/minister-gould-to-participate-in-meeting-on-food-security-and-nutrition-during-the-covid-19-crisis.html,4/17/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable Karina Gould, Minister of International Development, participated in a meeting of the Group of Friends on Food and Nutrition Security via video conference today.The meeting, convened by Canada, Italy, Brazil, and Egypt, is an opportunity for UN member states and international organizations to discuss measures to mitigate the impacts of COVID19 on food availability and supply, especially in developing countries.The COVID19 pandemic may have significant and lasting impacts on food security and nutrition for the world’s poorest and most vulnerable people. Canada is closely monitoring the potential impacts of the pandemic, and is particularly concerned about restrictions on food distribution, trade and the international movement of farm labour.Canada is working with international partners such as the United Nations, the G20, and International Financial Institutions on efforts to mitigate the COVID19 pandemic’s impact on nutrition and food security. These efforts include cooperating with governments, international organizations and other partners to provide funding for development and humanitarian organizations that are responding to immediate needs and helping to build a more resilient and sustainable food system for the longer term."
298,Joint statement of the Alliance for multilateralism,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/04/joint-statement-of-the-alliance-for-multilateralism.html,4/16/20,2020, statements,"We need strong global cooperation and solidarity to fight COVID19The COVID19 pandemic is a wakeup call for multilateralism. Trying to cope with the immediate devastating effects of the virus, nations have turned toward imposing unprecedented executive measures, including closing borders. However, a virus knows no borders. All countries are affected. We must remain united in our shared humanity. The fight against this global pandemic, which is taking so many lives and challenging our societies, requires more and enhanced international cooperation and worldwide solidarity.Containing and countering this pandemic calls for a cooperative, transparent, sciencebased and coordinated global response. We are concerned by the serious threat to all countries, particularly developing and least developed countries, countries in situations of conflict and postconflict countries, where health systems are less prepared, as well as the particular risk faced by refugees and displaced persons.We realise that the pandemic poses a serious threat to the essential right to the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health. At the same time, in a situation of emergency, it is of utmost importance to maintain principles of democracy and the rule of law. We call on all governments to strictly ensure that any measures taken to counter the pandemic must be necessary and proportionate, pursue legitimate purposes, be limited in time, nondiscriminatory and respectful of international law, including human rights law. Adopting a genderresponsive approach will be essential. With respect to nondiscriminatory policies, we support the statement of the High Commissioner for Human rights, issued on March 6, recalling that human dignity and rights should remain at the core of the response to the crisis, and that responses should be holistic and peoplecentric.The COVID19 crisis has demonstrated just how crucial multilateral institutions are to our collective health, prosperity, and security. We fully support the World Health Organization in leading the global public health response, as well as the efforts of the wider United Nations, the World Bank Group, and other international and regional organizations as they come together in a coordinated, coherent whole to respond to the wider socioeconomic impacts of the crisis.We strongly support the appeal by United Nations SecretaryGeneral António Guterres for an immediate global ceasefire. It is time to stop armed conflict and immediately halt fighting and devote all our energy and resources to fighting the world’s common challenge – the coronavirus. We express our gratitude to health and humanitarian workers for their indispensable role in saving lives and commit to preserve, and advocate for, the space they need to deliver on their lifesaving mandate. We thank civil society leaders for their determination to protect the most vulnerable.  We support efforts to urgently address the humanitarian dimension of the COVID19 outbreak. We are ready to play our part in responding to the Global Humanitarian Response Plan for COVID19 by the United Nations. We commend the UN Secretary General for launching a COVID19 response and recovery fund for low and middleincome countries to tackle the health emergency, address social and economic consequences of the crisis and assist in the recovery and support efforts to strengthen coordination and collaboration across response efforts.The health challenge: The focus must now be on the most immediate medical, political and economic challenges raised by the pandemic. We support the United Nations’ call for shared responsibility and global solidarity in response to the impacts of COVID19, and especially the role of WHO in the coordination of the health response to the epidemic. We seek to ensure sufficient financing to address the pandemic, including strengthening of health systems globally. We support working towards a response that delivers universal access to treatment and vaccines, when they are ready.  Fair and just distribution will be key. We propose to focus on the universal provision of an eventual treatment and a vaccine and recognize immunization against COVID19 as a global public good.The financial challenge: We will seek to ensure adequate financing to contain the pandemic and protect people, with particular attention to the most vulnerable. We commit, on a voluntary basis, to provide resources in support of the WHO’s COVID19 Strategic Preparedness and Response Plan , as well as the health organizations involved in identifying and scaling up the tools needed to fight the pandemic: the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness and Innovation (CEPI), Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance UNITAID and the Global Fund, and call upon all countries, international organizations, the private sector, philanthropies, and individuals to contribute to these efforts. We will continue to work with all stakeholders to assist those countries whose economies are most at risk due to the pandemic and to improve resilience.The information challenge: Disinformation puts peoples’ lives at risk and is an obstacle to effective public health responses. We call on all states to provide and promote accessible, timely and factual information, to continue to protect and promote access to free and independent media and to support the free exchange of reliable and accurate information. We support the efforts of the WHO and internet intermediaries to step up efforts in detecting and addressing misinformation and prioritizing trustworthy information on their platforms. We commend journalists and other media workers on their work that serves to keep societies informed credibly, to protect the health of communities and to prevent false or misleading information. We express concern at the damage which can and has been done by the spreading of false or manipulated information intended to deliberately deceive, including disinformation about the virus outbreak and response. We need to push back disinformation and propaganda.  Access to reliable information and to free and independent media is crucial to foster transparency and accountability, combat misinformation and contribute to public confidence and support for government efforts to combat the pandemic. We will work with public health authorities to ensure access to timely and accurate information. We are concerned by attempts to use this crisis to put in place undue restrictions or to deny societies critical information on the spread of the disease. We must work together to amplify evidencebased messaging.The prevention challenge: We must also address the longterm consequences of this crisis. The world must prepare better for the next pandemic. We will lend our support to strengthening health systems globally, including through supporting the WHO, other UN agencies as well as other international health organizations. The COVID pandemic should be an opportunity to strengthen the global health security system. In order to reduce the risk of future pandemics we should promote the ""One Health"" approach as outlined by the WHO. We support efforts by the WHO to assess gaps with a view to enhancing pandemic preparedness and response, and further stress the urgency of ensuring a healthy environment, achieving universal health coverage, and promoting effective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels. The multilateral system needs to adapt and reform to ‘recover better’. We call upon the WHO, IMF, WBG and all relevant UN agencies and international health organizations to further step up coordination of their actions, including with the private sector, to support emerging and developing countries in facing the health, economic, and social shocks following the COVID19 outbreak. We support the efforts of the WHO to assess gaps in pandemic preparedness with a view to establish a global initiative on pandemic preparedness and response.The economic challenge: The continued efficient flow of medical supplies, agricultural products, and other goods and services across borders will be critical for effective crisis response, to help minimize global supply and demand shocks, and to enable timely economic recovery. We will therefore work to minimize disruptions to cross border trade and global supply chains, and taking only targeted, proportionate, transparent, and temporary emergency measures and only those consistent with our WTO obligations.As we strive to ‘recover better’ our common roadmap remains the 2030 Agenda with its 17 Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris Agreement. We welcome the unanimous adoption of UNGA resolution 74/270 on Global solidarity to fight the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID19) at the initiative of Ghana, Indonesia, Liechtenstein, Norway, Singapore and Switzerland.Faced with the unprecedented challenge posed by the COVID19 pandemic, we must all join forces to contain, counter and prevent its spread. The Alliance for Multilateralism is committed to support the UN, WHO, and other international organizations in their efforts toward this end. We are only as strong as the weakest link in the global health system. Only by building a more sustainable and resilient world through enhanced international cooperation can we overcome this threat to humanity.H.E. FM of the Argentine Republic, Mr. Felipe SoláH.E. FM of the Kingdom of Belgium, Mr. Philippe GoffinH.E. FM of Canada, Mr. FrançoisPhilippe ChampagneH.E. FM of the Republic of Chile, Mr. Teodoro Ribera NeumannH.E. FM of the Republic of Costa Rica, Mr. Rodolfo SolanoH.E. FM of the Dominican Republic, Mr.  Miguel VargasH.E. FM of the Republic of Estonia, Mr. Urmas ReinsaluH.E. FM of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, Mr. Gedu AndargachevH.E. FM of the Republic of Finland, Mr. Pekka HaavistoH.E. JeanYves Le Drian, Minister of Europe and Foreign Affairs of the French RepublicH.E. Mr. Heiko Maas, Foreign Minister of the Federal Republic of GermanyH.E. FM of the Republic of Indonesia, Ms. Retno MarsudiH.E. FM of Ireland, Mr. Simon CoveneyH.E. FM of the Italian Republic, Mr. Luigi di MaioH.E. FM of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, Mr. Ayman SafadiH.E. FM of the United Mexican States, Mr. Marcelo Ebrard CasaubonH.E. FM of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Mr. Stef BlokH.E. FM of the Kingdom of Norway, Ms. Ine Eriksen SøreideH.E. FM of the Republic of Peru, Mr. Gustavo MezaCuadra VelásquezH.E. FM of the Republic of Singapore, Mr. Vivian BalakrishnanH.E. FM of the Republic of South Africa, Ms. Grace PandorH.E. FM of the Kingdom of Spain, Ms. Arancha Gonzales LayaH.E. FM of the Kingdom of Sweden, Ms. Ann LindeH.E. FM of the Swiss Confederation, Mr. Ignazio Cassis"
299,Joint statement by Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and the European Union’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy regarding international collaboration in addressing COVID-19,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/04/joint-statement-by-canadas-minister-of-foreign-affairs-and-the-european-unions-high-representative-for-foreign-affairs-and-security-policy-regardin.html,4/14/20,2020, statements,"Building on our strategic partnership, shared values and commitment to multilateralism, Canada and the European Union (EU) are working intensively together to address the significant consular, public health and economic challenges of the COVID19 crisis.Getting our citizens home safely. Our peopletopeople links are the foundation of our relationship. Canada, the EU and EU member states have assisted each other’s stranded nationals to return home from our respective territories and from around the world. We are facilitating transit through Canadian and EU airports, providing access to spare capacity on our respective repatriation flights and advocating for the maintenance of commercial air links between Europe and North America.Developing effective vaccines, therapies and diagnostics. Collaboration in international research and innovation is essential in the global fight against the COVID19 pandemic. The EU and Canada are committed to increasing research and innovation funding for vaccines, therapies and diagnostics, to leverage digital technologies, and to strengthen scientific international cooperation. We support the leadership of the Global Research Collaboration for Infectious Disease Preparedness network and the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) in international efforts to develop vaccines. We also support initiatives on data sharing for all COVID19related funded research at the global level, such as the UNESCO plea on data sharing and open science, as well as the open letter to publishers on open access to COVID19 research, signed in March by the European Commission and Canada and 14 other countries.On direct funding, Canada recently announced a further contribution to CEPI of Can$40 million, while the EU has undertaken several emergency initiatives, including two emergency calls for research and innovation projects: €48 million in funding for the launch of 18 new Horizon 2020 research and innovation projects, and a €45million call of the Innovative Medicines Initiative (IMI).Protecting the flow of vital supplies across borders. The Canadian and EU economies are highly intertwined. We are working together to make sure that critical materials aimed at protecting our health workers and citizens can continue to cross borders. We are reviewing our own emergency measures and are pressing the international community to maintain open and connected supply chains to facilitate the flow of essential goods, especially medical equipment to combat the pandemic. We remain committed to a transparent, rulesbased trading system more generally, as a means to support the resilience of supply chains to continue to function in this crisis and to expedite the economic recovery that will follow.Strengthening the global response. The EU and Canada are reinforcing relevant international organizations, with the World Health Organization leading the global response, and are assisting developing countries and nongovernmental organizations in the fight against COVID19. To date, Canada has announced over Can$160 million in direct support of global efforts to address the COVID19 outbreak, while the EU will secure €15.6 billion to help partner countries to face COVID impacts. In order to step up global efforts to address the COVID19 outbreak, we are engaged in actively supporting an international pledging conference in cooperation with WHO and its Global Preparedness Monitoring Board, and in assisting developing countries and nongovernmental organizations in the fight against COVID19. The EU and Canada recall that both the UN and our own autonomous sanctions regimes provide for humanitarian exceptions; the application of these exceptions should enable humanitarian assistance to reach the most vulnerable populations.Countering disinformation. Canada and the EU are longstanding partners in promoting security and prosperity around the world. Together, we are working through the G7 Rapid Response Mechanism, which is linked to the EU’s Rapid Alert System, to identify and respond to foreign threats to our democracies, including the spread of disinformation and myths about the virus and efforts to undermine our unity. We underline the need to defend media freedom and the free exchange of information more than ever during such times of crisis.Canada and the EU underline the value in bilateral and multilateral cooperation as our citizens, and the global community, face unprecedented challenges to public health and economic stability. We will continue to act, in mutually supportive ways, to address the crisis and then to move beyond it."
300,"Joint statement by Canadian and Jamaican Foreign Ministers, following their chairing of a historic meeting of the UN Group of Friends on SDG Financing",https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/04/joint-statement-by-canadian-and-jamaican-foreign-ministers-following-their-chairing-of-a-historic-meeting-of-the-un-group-of-friends-on-sdg-financing.html,4/11/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Senator the Honourable Kamina Johnson Smith, Jamaica’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, today issued the following statement:“On Friday April 10th, we convened an extraordinary video conference bringing together Ambassadors from across the entire membership of the United Nations with highlevel representatives from the UN, G20, IMF, World Bank Group and OECD to engage in the first truly global discussion on managing the socioeconomic and financial impacts of COVID19. We thank the more than 300 participants who attended.“We were struck by the unity and common purpose of all to overcome the unprecedented challenge before us and the resolve to take the necessary actions required to help contain the COVID19 pandemic, conscious that the depth of the economic contraction and the speed of recovery are not yet known.“We welcomed the commitment by the UN, G20, IMF, World Bank Group, OECD and individual countries to coordinate their actions to ensure an effective response, with all participants recognizing that no one country or organization can tackle the challenge of COVID19 on their own.“We were also reminded of the particular vulnerabilities many countries suffer. Small island developing states and many other developing countries in Africa and parts of Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean are confronted with a multipronged challenge, including a reliance on imported food; logistics and transportation hubs whose operations have been curtailed; preexisting high levels of indebtedness; a loss of primary revenue sources; and the need to use scarce foreign currency reserves to procure essential medical supplies.“We discussed the need to take urgent action to ensure that global supply chains remain open, and that the flows of remittances are able to continue with minimal disruption and at reduced costs. We also stressed the crucial importance of supporting our private sectors through these difficult times as they are the primary source of jobs and livelihoods. No economic recovery will be possible without it.“Canada and Jamaica stand more committed than ever to ensure that countries are provided the support they need to overcome these complex challenges and will use every avenue available to us to advance this cause. Today’s meeting represents an important step toward this shared objective.“As this pandemic affects everyone, everywhere, the world needs to come together to address and mitigate the human, social, and economic challenges posed by COVID19.”Related linksMinister Champagne to copreside meeting with UN member states on COVID19"
301,Statement in support of global ceasefire,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/04/statement-in-support-of-global-ceasefire.html,4/10/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and the Honourable Karina Gould, Minister of International Development, today issued the following statement:“Canada fully supports the UN SecretaryGeneral’s appeal for an immediate global ceasefire in all corners of the world, in light of the COVID19 pandemic. Now is the time to put armed conflict on lockdown, to protect the most vulnerable and to focus our efforts together in the fight against this virus. We are proud to have led 58 countries in supporting the SecretaryGeneral’s appeal, and we encourage all countries to do the same.“As COVID19 continues to spread, Canada is particularly concerned about the plight of women, children and vulnerable civilians caught in armed conflict and humanitarian crises. We know that these populations are already disproportionately affected by armed conflict, that they are more vulnerable to economic and food insecurity and that they are at even greater risk now because of this pandemic. This is why a global ceasefire is so important.“Canada is working hard to prioritize the protection of the most vulnerable in the response to the pandemic, including through our most recent funding of the UN system and international partners. We offer Canada’s full support to, and stand in solidarity with, those on the front lines of the response and the civilians and vulnerable populations in conflict, who require protection now more than ever. During this unprecedented global crisis, we also wish to reiterate Canada’s full commitment to multilateralism and the rulesbased international order.”"
302,Minister Champagne to co-preside meeting with UN member states on COVID-19,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/04/minister-champagne-to-co-preside-meeting-with-un-member-states-on-covid-19.html,4/10/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and his Jamaican counterpart, Kamina Johnson Smith, will copreside an extraordinary meeting of the United Nations Group of Friends of Sustainable Development Goals Financing today via video conference.This meeting will be an opportunity for UN member states and international organizations to discuss ways to mitigate the economic impacts of the COVID19 pandemic, especially on developing countries.The meeting will also allow representatives of the UN, International Monetary Fund, World Bank Group, International Finance Corporation and the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development to debrief participants on their organizations’ responses to COVID19."
303,Statement by Minister of Foreign Affairs on release of report by Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons on chemical attacks in Syria,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/04/statement-by-minister-of-foreign-affairs-on-release-of-report-by-organisation-for-the-prohibition-of-chemical-weapons-on-chemical-attacks-in-syria.html,4/10/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement:“On April 8, the Investigation and Identification Team of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons [OPCW] released its first report. In the report, the team identifies the Syrian Arab Air Force as the perpetrator of several chemical weapon attacks carried out in Syria in March 2017. The overwhelming majority of victims of these attacks were civilians.“We condemn the Assad regime’s repeated and morally reprehensible attacks on the people of Syria, in particular, its use of chemical weapons. Any use of chemical weapons is an abhorrent breach of international law. Canada wholly supports efforts to ensure that perpetrators of such crimes are held to account.“As a state party to the Chemical Weapons Convention [CWC], Syria has an obligation to fully eliminate its chemical weapons program. It has repeatedly failed to do so. We demand that the Assad regime declare its entire chemical weapons stockpile without delay so that it may be verifiably destroyed, as required under the CWC.“Canada is committed to upholding the international rulesbased order, including the prohibition on chemical weapons, and stands firmly against those who seek to undermine that order. The use of chemical weapons is unequivocally a war crime, and those who commit such crimes must be brought to justice without delay.“Canada fully supports the Investigation and Identification Team and stands by the legitimacy and credibility of its work. This report alone cannot possibly provide adequate closure to the victims of these abhorrent crimes. However, it is our hope that through continued support of the work of the OPCW and other such accountability efforts, Canada and its partners in the international community can work toward the realization of a world free of chemical weapons.”Quick factsThe OPCW is an independent, treatybased body established in 1997 to implement the CWC. With over 190 states parties, the CWC is one of the world’s most widely subscribed treaties. It bans all chemical weapons and oversees their destruction in a verifiable manner.The OPCW is the only multilateral institution charged with eradicating an entire class of weapons of mass destruction. To date, it has verified the elimination of 97% of the world’s declared chemical weapons.The Joint Investigative Mechanism, created by the United Nations and the OPCW, had previously concluded that the Government of Syria used chemical weapons against its own people. The mechanism was dissolved when Russia used its veto power in the United Nations Security Council to block its renewal.On June 27, 2018, the Fourth Special Session of the Conference of the States Parties (to the CWC) decided to establish the Investigation and Identification Team to identify those responsible for chemical weapons use in Syria.Associated linksSyria and the OPCWOPCW releases first report by Investigation and Identification TeamCanada condemns alleged chemical weapons attack in SyriaCanada welcomes OPCW actions to counter impunity for use of chemical weaponsCanada calls for Syria to be held accountable for its use of chemical weaponsCanadian sanctions related to Syria"
304,Readout: Minister Ng speaks with India’s Minister of Railways and Minister of Commerce and Industry,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/04/readout-minister-ng-speaks-with-indias-minister-of-railways-and-minister-of-commerce-and-industry.html,4/10/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, yesterday spoke with Piyush Goyal, India’s Minister of Railways and Minister of Commerce and Industry.During their call, the ministers provided an update on the steps their countries are taking to minimize disruptions to critical global supply chains related to essential medical products and pharmaceutical supplies amid the COVID19 pandemic.They agreed that it is critical to ensure the continued crossborder flow of medical supplies to minimize the spread of the virus.She elaborated on Canada’s plans to increase its production of critical medical supplies to meet domestic needs and contribute to the international COVID19 response.Minister Ng also thanked Minister Goyal for India’s assistance in helping to bring Canadians home during the pandemic."
305,Minister of Foreign Affairs to hold media teleconference,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/04/minister-of-foreign-affairs-to-hold-media-teleconference.html,4/9/20,2020, media advisories," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, will provide an update on the terms of the light armoured vehicles contract and Canada’s export review process. 
Date: Thursday, April 9, 2020Time: 4:30 pm ETNotes for media: Media representatives wishing to participate in the teleconference should dial 18882650903 or 6139607527. The access code is 2378231#."
306,"Canada improves terms of light armored vehicles contract, putting in place a new robust permits review process",https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/04/canada-improves-terms-of-light-armored-vehicles-contract-putting-in-place-a-new-robust-permits-review-process.html,4/9/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and the Honourable Bill Morneau, Minister of Finance, today issued the following statement:“Canadians expect that the contracts negotiated by their government on their behalf are in line with their values and Canadian law.“In 2014, a contract was signed between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Canadian Commercial Corporation, a Crown corporation, for the sale of light armoured vehicles manufactured by General Dynamics Land SystemsCanada. This contract is governed exclusively by Saudi law and subject to the Saudi judicial system.“Under the agreement signed in 2014, the terms of the contract were strictly confidential, preventing the government from discussing the contents with Canadians.“The government undertook negotiations to improve the terms of the contract. Today, we are announcing that, as a result of these negotiations, we have been able to secure significant improvements to the contract.“This includes now being able to communicate more transparently with Canadians about certain terms of the contract.“We can confirm that the cancellation of this $14billion contract—or even the mere disclosure of any of its terms—could have resulted in billions of dollars in damages to the Government of Canada, with potential damages amounting to the full value of the contract. This would have put the jobs of thousands of Canadians at risk, not only in Southwestern Ontario but also across the entire defence industry supply chain, which includes hundreds of small and medium enterprises.“Additionally, under the improved agreement, we have ensured that Canadians’ exposure to financial risk will be eliminated where future export permits are delayed or denied if there is an infringement of the permit’s end use assurances—which ensure that the vehicles are used only for the stated purpose.“In addition, in order to ensure that the government always upholds the highest standards with respect to human rights, we are announcing the creation of an armslength advisory panel of experts who will review best practices regarding arms exports by state parties to the United Nations Arms Trade Treaty [ATT] to ensure that our system is as robust as possible.“Canada officially joined the ATT on September 17, 2019. With the passage of Bill C47, the implementing legislation, Canada now has one of the most robust legal applications of this UN treaty in the world.“Under our law, Canadian goods cannot be exported where there is a substantial risk that they would be used to commit or to facilitate serious violations of international humanitarian law, international human rights law or serious acts of genderbased violence.“We need to ensure that we are always ready to strengthen available tools to conduct proper due diligence on all exports, as Canadians expect.“To that end, we are also announcing that we will spearhead multilateral discussions on means to strengthen international compliance with the ATT, toward the establishment of an international inspection regime.“Following the conclusion of the review of export permits to Saudi Arabia conducted by officials from Global Affairs Canada—including those related to this contract—we have now begun reviewing permit applications on a casebycase basis. As always, we will ensure that they comply with the aforementioned legal requirements under Canadian law and the ATT.”"
307,Human rights implications of COVID-19,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/04/human-rights-implications-of-covid-19.html,4/8/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and the Honourable Karina Gould, Minister of International Development, today issued the following statement:“The spread of COVID19 has demanded that governments around the world take unprecedented steps to protect their citizens. In more than 90 countries, including Canada, this has meant restricting personal movement in an effort to limit the transmission of the disease.“We are concerned about the risk of discrimination, excessive use of force and violations of fundamental rights and freedoms that have already occurred in some countries during the implementation of lockdowns and mandatory isolation. While the need to protect public health is vital, it is imperative to ensure that these measures are not used to undermine the fundamental civil liberties and human rights of all people.“Promoting and protecting these essential liberties and rights is, and will remain, a priority for the Government of Canada.“To that end, we urge all states to ensure that restrictions on movement and peaceful assembly are grounded in legitimate public health concerns and are not used to infringe on the people’s essential freedoms. While we are all called upon to sacrifice some parts of our normal lives, we must remain vigilant that this requirement is not abused or taken advantage of.“We must all do what we can to prevent the tragedy of this pandemic from being compounded by allowing it to be exploited to persecute vulnerable communities. Over the course of this crisis, the Government of Canada will work to ensure that vulnerable and marginalized communities, including refugees, internally displaced people and migrants, indigenous, LGBTQ2I+, and religious and ethnic minority communities, are not victimized under the cover of public health.“Furthermore, we recognize that isolating at home can be very difficult for many families. For people facing domestic and sexual and genderbased violence, COVID19 has created a perfect storm of isolation, stress and fear. Genderbased and childprotection services are essential and lifesaving, and we urge governments around the world to prioritize and integrate these critical services in all responses related to COVID19.“Canada has taken a gender based approach to its response both domestically and internationally. Canada also took concrete steps to address domestic violence and is joining the United Nation SecretaryGeneral’s call on domestic violence.“Protecting public health and respecting human rights are not mutually exclusive. In fact, they cannot be separated as they go hand in hand toward ensuring the health, safety and security of our communities and our countries. Together, we can respond to the COVID19 pandemic swiftly and decisively, but also with compassion, inclusivity and respect for the fundamental rights of everyone.”"
308,Readout: Minister of Foreign Affairs speaks with his counterpart from the U.K. ,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/04/readout-minister-of-foreign-affairs-speaks-with-his-counterpart-from-the-uk.html,4/8/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today spoke with the United Kingdom’s Foreign Secretary and First Secretary of State, Dominic Raab.Minister Champagne started the conversation by extending a message of support on behalf of Canada to Prime Minister Johnson, to his family and to the British people at this difficult time and wished him a full and quick recovery.They discussed the COVID19 pandemic and the critical need to keep supply chains open and intact during this ongoing crisis in order to ensure the crossborder flow of essential goods, notably medical supplies and personal protective equipment.They stressed the importance of providing consular assistance to their citizens and the need to maintain aerial bridges between the two countries to permit the return of travellers from abroad.Lastly, they reiterated the importance of strong coordination and cooperation between Canada and the United Kingdom, leading global COVID19 initiatives together, and committed to remain in close touch as the global pandemic continues to evolve."
309,Readout: Minister of Foreign Affairs speaks with U.S. Secretary of State,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/04/readout-minister-of-foreign-affairs-speaks-with-us-secretary-of-state.html,4/6/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today spoke with Mike Pompeo, U.S. Secretary of State.They discussed the COVID19 pandemic and the importance of maintaining strong coordination and cooperation between Canada and the United States.They addressed the critical need to ensure the flow of essential goods and to keep supply chains intact during this ongoing crisis, especially for medical supplies and personal protective equipment.Minister Champagne stressed the importance of providing consular assistance and the need to safely return Canadian travellers home from abroad, including those aboard cruise ships, as the pandemic continues to evolve.He also expressed sincere gratitude to Secretary Pompeo for his support in helping Canadians return home safely, including those on cruise ships Zaandam, Rotterdam and Coral Princess."
310,Backgrounder - Canada provides funding to address COVID-19 pandemic,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/04/backgrounder---canada-provides-funding-to-address-covid-19-pandemic.html,4/5/20,2020, backgrounders,"The Government of Canada announced that $159.5 million in funding will be allocated to support global efforts to address the COVID19 outbreak.The funding is being distributed as follows.$84.5 million to international partners to support humanitarian appealsWorld Health Organization (WHO)  leading and coordinating global efforts against the COVID19 pandemic, supporting countries to prevent, detect and respond to the pandemic.United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees  protecting refugees, displaced people and their host communities during this pandemic and boosting preparedness, prevention and response activities to address refugees’ immediate public health needs prompted by COVID19.World Food Programme  providing immediate food assistance to people in need and supporting governments’ preparedness and response efforts.UNICEF  supporting children and families affected by COVID19 by providing lifesaving information about handwashing and sanitation, supplying personal protective equipment and distributing emergency education kits.International Organization for Migration  focusing on the need for a migrantinclusive response to COVID19 by closely working with the WHO and other UN Migration Network member agencies and partners and working to ensure the integration of migration health concerns across the UN system.United Nations Population Fund  supporting health systems by supplying personal protective equipment for healthcare workers and supporting efforts to learn more about the virus and its impact to better serve the most vulnerable.International Committee of the Red Cross  focusing its efforts on continuing and increasing its support to public health services in contexts affected by armed conflict and violence.International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies  coordinating with all national societies to support them through the COVID19 pandemic by providing monitoring services, issuing advisories, supporting the prepositioning of personal protective equipment for highrisk activities, conducting scenario planning and analyzing risk, and other actions.United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East  focusing its response on urgent healthcare needs of atrisk Palestinian refugees in the West Bank and Gaza, Jordan, Lebanon and Syria, as well as implementing improved cleaning and hygiene measures at all its facilities.United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs – CountryBased Pooled Fund  enabling a flexible and timely countrylevel response to emerging needs related to COVID19, including support to international and national nongovernmental organizations.Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations – supporting livelihood assistance to vulnerable households affected by the ongoing pandemic, and helping minimize disruptions to the food supply chains.$40 million to the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations for COVID19 vaccine developmentThe Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) is at the forefront of international efforts to develop vaccines for COVID19. This contribution supports the commitment made by G7 leaders on March 15 to increase coordinated vaccine research efforts, including through CEPI. Canada has previously contributed $14 million to CEPI, as announced by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau at the G20 summits in Hamburg (2017) and Buenos Aires (2018).$30 million to address countryspecific requests for assistanceA number of countries have made specific financial and inkind requests to Canada for assistance to respond to COVID19. This funding will be set aside to respond to these countries’ specific needs and support their national priorities. Tailored solutions and responses will be designed in partnership and solidarity with each requesting country.$5 million to global health security capacity buildingThis will reinforce and amplify global healthsecurity capacity building initiatives implemented through ’s Weapons Threat Reduction Program and meaningfully support countries and regions in the fight against COVID19."
311,Canada’s support for international efforts to fight the COVID-19 pandemic,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/04/canadas-support-for-international-efforts-to-fight-the-covid-19-pandemic.html,4/5/20,2020, news releases," The COVID19 pandemic is a global threat that does not recognize borders and can only be overcome through coordinated action all around the world. Canada continues to contribute to international efforts to address the ongoing pandemic by providing urgent and necessary funding, including to support those who are most vulnerable.Today, the Honourable Karina Gould, Minister of International Development, announced the allocation of $159.5 million in funding to support international efforts to fight the COVID19 pandemic. This investment includes $50 million announced by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau earlier in March.As the COVID19 health crisis evolves, Canada recognizes that for people in developing countries—particularly women and children—the pandemic may have significant and lasting negative impacts on their health, prosperity and opportunities. Canadian development and humanitarian NGOs have been contributing to the COVID19 global response and will continue to be supported going forward.Canada’s actions aim to support partners on the front lines who are working to prevent, detect and respond to COVID19. Canada is answering global and bilateral requests for urgent assistance, including for vaccine development, and global healthsecurity capacity building. Canada’s investment also aims to ensure that its international partners can maintain their services for vulnerable populations where possible, including support for sexual and reproductive health and rights.Canada’s investment in these programs is in line with its feminist international assistance approach, since this global crisis has the potential to exacerbate inequalities and reverse development gains. This is especially true for the women and children who are already among the world’s poorest and most vulnerable citizens and who may now be expected to take on additional caregiving responsibilities in their families and communities.Canada will continue to look for opportunities to leverage innovation in response to the COVID19 pandemic by encouraging traditional partners to use creative solutions, and by working with new partners to drive innovative approaches. Canada will also continue to support global efforts to develop a vaccine in order to safeguard the health and security of Canadians and people around the world.Details of the funding allocation can be found in the backgrounder linked to below."
312,Readout: Minister of Foreign Affairs speaks with Chinese counterpart,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/04/readout-minister-of-foreign-affairs-speaks-with-chinese-counterpart.html,4/2/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today spoke with Wang Yi, China’s State Councillor and Foreign Minister.The ministers discussed COVID19 and the importance of maintaining cooperation and open dialogue between Canada and China as the pandemic continues to evolve.Minister Champagne asked for the collaboration of the Chinese government in facilitating the necessary procedural support to ensure the smooth export of essential goods and supplies procured by Canada during this ongoing health crisis.As always, Minister Champagne raised the cases of Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor.The ministers agreed that this is a time for the international community to come together to save lives and they committed to keeping the lines of communication open."
313,Minister Champagne to participate in NATO Foreign Ministers’ Meeting,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/04/minister-champagne-to-participate-in-nato-foreign-ministers-meeting.html,4/1/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced that he will participate in the NATO Foreign Ministers’ Meeting on April 2, 2020. The meeting will be conducted by video conference.Together, the ministers will discuss the transatlantic security implications of the COVID19 crisis, including the importance of coordinating the international response.The meeting will also be an important opportunity for the ministers to discuss NATO’s broader engagement in the Middle East and North Africa, in addition to issues relative to arms control, disarmament and nonproliferation.This will be the first NATO Foreign Ministers’ Meeting with the participation of 30 Allies, as the Alliance welcomed North Macedonia as a full member on March 27, 2020."
314,The Minister of Foreign Affairs congratulates Greta Bossenmaier on her appointment to the group supporting NATO’s Reflection Process,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/03/the-minister-of-foreign-affairs-congratulates-greta-bossenmaier-on-her-appointment-to-the-group-supporting-natos-reflection-process.html,3/31/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement:“I congratulate Greta Bossenmaier on her appointment by the NATO Secretary General, Jens Stoltenberg, as a member of the group that will support NATO’s reflection process.“Ms. Bossenmaier possesses a wealth of expertise honed over her decadeslong career in Canada’s public service, with senior roles in defence and foreign affairs. She served most recently as National Security and Intelligence Advisor to the Prime Minister.“Her vast knowledge of the world’s current and future defence challenges will help shape important discussions, aimed at ensuring that NATO is best positioned to respond to an evolving security environment.“The establishment of the reflection process follows last December’s NATO Leaders Meeting in London when Secretary General Stoltenberg was asked to lead a forwardlooking process to strengthen the Alliance’s political dimension.”"
315,Statement on Multi-party Interim Arrangement for appealing trade disputes through WTO,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/03/statement-on-multi-party-interim-arrangement-for-appealing-trade-disputes-through-wto.html,3/27/20,2020, statements," The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, today issued the following statement:“The COVID19 pandemic is a global challenge affecting the way businesses operate in Canada and around the world. During this extraordinary time, the Government of Canada is taking strong action to provide Canadian businesses with support and stability, including by strengthening the rulesbased trading system, with the World Trade Organization [WTO] at its core.“Following the statement by ministers at Davos, Switzerland, on the margins of the World Economic Forum, Canada and 15 other members of the WTO have decided to put in place the Multiparty Interim Arrangement [MPIA] for allowing appeals of panel reports in trade disputes.“This arrangement will be in place on an interim basis until the WTO Appellate Body is fully operational. It will be open to all WTO members wishing to join. Building on the work of Canada and the EU, which led to the July 2019 CanadaEU bilateral interim appeal arbitration arrangement, the MPIA will restore access to a binding dispute settlement system, including the possibility of an appeal, to resolve any trade dispute between participating countries.“It demonstrates a willingness on the part of our international partners to ensure predictability and stability in the markets, which will help businesses around the world navigate this uncertain time.“Canada will continue to work with all interested WTO members to find a permanent multilateral solution to resolve the Appellate Body impasse.” Associated productsMinisterial statement on Multiparty Interim ArrangementMultiparty Interim Arrangement"
316,Readout: Minister of Foreign Affairs continues to coordinate with international partners on COVID-19,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/03/readout-minister-of-foreign-affairs-continues-to-coordinate-with-international-partners-on-covid-19.html,3/27/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, organized a call with his counterparts from countries affected by COVID19, including Australia, Brazil, Germany, Italy, Morocco, Peru, Singapore, Turkey and the United Kingdom. The EU’s High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy also joined the call.Together, they reiterated the importance of providing consular assistance to their citizens and the need to safely return travellers home from abroad, including those aboard cruise ships, in the context of increased air travel restrictions and limited commercial flight options.They also stressed the importance of maintaining the flow of essential goods and supplies and the need to preserve maritime routes and air bridges.Lastly, they underscored the priority of vaccine research and development as well as the need to support developing countries and vulnerable healthcare systems as the COVID19 crisis continues to evolve around the world."
317,Statement on joint international effort to ensure supply chain connectivity amid COVID-19 pandemic,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/03/statement-on-joint-international-effort-to-ensure-supply-chain-connectivity-amid-covid-19-pandemic.html,3/25/20,2020, statements," The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, today issued the following statement:“The COVID19 pandemic is a global challenge affecting the way businesses all over the world operate. Our efforts to control and mitigate the spread of the virus have resulted in travel restrictions and temporary border closures, and they could have further implications for Canadian businesses operating in the global marketplace.“Small and mediumsized businesses are the backbone of the Canadian economy. In these times of uncertainty, it is more important than ever that the Government of Canada take action to ensure Canadian companies are supported and protected so that our economy stays strong and Canadians remain healthy and safe.“Today, Canada, alongside our international partners Australia, Brunei, Chile, Myanmar, New Zealand and Singapore, committed to facilitate the crossborder movement of goods, services and people by maintaining open and connected supply chains throughout the pandemic.“Coordinating with our international partners is critical to ensuring that Canadian businesses of all sizes can continue to deliver essential goods to people and places that need them.”"
318,Readout: Minister Champagne participates in G7 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting ,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/03/readout-minister-champagne-participates-in-g7-foreign-ministers-meeting.html,3/25/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, participated in a G7 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting by videoconference today. United States Secretary of State Mike Pompeo hosted counterparts from Canada, Germany, France, Italy, Japan, the U.K. as well as the EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy.They discussed the COVID19 pandemic and its impact on supply chains and the global economy; developing countries; and the broader geopolitical context.They also stressed the importance of reinforcing their commitment to strengthening the United Nations’ and the World Health Organization’s response to the ongoing COVID19 crisis.Minister Champagne led the discussion on Myanmar, where he reiterated the importance of G7 unity and the need for continued commitment to the Rohingya people.Broader discussions also focused on Afghanistan, China, Iran, Libya, North Korea, Russia, the Sahel and Syria."
319,Minister Champagne to participate in G7 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/03/minister-champagne-to-participate-in-g7-foreign-ministers-meeting.html,3/24/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrancoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced that he will attend the G7 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting with his counterparts on March 25, 2020. The meeting will be conducted by videoconference.The Minister and his colleagues will discuss collective responses to the COVID19 pandemic for international peace and security key issues, including those involving Afghanistan, Iraq, Myanmar, North Korea, Syria, and Ukraine and Russia.The meeting will also be an opportunity to exchange views on threats to democracy, including foreign interference, the suppression of human rights and terrorism, and on protecting the rulesbased international order."
320,Readout: Minister of Foreign Affairs continues to coordinate with international partners on respective situations and responses to COVID-19,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/03/readout-minister-of-foreign-affairs-continues-to-coordinate-with-international-partners-on-respective-situations-and-responses-to-covid-190.html,3/21/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, organized a call with his counterparts from countries affected by COVID19.The following countries participated:AustraliaBrazilGermanyMoroccoPeruTurkeyThe United KingdomOn today’s call, each minister had the opportunity to update on their country’s response to COVID19 and discuss the ongoing challenges they are facing, notably the repatriation of their citizens.They shared their concerns over air travel restrictions and international border controls and the significant impact of COVID19 on travellers. The ministers addressed the need to safely return travellers home from abroad, including those currently aboard cruise ships.The ministers stressed the importance of maintaining the flow of essential goods, supplies and services during this ongoing crisis and the critical need for strong and quick action to help stabilize and protect global economies.The ministers reiterated that strong international coordination is essential and they committed to remain in close touch, in particular on citizen repatriation, as the COVID19 situation continues to evolve."
321,Readout: Minister of Foreign Affairs continues to coordinate with international partners on respective situations and responses to COVID-19,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/03/readout-minister-of-foreign-affairs-continues-to-coordinate-with-international-partners-on-respective-situations-and-responses-to-covid-19.html,3/18/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, organized a call with his counterparts from countries affected by COVID19.The following countries participated:AustraliaBrazilGermanyMoroccoPeruTurkeyThe United KingdomOn today’s call, each minister had the opportunity to update on their country’s response to COVID19 and discuss the ongoing challenges they are facing, notably the repatriation of their citizens.They shared their concerns over air travel restrictions and international border controls and the significant impact of COVID19 on travellers. The ministers addressed the need to safely return travellers home from abroad, including those currently aboard cruise ships.The ministers stressed the importance of maintaining the flow of essential goods, supplies and services during this ongoing crisis and the critical need for strong and quick action to help stabilize and protect global economies.The ministers reiterated that strong international coordination is essential and they committed to remain in close touch, in particular on citizen repatriation, as the COVID19 situation continues to evolve."
322,Canada’s humanitarian assistance to help developing countries prepare and respond to COVID-19,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/03/canadas-humanitarian-assistance-to-help-developing-countries-prepare-and-respond-to-covid-19.html,3/20/20,2020, news releases," Earlier this month, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced $50 million in funding to help vulnerable countries prepare for and respond to coronavirus disease (COVID19). As part of this, Canada will immediately provide $8 million of this funding to experienced humanitarian partners, including the World Health Organization, the PanAmerican Health Organization, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees and the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.This funding will help respond to the needs of vulnerable populations in developing countries affected by COVID19, including through increased surveillance systems and infection prevention; provision of water, sanitation and hygiene; protection services; emergency health care; and psychosocial support.As women and girls are often disproportionately affected by crises, Canada’s partners will incorporate lessons learned from past outbreaks into their response efforts to ensure that their needs are taken into account."
323,Canada congratulates incoming secretary general of the Organization of American States on his re-election,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/03/canada-congratulates-incoming-secretary-general-of-the-organization-of-american-states-on-his-re-election.html,3/20/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement:“Canada congratulates Luis Almagro on his reelection as Secretary General of the Organization of American States (OAS). We also extend our congratulations to Assistant Secretary General Nestor Mendez on his reelection by acclamation.“Canada looks forward to working with the Secretary General and Assistant Secretary General on issues of importance to our region, including furthering democracy, gender equality and a progressive human rights agenda in the Americas.“Canada remains a committed defender of the rulesbased international order, which we know is increasingly under threat, and continues to champion effective multilateralism. In the face of the COVID19 pandemic, Canada will continue to promote collaboration and dialogue among OAS and Member States to achieve greater security, stability, and prosperity in the hemisphere.”"
324,Readout: Minister of Foreign Affairs speaks with French foreign minister,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/03/readout-minister-of-foreign-affairs-speaks-with-french-foreign-minister.html,3/20/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today spoke with JeanYves Le Drian, Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of France.The ministers discussed the response plans for COVID19 in their respective countries and the importance of maintaining strong coordination between France and Canada, as well as internationally including with other members of the G7 and with the World Health Organization.They also discussed the concerns of air travel restrictions and international border controls and the significant impact of COVID19 on both the airline industry and travellers. The ministers addressed the need to safely return travellers home from abroad. Minister Champagne expressed sincere gratitude to Minister Le Drian for his support in the repatriation of Canadian passengers on board the cruise ship Costa Luminosa off the port of Marseille.On this International Day of La Francophonie, Minister Champagne also underlined the need for La Francophonie’s global family to stand united and work together in the face of the global COVID19 pandemic."
325,Readout: Minister of Foreign Affairs continues dialogue with international partners on respective situations and responses to COVID-19,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/03/readout-minister-of-foreign-affairs-continues-dialogue-with-international-partners-on-respective-situations-and-responses-to-covid-19.html,3/19/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, hosted a call with his counterparts from countries affected by COVID19.The following partners participated:AustraliaBrazilThe European UnionItalyRepublic of KoreaTurkeyOn today’s call, each had the opportunity to present their respective ongoing response to COVID19 and discuss the key challenges they are facing, including the repatriation of their citizens and ensuring the ongoing circulation of essential goods and supplies, as well as the integrity of the supply chain.Minister Champagne reiterated the importance of ongoing dialogue with counterparts in order to share best practices and lessons learned from the measures and response activities implemented to date.They all stressed the importance of strong international coordination and committed to remain in close touch, in particular on citizen repatriation, as the COVID19 situation continues to evolve."
326,Statement by Minister of Foreign Affairs on sixth anniversary of illegal annexation of Crimea,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/03/statement-by-minister-of-foreign-affairs-on-sixth-anniversary-of-illegal-annexation-of-crimea.html,3/16/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement:“Today marks six years since Russia illegally annexed Crimea. Canada unequivocally condemns this violation of Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and of international law.“For six years, the international community has witnessed grave human rights violations in Crimea committed by state agents of Russia. These have included arbitrary arrests and detentions, disappearances, torture and the suppression of freedom of opinion, expression and association. The Crimean Tatars have been persecuted, and the Mejlis, their selfgoverning body, remains banned. Russia’s aggressive and illegal actions in Ukraine must stop.“During my trip to Ukraine this month, I reiterated that Canada’s support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity is unwavering.“We are resolute in our commitment to supporting the people of Ukraine. In January, Canada, in coordination with the United States and European Union, announced new sanctions on six individuals involved in the illegitimate elections held in Russianoccupied Crimea in 2019. Together, Canada and the international community will continue to keep up the pressure to compel Russia to respect Ukraine’s sovereignty and international law.”"
327,Government of Canada to provide financial assistance to Canadians abroad ,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/03/government-of-canada-to-provide-financial-assistance-to-canadians-abroad.html,3/16/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, is providing an update on the COVID19 Emergency Loan Program for Canadians Abroad, as announced by the Prime Minister today.In light of the multiple measures implemented by governments throughout the world to contain the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID19), the Government of Canada advises Canadians to avoid nonessential travel outside Canada until further notice.Many countries have put in place travel or border restrictions and other measures such as movement restrictions and quarantines. Airlines have cancelled flights. New restrictions may be imposed with little warning. Your travel plans may be severely disrupted.The government is recommending that travellers find out what options are still available to return to Canada and consider returning as soon as possible. Canadians seeking to return now face reduced commercial travel options and may experience a sudden spike in prices.To help Canadians abroad return home, the Government of Canada is creating a special financial assistance program, the COVID19 Emergency Loan Program for Canadians Abroad. With this program, Canadian abroad directly impacted by COVID19 will have the option of applying for an emergency loan of up to $5,000 to help secure their timely return to Canada and to temporarily cover their lifesustaining needs while they work toward their return.In addition, the Government of Canada will provide additional support to Canadians directly affected by COVID19 and unable to immediately return home. This support will be provided through new partnerships with local and other organizations and will complement existing consular services.The Government of Canada encourages all Canadians abroad to register with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service to get the latest updates on the situation at their destination.Eligible Canadians currently outside Canada who need financial assistance can contact us at CAN.finances.CV19@international.gc.ca.For all other consular emergencies, Canadians can contact the nearest Government of Canada office or Global Affairs Canada’s 24/7 Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa at +1 6139968885 (collect calls are accepted where available) or email sos@international.gc.ca."
328,Canada stands with New Zealand one year after terrorist attack in Christchurch,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/03/canada-stands-with-new-zealand-one-year-after-terrorist-attack-in-christchurch.html,3/15/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and the Honourable Bill Blair, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, today issued the following statement:“A year ago, on March 15, the world was left in shock when a terrorist attacked two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, killing 51 people and injuring 50 others. New Zealand faced this terrible ordeal with courage and strength. Canada joined New Zealand in grief and solidarity.“On May 15, 2019, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau joined New Zealand’s Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and France’s President Emmanuel Macron, who brought government and industry leaders together in Paris to adopt the Christchurch Call to Action—a global pledge to eliminate terrorist and violent extremist content online.“We must continue to take coordinated action to prevent social media and other online platforms from being used as tools to incite, publish and promote terrorism, violence and hatred, including white supremacy and islamophobia.“Today, Canada stands together with the people of New Zealand and the international community in remembering the lives lost in this senseless attack. We offer our heartfelt sympathies to the families and friends of the victims.”"
329,Government of Canada advises Canadians to avoid non-essential travel abroad,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/03/government-of-canada-advises-canadians-to-avoid-non-essential-travel-abroad.html,3/13/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced that Canada has issued an official global travel advisory to avoid nonessential travel abroad.In an attempt to limit the spread of the coronavirus (COVID19), many governments have implemented special entry and exit and movement restrictions for their territories. New restrictions could be imposed, and could severely disrupt Canadians’ travel plans.As a result, the Government of Canada is advising Canadians to avoid nonessential travel outside of Canada until further notice.Canadians currently outside the country should find out what commercial options are still available and consider returning to Canada earlier than planned if these options are becoming more limited.We encourage Canadians abroad to register with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service.Canadians abroad in need of emergency consular assistance can call Global Affairs Canada’s 24/7 Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa at +1 6139968885 (collect calls are accepted where available) or email sos@international.gc.ca."
330,Government of Canada repatriates Canadians from Grand Princess cruise ship,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/03/government-of-canada-repatriates-canadians-from-grand-princess-cruise-ship.html,3/10/20,2020, news releases," ; Public Health Agency of Canada; National DefenceThe Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Health, and the Honourable Harjit Sajjan, Minister of National Defence, today announced that the plane secured by the Government of Canada to repatriate Canadians who were aboard the Grand Princess cruise ship has arrived in Canada from the United States.Before boarding, passengers were screened for symptoms. Anyone exhibiting symptoms of the coronavirus disease (COVID19) was not permitted to board.At 6:15am ET today, 228 passengers arrived on the plane at Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Trenton. Upon landing, the returning passengers were screened at CFB Trenton by quarantine officers and then met by officers from the Canada Border Services Agency. They will be subject to a 14day quarantine period and undergo the same medical assessment and observation as those Canadians who were previously repatriated from Wuhan, China, and Japan.The Government of Canada is working with provincial, territorial and local public health authorities to ensure that the returning Canadians and their family members receive medical and ongoing support to protect their health and the health and safety of all Canadians.We encourage Canadians in San Francisco to consult the Government of Canada’s Travel Advice and Advisories and register with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service.Canadians in San Francisco in need of emergency consular assistance can contact the Consulate General of Canada in Los Angeles at 18448806519 or email ccs.scc@international.gc.ca. They can also contact Global Affairs Canada’s 24/7 Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa at +1 613 996 8885 or email sos@international.gc.ca."
331,Government of Canada amends Chemical Weapons Convention Implementation Act,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/03/government-of-canada-amends-chemical-weapons-convention-implementation-act.html,3/10/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced that Canada is taking a strong stance for a safer world by controlling dangerous chemicals under the Chemical Weapons Convention Implementation Act (CWCIA).Following the despicable attacks against Sergei and Yulia Skripal in Salisbury, U.K., in March of 2018 and the death of Dawn Sturgess in Amesbury, U.K., in July of 2018, it has become clear that Novichoks, a class of chemical weapons, must be subject to declaration and verification.Last fall, States Parties to the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) agreed unanimously to add Novichoks to the list of chemicals banned by the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW)— the first time new toxic chemicals had been added to the OPCW list.Today, Canada is tabling amendments to the CWC to add four new categories of controlled chemicals—including Novichoks—as agreed at the 24th Session of the Conference of the States Parties of the CWC, held in The Hague, Netherlands, in November 2019.Canada is also introducing legislation to amend the CWCIA by clarifying the list of controlled chemicals for those who work in this field. This will ensure that Canada’s implementation of the CWC is constantly up to date."
332,Statement by Minister of Foreign Affairs on Commonwealth Day,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/03/statement-by-minister-of-foreign-affairs-on-commonwealth-day.html,3/9/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement:“Together, with more than 2 billion people in 54 countries around the world, Canada celebrates our shared history and strong bonds of friendship embodied in the Commonwealth.“As a proud and engaged partner in the Commonwealth, we continue to promote peace, democracy, human rights, good governance, the rule of law and gender equality for the benefit of the diverse countries and peoples that make up our Commonwealth family. These common values are enshrined in the Commonwealth Charter, as well as in the Affirmation adopted last year by Foreign Ministers of the Commonwealth on its 70th Anniversary.“Building on recent Commonwealth heads of government meetings, Canada will continue to advocate global action on climate change and oceans protection, respect for LGBTQ2 rights and the empowerment of women and youth.“On this day, we celebrate our family of nations’ collective objective in promoting democracy around the world. We commit to continuing to work alongside member states to uphold our shared values and create a more just and prosperous future for all.”Quick factsThe modern Commonwealth is a voluntary association of 54 countries, most with historic links to the United Kingdom.Canada joined the modern Commonwealth in 1949 and has played an important role in its evolution into the Commonwealth of today.Associated linksCanada and the Commonwealth"
333,Minister of Foreign Affairs and Minister of Health to provide an update on the consular situation on the Grand Princess cruise ship,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/03/minister-of-foreign-affairs-and-minister-of-health-to-provide-an-update-on-the-consular-situation-on-the-grand-princess-cruise-ship.html,3/9/20,2020, media advisories," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Health, and Dr. Theresa Tam, Chief Public Health Officer (CPHO), will provide an update on the consular situation on the Grand Princess cruise ship.
Event: Media availability  Date: Monday, March 9, 2020 Time: 11:15 a.m. EDT Location: National Press Theatre, 150 Wellington Street, Ottawa, OntarioNotes: The media availability will also be held by teleconference. Tollfree (Canada/US) dialin number: 18668057923. Passcode: 8913161#"
334,Statement on International Women’s Day,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/03/statement-on-international-womens-day.html,3/8/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Honourable Karina Gould, Minister of International Development, and the Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, today issued the following statement:“This International Women’s Day, while recognizing the achievements women and girls have made throughout history, we remain committed to the work that still needs be done to ensure they have equal opportunities to succeed here and around the world.“Gender equality is a fundamental human right—that is why it is at the heart of our foreign policy.“Canada works closely with women’s organizations and civil society groups at home and abroad who play a crucial role in removing barriers and bringing about positive change.“Our global efforts to empower women and girls are strengthened by our country’s firstever Feminist International Assistance Policy, along with our updated National Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security.“Canada’s inclusive trade policies help womenowned businesses grow in the global marketplace and ensure that all Canadians—including women—benefit from our trade agreements.“Twentyfive years after the Beijing Conference on Gender Equality and 20 years after the UN Security Council introduced its resolution on women, peace and security, Canada continues to actively protect and promote the human rights of women and girls as we advocate for their meaningful participation in society and economies worldwide.“By advancing gender equality, we will create a more peaceful, inclusive and prosperous world.”"
335,Government of Canada evacuating Canadians on board Grand Princess cruise ship,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/03/government-of-canada-evacuating-canadians-on-board-grand-princess-cruise-ship.html,3/8/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Health, and the Honourable Harjit Sajjan, Minister of National Defence, today announced that the Government of Canada has secured a plane to repatriate Canadians on board the Grand Princess off the west coast of the United States, following an outbreak of COVID19 on the cruise ship.This decision was made following a request for assistance from the Government of the United States to repatriate Canadians. Given our shared border, Canada recognizes the importance of working together with the United States to limit the spread of COVID19 within North America and beyond.   The extent and frequency of interaction amongst cruise passengers and the close quarters found on most cruise ships presents a unique environment where COVID19 can easily spread. To ensure the health and safety of Canadians, passengers from the Grand Princess will be quarantined upon their return to Canada. The plane will bring passengers from San Francisco to Canadian Forces Base Trenton, after which they will be assessed and undergo a 14day quarantine.Passengers will be screened for symptoms before boarding the plane. If they exhibit symptoms, they will not be permitted to board and will instead be further assessed to determine next steps.We will continue to provide more information on travel plans as they become available. In the meantime, we ask all Canadians on board the Grand Princess to continue to follow our recommendations for protecting their health and the health of others.All Canadians aboard the Grand Princess are encouraged to sign up with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service to receive the latest updates from the Government of Canada on COVID19.Canadians in San Francisco in need of emergency consular assistance can contact the Consulate General of Canada in San Francisco at +1 844 880 6519 or email ccs.scc@international.gc.ca. Canadians can also contact Global Affairs Canada’s 24/7 Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa at +1 613 996 8885 or email sos@international.gc.ca."
336,Statement by Minister of Foreign Affairs on Malaysian Airlines Flight MH17 trial,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/03/statement-by-minister-of-foreign-affairs-on-malaysian-airlines-flight-mh17-trial.html,3/7/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement on the start of the Malaysian Airlines Flight MH17 trial in the Netherlands:“Canada welcomes the start of the criminal trial of four suspects charged with the downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17 on July 17, 2014.“This is an important milestone in the pursuit of truth, justice and accountability for the 298 victims of this horrific act, which included one Canadian, as well as for their families and loved ones.“Canada expresses full confidence in the independence and professionalism of the international investigation and the Dutch legal system.“We continue to call on all states, including Russia, to cooperate fully with the Joint Investigation Team’s [JIT’s] ongoing criminal investigation, consistent with the call for accountability and cooperation unanimously adopted in UN Security Council Resolution 2166.“Canada again commends the JIT for its tireless work in pursuit of accountability for these crimes.”"
337,Backgrounder - Canada announces support to improve security during meetings in Ukraine,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/03/backgrounder---canada-announces-support-to-improve-security-during-meetings-in-ukraine.html,3/7/20,2020, backgrounders,"Police Assistance Project on Strategic Reform Capacities of the National Police of UkraineImplementing partner: Geneva Centre for Security Sector GovernanceFunding: $ 2,211,400Duration: 2019 to 2023The Police Assistance Project on Strategic Reform Capacities of the National Police of Ukraine will help reform efforts to improve security in Ukraine by supporting the strategic reform implementation of a more effective, efficient and gendersensitive National Police of Ukraine (NPU).Over three years, the project will strengthen the capacity of the Strategic Reform Unit in advising the NPU in planning, implementing, monitoring and reviewing reform processes that integrate a gender perspective and enhancing NPU management capacity to implement these reforms.Ultimately, the NPU should have the capacity for, and contribute to, improved security in Ukraine by better responding to the security needs of Ukrainian citizens, including those of women and girls.The project supports sustainable peace in Ukraine, consistent with democratic governance, the rule of law and respect for human rights."
338,"Minister Champagne concludes successful visit to Latvia, Ukraine and Poland",https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/03/minister-champagne-concludes-successful-visit-to-latvia-ukraine-and-poland.html,3/7/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, concluded his visit to Latvia, Ukraine and Poland yesterday where he emphasized Canada’s continued commitment to safeguarding regional security and defence.While in Ukraine, Minister Champagne highlighted Canada’s continued commitment to the country’s ambitious reform efforts and engaging women in peace and security efforts.The Minister also announced more than $2 million over three years to help strengthen the capacity of the National Police of Ukraine in planning, implementing, monitoring and reviewing reform processes.The Minister also discussed the work that Canada is doing to stand up for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity in the face of Russian aggression.During his visit, Minister Champagne visited Canadian troops deployed to NATO’s enhanced Forward Presence Battle Group in Latvia as part of Canada’s Operation REASSURANCE. He also visited Canadian troops deployed on Operation UNIFIER at the International Peacekeeping and Security Centre in Yavoriv, Ukraine, where he was able to see first hand the important work our troops are doing in support of security in the region."
339,Minister of Foreign Affairs marks 50th anniversary of Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/03/minister-of-foreign-affairs-marks-50th-anniversary-of-treaty-on-the-non-proliferation-of-nuclear-weapons.html,3/5/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement:“Fifty years ago today, the Treaty on the NonProliferation of Nuclear Weapons [NPT] entered into force. As a critical part of the rulesbased international order, the NPT continues to promote international peace and security by limiting the spread of the world’s most destructive weapons.“Since its entry into force, Canada’s commitment to the NPT has been unwavering. The Treaty has been instrumental in facilitating cooperation on the peaceful uses of nuclear technology. “In keeping with today’s challenges, Canada advocates for an inclusive approach to advancing the goals of the NPT.  In this regard, we are committed to continue engaging with youth and promoting the full, equal and meaningful participation of women in all aspects of disarmament and nonproliferation. Youth and women can be a positive force for change and have the right to an active voice on issues that impact their safety and security. “We will also continue to work together with all stakeholders, including states and civil society, in efforts to reinforce the importance and continued relevance of the NPT.“Canada will continue to promote the NPT’s universalization, including through participation in the upcoming 2020 NPT Review Conference. We firmly believe that further advancements on nuclear disarmament will contribute to international peace and security and prosperity.”Quick factsThe NPT was opened for signature on July 1, 1968, and came into force on March 5, 1970. It remains the only global treaty that advances nuclear disarmament, limits the spread of nuclear weapons and recognizes the inalienable right to use nuclear energy for peaceful purposes.Canada signed the NPT on July 23, 1968 and ratified on January 8, 1969.To date, 191 states have joined the NPT, including 5 recognized nuclearweapon states (China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom and the United States). The NPT requires these 5 states to pursue negotiations relating to the cessation of the nuclear arms race and to nuclear disarmament.In accordance with the NPT, the International Atomic Energy Agency oversees a robust global safeguards regime, enhancing confidence that states’ nuclear programs are exclusively peaceful in nature.The next NPT review conference will take place from April 27 to May 22, 2020, at the United Nations Headquarters, in New York.Related linksCanada and the nuclear nonproliferation treaty"
340,Minister of Foreign Affairs to hold media teleconference following visit to Latvia and Ukraine,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/03/minister-of-foreign-affairs-to-hold-media-teleconference-following-visit-to-latvia-and-ukraine.html,3/5/20,2020, media advisories," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, will hold a media teleconference at the conclusion of his trip to Latvia and Ukraine.
Date: Friday, March 6, 2020 Time: 8:15 am ET (3:15 pm EET)  Notes for media: Media representatives wishing to participate in the teleconference should dial 18668057923 or 6139607518. The access code is 3778154#."
341,Readout: Foreign Affairs Minister speaks with his Indian counterpart,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/03/readout-foreign-affairs-minister-speaks-with-foreign-minister-of-india.html,3/4/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, Minister of External Affairs of India, had a phone call this week.The Ministers discussed the situation in the IndoPacific region related to COVID19, including their respective countries’ responses. Minister Champagne stressed the need for greater international coordination.The Ministers discussed the broader bilateral relationship and the steps towards hosting the next Strategic Dialogue in Canada.Minister Champagne raised recent events in Delhi and expressed concerns over the lives lost."
342,"Minister Ng champions Canadian global leadership in responsible, sustainable, innovative mining at Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada convention",https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/03/minister-ng-champions-canadian-global-leadership-in-responsible-sustainable-innovative-mining-at-prospectors--developers-association-of-canada-conv.html,3/3/20,2020, news releases," Today, the Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, concluded her participation in the annual convention of the Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada (PDAC).On March 2, 2020, Minister Ng joined Prime Minister Justin Trudeau at a reception hosted by Invest in Canada, where she promoted Canada as an excellent place for businesses from around the world to invest. The Minister also outlined Canada’s leadership role in steering the mining industry toward a sustainable future and how Canada is tackling climate change while creating good jobs for Canadians.At the reception, the Prime Minister announced that the government intends to propose a new incentive that would make it more affordable for Canadian businesses to use zeroemission vehicles and automotive equipment.Throughout the PDAC convention, Minister Ng met with representatives of small and mediumsized businesses—including women in mining—recognized as world leaders in innovative and green mining technologies. She touted Canada’s commitment to attract new investment from around the world, which fosters innovation, creates opportunities for Canadian businesses and strengthens the economy.The Minister also met with ministers from Egypt, Nigeria, South Africa, Zambia and others countries to highlight Canada as an important trading and investment partner and to discuss opportunities to work together in sustainable mining."
343,Minister Ng in Toronto for last day of PDAC convention and events leading up to International Women’s Day,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/03/minister-ng-in-toronto-for-last-day-of-pdac-convention-and-events-leading-up-to-international-womens-day.html,3/2/20,2020, media advisories," The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, will deliver remarks and meet with Canadian mining companies at the Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada’s (PDAC) annual convention, in Toronto, Ontario.
Minister Ng will also meet with women entrepreneurs and business leaders in the leadup to International Women’s Day.
Event: Minister Ng will deliver remarks at the Annual African Mining Breakfast  Date: Tuesday, March 3, 2020 Time: 8:00 a.m. ET Location: Civic Ballroom, Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel, 123 Queen Street West, Toronto, OntarioNotes:

Open coverage for remarks
Media are asked to arrive no later than 7:45 a.m. ET

Event: Minister Ng will tour the PDAC’s trade show floor   Date: Tuesday, March 3, 2020 Time: 10:00 a.m. ET Location: Trade Show Floor, South Building, Metro Toronto Convention Centre, 225 Front Street West, Toronto, OntarioNotes:

Open coverage
Media are asked to arrive no later than 9:45 a.m. ET

Event: Minister Ng will tour the Atkinson Housing CoOperative Date: Tuesday, March 3, 2020 Time:  1:10 p.m. ET Location: 71 Augusta Square, Toronto, Ontario Notes:

Open coverage
Media are asked to arrive no later than 1:00 p.m. ET

Event: Minister Ng will host a roundtable discussion with the Canadian Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce  Date: Tuesday, March 3, 2020 Time:  2:05 p.m. ET Location: Ernst and Young, 100 Adelaide Street West, Toronto, OntarioNotes:

Open coverage for remarks at the beginning of the roundtable
Media are asked to arrive no later than 1:45 p.m. ET

Event: Minister Ng will deliver remarks at the launch of the Entrepreneurial Leadership & Learning Alliance (ELLA) Date: Tuesday, March 3, 2020 Time: 6:15 p.m.  ET Location: York University, Second Student Centre, 15 Library Lane, Conference Centre 2nd Floor, Toronto, OntarioNote:

Open coverage
Media are asked to RSVP to Vanessa Thompson of York University (6476549452 or vthomps@yorku.ca)"
344,Canada welcomes U.S.-Taliban agreement in Afghanistan,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/02/canada-welcomes-us-taliban-agreement-in-afghanistan.html,2/29/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement:“Canada notes the signing of an agreement between the United States and the Taliban, which we hope can lead to a more stable and secure Afghanistan.“Afghans deserve to be free from violence and conflict. After decades of war, there is a need to forge a peaceful path forward as the country enters into Afghanled and Afghanowned peace talks.“Canada thanks the State of Qatar for facilitating these talks.“We encourage all parties to seize this moment for peace and stability in Afghanistan.“Canada has always been a steadfast partner of Afghanistan, with 40,000 Canadians having served as part of the NATO Mission from 2001 to 2014. We continue to support stabilization, development and humanitarian efforts in the country, and look forward to continue supporting meaningful peace negotiations that include all Afghan people, including women and minorities.”"
345,Canada strongly condemns targeting of civilians in northwestern Syria,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/02/canada-strongly-condemns-targeting-of-civilians-in-northwestern-syria.html,2/28/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and the Honourable Karina Gould, Minister of International Development, today issued the following statement:“Canada condemns in the strongest terms the deliberate attacks targeting civilians, schools, medical personnel and healthcare facilities now occurring in Idlib, Syria. These ongoing attacks on innocent civilians by the Syrian regime, its supporters and foreign facilitators must end. The violence has had a disastrous impact on civilians, killing more than 298 since January 1, 2020, and displacing almost 950,000 since December 1, 2019.“Canada calls for an immediate ceasefire in the area and for all parties to respect basic human decency and ensure full, safe and unhindered humanitarian access to civilians in need.“We remain steadfast in our commitment to supporting experienced humanitarian partners on the ground that are addressing humanitarian needs in Syria and the region.“Canada also supports the UN SecretaryGeneral’s recent call for a political solution to end the humanitarian crisis currently unfolding. Only a negotiated political solution can generate a sustainable, peaceful end to the Syrian conflict.”"
346,"Minister Champagne to visit Latvia, Ukraine and Poland",https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/02/minister-champagne-to-visit-latvia-ukraine-and-poland.html,2/28/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, will be in Latvia from March 2 to 3, 2020, before visiting Ukraine from March 4 to 6 and Poland on March 6.In Riga, Latvia, Minister Champagne will meet with Egils Levits, President; Krišjānis Kariņš, Prime Minister; Edgars Rinkēvičs, Minister of Foreign Affairs; and Artis Pabriks, Minister of Defence and Deputy Prime Minister to discuss our commitments to security in the region and shared priorities with Latvia.In Kyiv, Ukraine, Minister Champagne will meet with Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President; Oleksiy Honcharuk, Prime Minister; and Vadym Prystaiko, Minister of Foreign Affairs, to discuss the close ties between our two countries, the ongoing threats to Ukraine’s security and territorial integrity as well as our support for economic and democratic reforms in Ukraine. Minister Champagne will also speak with his counterpart about our joint response to the Flight PS752 tragedy.In Warsaw, Poland, the Minister will hold a brief meeting with Jacek Czaputowicz, Poland’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, before returning to Canada.Minister Champagne will also visit Canadian troops deployed to NATO’s enhanced Forward Presence Battle Group Latvia as part of Canada’s Operation REASSURANCE and troops deployed to Operation UNIFIER at the International Peacekeeping and Security Centre in Yavoriv, Ukraine."
347,Minister Rodríguez will travel to Uruguay and Argentina to strengthen bilateral relations with Canada,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/02/minister-rodriguez-will-travel-to-uruguay-and-argentina-to-strengthen-bilateral-relations-with-canada.html,2/28/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced that the Honourable Pablo Rodríguez, Leader of the Government in the House of Commons, will visit Uruguay from February 29 to March 2, 2020, and will be in Argentina from March 2 to March 4.In Uruguay, Minister Rodríguez will attend the inauguration ceremony of Luis Lacalle Pou, presidentelect. Minister Rodríguez will also meet with government officials and local business leaders to discuss our countries’ common interests such as human rights, gender equality, peacekeeping and free, fair and balanced international trade. In Argentina, Minister Rodríguez will meet with government officials, business leaders and representatives from the arts and civil society to highlight the strong and longstanding ties between Canada and Argentina, based on our shared commitment to the rulesbased international order, universal human rights, gender equality and climate action.As Canada pursues its candidacy for election to the United Nations Security Council, we will continue to work with our partners in the hemisphere to advance shared global interests and unlock new opportunities for people and businesses in Canada and around the world.Canada is deeply committed to working with its international partners to build a more peaceful, inclusive and sustainable world."
348,Statement by Minister of International Development for World NGO Day,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/02/statement-by-minister-of-international-development-for-world-ngo-day.html,2/27/20,2020, statements," The Honourable Karina Gould, Minister of International Development, today issued the following statement:“Today on World NGO Day, we are proud to showcase and celebrate the work of all nongovernmental organizations that identify global problems and bring forward innovative solutions with compassion and determination.“NGOs collaborate and engage with citizens and other civil society actors to build a world that is more peaceful, inclusive and sustainable for everyone, regardless of where they were born. They truly embody our country’s values through their development work.“For instance, in Afghanistan, CARE Canada provided primary education to thousands of children to increase access to education through communitybased classes.“In East Africa, the Canadian Foodgrains Bank is working with farmers, particularly women, to integrate conservation agriculture in their farming practices.“In subSaharan Africa and Central America, SeedChange is collaborating with smallscale farmers to develop new varieties of seeds that are locally adapted and resistant to drought, flooding, pests and diseases and provide nutritious food to local communities.“Canadian NGOs also play a critical role in addressing gaps in health systems and in taking a rightsbased approach to reach the poorest and most underserved. Amref Canada, for example, focuses on reaching vulnerable populations to increase the awareness of and access to quality maternal and reproductive health services.“On this World NGO Day, we celebrate these organizations that stand up in the most challenging situations to end poverty and hunger, to achieve gender equality, to foster peace, to build real partnerships and to protect the planet for future generations.”"
349,Minister of Foreign Affairs to welcome foreign minister of Lithuania to Canada,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/02/minister-of-foreign-affairs-to-welcome-foreign-minister-of-lithuania-to-canada.html,2/26/20,2020, news releases, today announced that he will host Linas Linkevičius Minister of Foreign Affairs of Lithuania in Ottawa Ontario on February 27 .
350,Government of Canada repatriates Canadians and their families from Diamond Princess cruise ship in Japan,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/02/government-of-canada-repatriates-canadians-and-their-families-from-diamond-princess-cruise-ship-in-japan.html,2/21/20,2020, news releases," ; Public Health Agency of Canada; National DefenceThe Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Health, and the Honourable Harjit Sajjan, Minister of National Defence, today announced that the plane chartered by the Government of Canada to repatriate Canadians who were on board the Diamond Princess cruise ship has arrived in Canada from Tokyo, Japan.At 2:01 (EST) today, 129 Canadians and accompanying family members travelling on the chartered plane arrived at Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Trenton. None of the passengers exhibited symptoms of the novel coronavirus (COVID19) upon arrival.Upon landing, the returning passengers were screened at CFB Trenton by quarantine officers and then met by officers from the Canada Border Services Agency. They were then transported to the NAV CENTRE in Cornwall, Ontario where they will be subject to a 14 day quarantine period. They will undergo the same medical assessment and observation as those who were repatriated earlier this month from Wuhan, China,The Government of Canada continues to work with provincial, territorial and local health authorities to ensure that the returning Canadians and their family members receive all the medical and ongoing support necessary to protect their health and the health and safety of all Canadians.We encourage Canadians in Japan to consult the Government of Canada’s Travel Advice and Advisories and Travel Health Notices, and register with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service.Canadians in Japan in need of emergency consular assistance can contact the Embassy of Canada to Japan in Tokyo at +81 (0) 354126200 or email tokyoconsul@international.gc.ca. They can also contact Global Affairs Canada’s 24/7 Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa at +1 613 996 8885 or email sos@international.gc.ca."
351,Address by Minister of Foreign Affairs to the Montreal Council on Foreign Relations,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/02/address-by-minister-of-foreign-affairs-to-the-montreal-council-on-foreign-relations.html,2/21/20,2020, speeches,"European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement]—our free trade agreement with the European Union—had just entered into force, thanks to the foresight of PierreMarc Johnson, former premier of Quebec. We had also just signed the TransPacific Partnership Agreement. And today, as you know, we are finalizing the ratification of the new NAFTA.This means that today, Canada has privileged access to nearly 1.2 billion consumers thanks to modern and progressive trade agreements, making Canada the only G7 country to have a free trade agreement with all other G7 members. It is a fact that I take pride in repeating in all the forums around the world.This is great news for our economy and for our businesses. For our artists, for the environment, for youth.I’ve repeatedly said it, over the past 35 years: CORIM has carved out a place for itself as the ultimate Montréal, Quebec and Canadian platform to offer those who share an interest in world affairs an exceptional forum for discussion.Thank you for giving me this opportunity to speak to you about the mandate given to me by Prime Minister Trudeau, for Canadian foreign policy, as we enter this third decade of the 21st century.Canada’s interests, values ​​and principles are at the heart of everything we do on the international stage.From our commitment within multilateral institutions, to our trade agreements, through our defence and promotion of human rights.This approach is more relevant and more important than ever in an increasingly unpredictable world.A world in which the international system, as we know it, is under severe strain.Ladies and gentlemen,As you know, our world is going through a period of deep transformations and uncertainties.We see this with, among other things, a rise in populism, a rise in protectionism and a growth in economic and technological inequalities.We also see it with a rise in economic, political and diplomatic power from the West to Asia.We see this with a decline in human rights and an upsurge in the selective application of international law.Finally, we see this with a profound questioning of multilateral institutions and of the rulebased international order.Indeed, we are seeing the emergence of a multipolar world with new epicentres of influence and competition over ideas and models of governance.Around the world, human rights are increasingly under threat.From the devastating plight of the Rohingya in Myanmar, to a rise of antisemitic and Islamophobic rhetoric and behaviour, to attacks on front line human rights defenders. From impunity for those who abuse their power, to the flouting of international law.Add to this portrait the immense demographic transformation taking place in the world. By 2050, the world’s population could increase by 2.2 billion, almost half of which in Africa alone.The 10 countries with the youngest populations in the world are all in Africa with a median age of around 16 years. This continent will offer immense possibilities but will also have its share of difficulties to overcome if the international community does not maintain the necessary support for stability, economic security or education. It is with this in mind that I went to Africa three times in three months to listen, exchange and help.All this, without mentioning the existential threat of our time: the climate crisis, as the recent fires in Australia remind us so well.And to those who still doubt the urgency of this crisis, our message is clear on all the stands: Yes, the climate crisis is very real! And yes, we must take immediate urgent action to deal with it individually and collectively.And this climate crisis cannot and must not be used as a political or partisan issue.The climate crisis is the moral challenge of our time, and Canada will continue to play a leading role in the fight against climate change.When it comes to the climate crisis, the cost of inaction and failure far, far exceeds the price of action.Ladies and gentlemen,We live in a complex world.A complex and increasingly unpredictable world, as evidenced by the coronavirus epidemic or the situation we are currently facing with Iran.But in this complex and fraught world, there are also hopeful signs.Inspirational people around the world are advancing our societies and improving the lives of marginalized people.There is a growing consensus that there is an urgent need to act on the climate crisis, largely among young people who are bravely sounding the alarm. The young Canadian Autumn Peltier, the water rights warrior, is a prime example.There is also a growing consensus on human rights, including women’s rights, the rights of LGBTQ2 people and democratic rights.From Venezuela to Sudan and beyond, people stand up and demand that their government respect these rights. Canada is proud to stand by their side.Increasingly, women are taking their place at the negotiating table, whether to resolve conflicts, conclude trade agreements or rule cities and countries.Canada is proud to have a feminist foreign policy, not because it looks good, but because it produces tangible and measurable results. I witnessed it first hand during my recent visit to Mali and across Africa. It is not a question of strengthening the power of women, they are already strong; it is a question of removing the obstacles to their full emancipation, to their leadership.Our agenda on women, peace and security is a central element of our policy.In fact, during this mandate, I will strengthen the foundations of this policy by working with civil society to launch a white paper on Canada’s feminist foreign policy.In short, we live in a world where the possibilities for international collaboration and cooperation are limitless, largely thanks to the standards and multilateral institutions established over the past 75 years.Since the end of the Second World War, we have witnessed one of the longest periods of peace between great powers in history and the unprecedented creation of wealth, even if it is true they are not distributed fairly.This remarkable feat is based on the principle that major international challenges require global solutions. The idea that the challenges facing humanity cannot be solved within the confines of states alone.Hence the existence of a framework of institutions and standards commonly known as the rulesbased international order.A framework that all countries, no matter how small, can count on to defend their interests while ensuring the collective interests of the entire international community.It is a framework through which we have been able to advance Canada’s foreign policy priorities for decades. As Henri Lacordaire said, “Between the weak and the strong, it is the law that liberates.”But rulesbased international order is under threat today.This is why it is necessary to support and modernize the multilateral system in order to ensure its sustainability while adapting it to the new realities of today.And this is where Canada can and must play a leading role on the international stage.It’s not only in our national interest, it’s also what the international community expects from Canada.Why?Because Canada has not only always been a champion and defender of multilateralism, but Canada has also been at the root of the institutions, principles and values ​​that drive multilateralism.In the earliest days after World War II, for example, Canada was there, helping to create the Bretton Woods institutions.In 1947, Canada was among the 23 nations that signed the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade, which would later become the World Trade Organization.Canada is a founding member of the United Nations and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization [NATO].A Canadian, John Humphrey, was actively engaged in shaping the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which still today serves as the foundation to protect the dignity of all people.Another Canadian, Lester B. Pearson, earned the Nobel Peace Prize for devising the form of military intervention that has come to be known as peacekeeping.And that’s not all.Let us remember Lloyd Axworthy, who was the architect of the Ottawa Treaty banning antipersonnel mines.It was also Canada, when we sat on the UN Security Council, that pioneered the concept of the “responsibility to protect,” a mechanism to protect victims of genocide. Like the women’s peace and security agenda, a very Canadian initiative.Ladies and gentlemen,As we enter the third decade of the 21st century, we have the opportunity and the responsibility to assert and exercise our leadership internationally.And the good news is that we have everything to succeed and assume this leadership.Canada has a voice at almost every table: the G7, the G20, La Francophonie, the Commonwealth, NATO, the OECD [Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development] and so on.The very principles on which our country’s confederation is founded—peace, order and good government—resonate in many corners of the planet.But let’s be clear: our reputation and credibility rest on our ability to demonstrate to our partners and allies how—in concrete terms—our principles and values ​​guide our diplomacy.Let me now present to you the priorities that will guide my mandate as minister of foreign affairs; priorities to advance Canada’s interests through multilateralism, trade and human rights.IranFirst, Iran and the tragedy of Flight PS752, a tragedy that illustrates once again the importance of diplomacy and multilateralism and the need to adapt quickly to circumstances.We chose dialogue while remaining firm so that justice could be done for the families of the victims.Canada has shown leadership with the creation of the International Coordination and Response Group for Victims of Flight PS752, which ensures that the international community speaks with one voice visàvis Iran.And despite the pitfalls, despite the lack of diplomatic relations with the Iranian regime, we were able to quickly dispatch investigators to the field and repatriate the bodies of the victims, according to the wishes expressed by the families.That being said, much work remains to be done in order for Iran to fully assume responsibility for this tragic event, including a full and transparent investigation, the need for Iran to get the black boxes downloaded and analyzed without delay and a swift compensation settlement for the families of the victims based on international standards.We owe it to the families to get all the answers to the questions surrounding this terrible tragedy.We will continue to hold the Iranian regime accountable.We will judge Iran not by its words but by its actions. The world is watching.Regarding the black boxes, I repeat here the call of Canada and the international community to Iran: the black boxes must be transferred to France to be analyzed without delay, in accordance with Annex 13 of the Convention on International Civil Aviation.ChinaNow let me talk about China.First, on the coronavirus epidemic and the global effort to contain it.As with the Zika virus epidemic in 2016, the Ebola virus in 2014, the H1N1 flu pandemic in 2009 or even SARS in 2003, it has always been vital that countries work together to prevent diseases from spreading.Renowned Canadian epidemiologist Dr. Bruce Aylward leads a team of WHO [World Health Organization] experts from around the world to China to study the coronavirus.Throughout this crisis, we have been in constant contact with international partners to work together as efficiently as necessary.And thanks to the cooperation of the Chinese and Japanese authorities, we were able to repatriate nearly 550 of our citizens to the country.However, it should not be inferred that Canada’s relationship with China has returned to normal.As you know, our relationship with China is complex and multidimensional.The year 2020 marks 50 years of diplomatic relations between our two countries, and we are currently going through a turbulent period in our common diplomatic history.Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor have been arbitrarily detained for over a year.Our top priority remains to secure their release.We are also working to obtain clemency for Robert Schellenberg, sentenced to death by China.Here again, faced with a difficult and complex situation, Canada is not going it alone.A multitude of international partners share our opinion: the actions of a state within the framework of an international treaty must not generate reprisals against its citizens abroad.That said, however difficult and complex it may be, Canadians know that our relationship with China remains important in many ways.Finding the right balance is a delicate operation. There will always be issues on which we will have differences and issues on which we will have overlapping positions. You have to learn to live with this complexity.I believe in dialogue even if it means having difficult conversations. That’s the nature of diplomacy.And, yes, it’s possible to work with China on the reform of the WTO [World Trade Organization], while at the same time not be aligned with China on human rights.Will we continue to emphasize the importance of global rules, principles and protections endorsed by the global community, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights or the Vienna Convention?Always.Our relations with China will always be guided by the interests of Canadians, as well as by our commitment to the rules and principles enshrined in international law.Another priority is our campaign for a nonpermanent seat on the UN Security Council.Let me first put this approach and the importance it has for Canada into context.As the Prime Minister once said, obtaining a seat on the Security Council is not an end in itself.A seat on the Security Council is above all a vehicle for promoting the principles and values ​​that shape our vision of international relations. A vision based on strong and effective multilateralism, and on an international rulebased order.We are witnessing a major questioning of the capacity of international institutions to respond to the crises of our time, particularly in Asia, Africa and Latin America.As the model of liberal democracies is put to the test, there is an urgent need to develop new tools and new ways of doing things and to create a new consensus to better face these challenges.Our campaign for a seat on the Security Council is therefore an opportunity for our government to demonstrate our leadership in the face of the great challenges and crises of our time.The campaign is an opportunity to assert Canada’s interests, principles and values ​​to give credibility to multilateralism, strengthen it and better adapt it to the realities of today.From our chairing of the UN Peacebuilding Commission to the Alliance for Multilateralism and the Lima Group to restore democracy in Venezuela.From the Ottawa Group to the WTO, to the Vancouver Principles for the protection of children in armed conflict.From La Francophonie (which is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year), including APEC [AsiaPacific Economic Cooperation] and the Commonwealth.From the Ocean Plastics Charter to the Elsie Initiative for Women in Peace Operations, through to our copresidency of the next Global Conference for Media Freedom in Quebec on September 17 and 18, 2020—Canada is showing leadership on many international initiatives.Some will say that the fight for a Security Council seat is not worth it, or that it’s too late.My answer to that is, it’s never too late to fight for women’s rights, human rights, the environment and democracy.As for those who criticize the Security Council as outdated and ineffective, we agree that reform is needed. But allow me to paraphrase Winston Churchill, by saying, “It may not be perfect, but it’s the best thing we’ve got!”Indeed, the UN Security Council is still among the most important tables in the world where major decisions and discussions on peace and security are held.And it’s a place where Canada can have both relevance and influence.My speech would not be complete without, of course, talking about our bilateral relationship with the United States.We are allies, partners and friends, inseparable from our geography, our personal ties and our economic ties.The new NAFTA opens a new chapter in our relationship. A new chapter that will provide more prosperity, more opportunity and more stability.As evidenced by the sometimes difficult negotiations of the past two years, our government will always look after the interests of Canadians without compromise.I would also like to take this opportunity to congratulate the Prime Minister and my predecessor, Chrystia Freeland, for their tireless work, which allows us today to see the future in a much more positive light.In conclusion, the aims of our foreign policy and my priorities as minister are certainly ambitious.They have to be because Canada is an ambitious country.In a polarized world, the international community is asking that voices, like that of Canada, be raised to support and renew multilateralism, contribute to stability and prosperity, and defend the principles of law attached to it.Many will say that in a context of minority government, we will have to act quickly to achieve our objectives.But as the African proverb says so well: “If you want to go fast, walk alone. But if you want to go far, let’s walk together.”And that is what I intend to do during my mandate. Go far for Canada and with Canadians.Hence the importance of an inclusive approach, where the provinces, the business community, businesses, artists and civil society, in collaboration with our international partners, are all shoulder to shoulder, with us, for a greener, safer, more inclusive and more prosperous world.Thank you."
352,Canada condemns Russia’s malicious cyber-activity targeting Georgia,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/02/canada-condemns-russias-malicious-cyber-activity-targeting-georgia.html,2/20/20,2020, statements," Global Affairs Canada today issued the following statement on Russia’s malicious cyberactivity targeting Georgia:“Today, Canada joins its allies in identifying and exposing malicious cyberactivities by Russia targeting Georgia.“On October 28, 2019, over 15,000 Georgian government websites and media outlets were taken offline and defaced in yet another attempt by Russia to destabilize Georgia and undermine its democratic institutions. According to our assessment, these actions were carried out by the Sandworm Team, who are sponsored by the cyberunits of Russia’s military intelligence agency, the GRU.“Canada strongly condemns these malicious activities. These actions are aimed at sowing discord in Georgia ahead of their parliamentary elections later this year and show blatant disregard for international law, norms and agreements.“They represent 1 case in an ongoing series of malicious activities by Russia, including the use of the NotPetya malware, which caused significant disruption in Ukraine in 2017; and the hacking of international sport and antidoping organizations in 2018, including the Canadabased World AntiDoping Agency and the Canadian Centre for Ethics in Sport.“Canada remains steadfast in its solidarity with allies and partners in calling out malicious statesponsored cyberactivity. We remain committed to working with partners to maintain the open, reliable and secure use of cyberspace, and we call upon Russia to cease these activities immediately.”"
353,"Lima Group Ministerial Meeting February 20, 2020 Chair’s Statement",https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/02/lima-group-ministerial-meeting-february-20-2020-chairs-statement.html,2/20/20,2020, statements," Members of the Lima Group met in Gatineau, Quebec, to reiterate our unity and unwavering commitment to the return of democracy in Venezuela, based on our fundamental values, principles and positions expressed in our previous statements.  This includes a strict adherence to the rule of law and respect for human rights. Venezuela has been led down a path of economic collapse, human rights abuses, increased criminality and environmental destruction. The human suffering has reached an intolerable level. This only adds to the urgency for a peaceful and democratic way out of this rapidly deteriorating crisis.Venezuelans must be the ones to lead any return to democracy in Venezuela.  To this end, the Venezuelan people must have a voice in deciding their future.  While the Venezuelan Constitution calls for parliamentary elections in 2020, democracy will be fully restored in Venezuela only through free, fair and credible presidential elections. This process must include an independent National Electoral Council, an unbiased Supreme Court, international support and observation, full press freedom and political participation of all Venezuelans.While it is for Venezuelans to determine, the international community has a crucial role to play.  Today the Lima Group issues an appeal to the international community to join us in supporting a democratic future for Venezuela.  The world needs to come together to stop the human tragedy in Venezuela.In the coming days and weeks, representatives of the Lima Group will engage in an intensive period of outreach and consultation with all countries that have an interest in the restoration of democracy in Venezuela.  We believe it is time to send a clear and unequivocal message to Venezuelans that the time is now to end this crisis and that the international community stands ready to support this process."
354,Itinerary for Lima Group Ministerial Meeting in Gatineau,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/02/itinerary-for-lima-group-ministerial-meeting-in-gatineau.html,2/19/20,2020, media advisories," The Lima Group Ministerial Meeting will take place in Gatineau, Quebec, on February 20, 2020.
The designated media centre at the Canadian Museum of History, 100 Laurier Street, in Gatineau, will be accessible from 8:00 a.m. ET to 5:00 p.m. ET.
Media representatives will be required to present photo ID in order to receive their accreditation badges. Only media representatives who received confirmation of their accreditation by email will be able to access the event.
Event: Opening remarks from The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Canada and Gustavo MezaCuadra, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Peru. Time: 10:00 a.m. ET Location: 100 Laurier Street, Gatineau, Quebec Notes: Open to accredited media. Media representatives wishing to participate should gather in the media filing room no later than 9:15 a.m. ET for an escort to the meeting room.A livestream will be available on:Twitter @CanadaFP and in Spanish on @EmbCanVenezuelaFacebook Canada’s Foreign Policy  Global Affairs Canada and in Spanish on Embajada de Canadá en Venezuela
Event: Family photo Time: 12:20 p.m. ET Location: 100 Laurier Street, Gatineau, Quebec  Notes: Open to accredited media. Media representatives wishing to participate should gather in the media filing room no later than 11:45 a.m. ET for an escort to the Family photo location.
Event: News conference Time: 2:15 p.m. ET Location: 100 Laurier Street, Gatineau, Quebec Notes: Open to accredited media.   Media representatives wishing to participate should gather in the media filing room no later than 1:45 p.m. ET for an escort to the News conference location.A livestream will be available on:Twitter @CanadaFP and in Spanish on @EmbCanVenezuelaFacebook Canada’s Foreign Policy  Global Affairs Canada and in Spanish on Embajada de Canadá en Venezuela"
355,Update - Minister of Foreign Affairs to hold media teleconference following CARICOM meeting,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/02/minister-of-foreign-affairs-to-hold-media-teleconference-following-caricom-meeting.html,2/18/20,2020, media advisories," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, will hold a media teleconference from the CARICOM meeting in Barbados.
Date: Tuesday, February 18, 2020Time: 5 pm AST (4 pm ET)Notes for media: Media representatives wishing to participate in the teleconference should dial 18668057923 or 6139607518. The access code is 4687335#."
356,Canada to host ministerial meeting of the Lima Group,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/02/canada-to-host-ministerial-meeting-of-the-lima-group.html,2/18/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced that Canada will host the next ministerial meeting of the Lima Group in Gatineau, Quebec, on February 20, 2020.The members of the Lima Group, joined by regional observers of the Lima Group – Dominican Republic, Ecuador, and El Salvador – will meet to discuss how to establish broad international cooperation for a regionally led solution to the crisis in Venezuela. The meeting will also reaffirm Canada’s unwavering commitment to a peaceful return to democracy for Venezuelans.Canada is a cofounder of the Lima Group, created in August 2017, which brings together countries from Latin America and the Caribbean to lead the regional efforts supporting a peaceful solution to the political, economic and humanitarian crisis in Venezuela."
357,Minister Ng launches public consultations on possible modernization of Canada-Ukraine Free Trade Agreement ,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/02/minister-ng-launches-public-consultations-on-possible-modernization-of-canada-ukraine-free-trade-agreement.html,2/15/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, today announced the launch of public consultations on the possible modernization of the CanadaUkraine Free Trade Agreement (CUFTA).On July 2, 2019, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced their mutual interest in expanding the existing CUFTA.This builds on the longstanding personal and economic relationship between Canada and Ukraine and speaks to Canada’s continued commitment to supporting Ukraine as it becomes a stable and prosperous country.The entry into force of CUFTA on August 1, 2017, was an important milestone in the CanadaUkraine bilateral relationship. It has generated significant growth in bilateral trade over the past few years and has created commercial benefits for Canadians and Ukrainians alike.Consultations on modernizing this agreement will provide businesses, industry and all Canadians the opportunity to help Canada define its interests in its negotiations with Ukraine. They will inform how the government diversifies and expands Canada’s preferential access to Ukraine while ensuring that this creates opportunities that will benefit everyone.All Canadians are encouraged to participate in the consultation, which will take place from February 15 to March 16, 2020.To share your views or concerns on a potential modernization of the CUFTA, please visit Global Affairs Canada consultations."
358,International Coordination and Response Group for the victims of Flight PS752: Advancing on the framework for cooperation with Iran ,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/02/international-coordination-and-response-group-for-the-victims-of-flight-ps752-advancing-on-the-framework-for-cooperation-with-iran.html,2/15/20,2020, statements," Canada, Ukraine, Sweden, Afghanistan and the United Kingdom, the members of the International Coordination and Response Group for the victims of Flight PS752, held a second inperson meeting on the margins of the Munich Security Conference today to advance work on the framework of cooperation with Iran presented in London, United Kingdom, on January 16, 2020.Today, the ministers of the coordination group will present a letter to Mohammad Javad Zarif, Iran’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, in which they reaffirm the need to provide closure, accountability, transparency and justice for the families and loved ones of the victims.During a brief discussion with Minister Zarif, the ministers of the coordination group pressed Iran to continue to take necessary active steps toward the resolution of the many crucial questions of fact and of law raised by the downing of the flight. The group’s ministers urged a transparent and thorough safety investigation, in compliance with the standards and practices of the International Civil Aviation Organization. They also called for timely and equitable compensation consistent with international precedents. Lastly, the group’s ministers urged Iran to complete a thorough and transparent criminal investigation of the downing of PS752.In addition, the Coordination Group also discussed the need to improve aviation security and air travel near or over conflict zones."
359,Parliamentary Secretary Oliphant concludes visit to Australia,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/02/parliamentary-secretary-oliphant-concludes-visit-to-australia.html,2/15/20,2020, news releases," Rob Oliphant, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, today concluded a successful visit to Australia where he delivered remarks at the seventh AustraliaCanada Economic Leadership Forum, in Melbourne. The forum is one of the premier events that underpin CanadaAustralia economic relations, attracting major business and political leaders from across both countries.While in Australia, Parliamentary Secretary Oliphant visited the Victoria State Control Centre, which directs efforts to deal with the devastating bushfires. He met with a large group of Canadian fire specialists to thank them for their efforts and proudly representing Canada. Canada has provided 238 fire management personnel, among other support since the beginning of December 2019, and is prepared to do more if required. The CanadaAustralia collaboration in forest management demonstrates a dedicated and practical approach to resource management, public safety and security.During his trip, he met with the Governor of the State of Victoria, the Honourable Linda Dessau, the President of the Senate, Senator the Honorable Scott Ryan, and Senator the Honorable Simon Birmingham, Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment, to strengthen opportunities in the bilateral trade relationship. The Parliamentary Secretary and the Minister participated in a panel discussion with Canadian and Australian business leaders to address how both countries can build on their existing trade and investment to diversify further throughout the fastgrowing AsiaPacific region. In particular, this includes taking advantage of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for TransPacific Partnership (CPTPP). Parliamentary Secretary Oliphant welcomed the launch of the AustraliaCanada Indigenous Economic Partnership, a key component of the seventh AustraliaCanada Economic Leadership Forum."
360,Government of Canada evacuating Canadians on board Diamond Princess cruise ship,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/02/government-of-canada-evacuating-canadians-on-board-diamond-princess-cruise-ship.html,2/15/20,2020, news releases," Ensuring the health and safety of Canadians is our top priority.The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Health, and the Honourable Harjit Sajjan, Minister of National Defence, today announced that the Government of Canada has chartered a plane to repatriate Canadians on board the Diamond Princess cruise ship docked in Yokohama, Japan.This decision was taken because of the extraordinary circumstances faced by passengers on the Diamond Princess and to lighten the burden on the Japanese healthcare system. We are working closely with Carnival Cruise Lines and the Government of Japan to assist in this evacuation.The aircraft will bring passengers from Japan to Canadian Forces Base Trenton, after which they will be assessed and transported to the NAV Canada Training Institute in Cornwall, Ontario, to undergo a further 14day period of quarantine.Before boarding in Japan, passengers will be screened for symptoms. Those who exhibit symptoms of COVID19 will not be permitted to board and will instead be transferred to the Japanese health system to receive appropriate care.Those who remain in Japan will continue to receive full consular services from the Government of Canada.In addition to experts from the Public Health Agency of Canada and Canadian Armed Forces medical personnel, four members of the Standing Rapid Deployment Team (SRDT) are on the ground in Tokyo to assist Canadians during this difficult time.We will continue to provide more information on travel plans for returning to Canada as it becomes available. In the meantime, we ask all Canadians aboard the Diamond Princess to continue to follow recommendations for protecting their health and the health of others while under Japanese quarantine.Canadians in countries affected by COVID19 are encouraged to sign up with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service to receive the latest updates from the Government of Canada.Canadians in Japan in need of emergency consular assistance can contact the Embassy of Canada to Japan in Tokyo at +81 (0) 354126200 or email tokyoconsul@international.gc.ca. Canadians can also contact Global Affairs Canada’s 24/7 Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa at +1 613 996 8885 or email sos@international.gc.ca."
361,Readout: Minister of Foreign Affairs meets with Iran’s foreign minister ,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/02/readout-minister-of-foreign-affairs-meets-with-irans-foreign-minister.html,2/14/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today met with Mohammad Javad Zarif, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Iran.Minister Champagne reiterated that Canada is seeking closure, accountability, transparency and justice for the victims of this tragedy, including a thorough, credible and transparent investigation.The two also discussed the download and analysis of PS752’s black boxes. Minister Champagne reiterated that the preferred option of the International Coordination and Response Group is for Iran to make use of the facilities offered by France, which possesses the technical capacity to perform this work.Minister Champagne also stressed the importance of a fair and equitable compensation settlement for the families of the victims, based on international standards.The two agreed to remain in close touch."
362,Update: Minister of Foreign Affairs to highlight Canada’s Foreign Policy at Montreal Council on Foreign Relations,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/02/minister-of-foreign-affairs-to-highlight-canadas-foreign-policy-at-montreal-council-on-foreign-relations.html,2/14/20,2020, media advisories," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, will deliver a speech on Canada’s foreign policy priorities and objectives at the Montreal Council on Foreign Relations. A media availability will follow.
Event: SpeechDate: Friday, February 21, 2020Time: 1 p.m. ETLocation: Montreal Ballroom, Bonaventure Hotel Montreal, 900 De la Gauchetière West, Montréal, QuebecNotes for media:

Media representatives wishing to participate should arrive no later than 12 p.m.
For accreditation at the event, media should contact Alexandra Johnston or call 5146530974.
A livestream of the speech will be available on:Twitter: @CanadaFPFacebook: Canada’s foreign policy  Global Affairs CanadaLinkedIn: Global Affairs Canada

Event: Media AvailabilityDate: Friday, February 21, 2020Time: 1:45 p.m. ETLocation: SaintLaurent Room, Bonaventure Hotel Montreal, 900 De la Gauchetière West, Montréal, QuebecNotes for media:

Media representatives wishing to participate should arrive no later than 12 p.m.
For accreditation at the event, media should contact Alexandra Johnston or call 5146530974."
363,Readout: Minister Champagne meets with China’s foreign minister,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/02/readout-minister-champagne-meets-with-chinas-foreign-minister.html,2/14/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, met with his Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, State Councillor and Minister of Foreign Affairs, on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference in Germany. Minister Champagne raised the cases of Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor, which are a priority for the Government of Canada. The two ministers also discussed China’s response to the ongoing coronavirus outbreak. Minister Champagne expressed Canada’s solidarity with the people in China affected by this emergency and pledged our continued assistance. He further acknowledged China’s assistance in repatriating more than 400 Canadians from Wuhan."
364,Update – International Coordination and Response Group for victims of Flight PS752 to meet on sidelines of Munich Security Conference,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/02/international-coordination-and-response-group-for-victims-of-flight-ps752-to-meet-on-sidelines-of-munich-security-conference.html,2/13/20,2020, media advisories," The International Coordination and Response Group for the victims of Flight PS752 will meet on February 15, 2020, in Munich, Germany. The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, will attend.
Event: Meeting of the International Coordination and Response Group for the victims of Flight PS752Date: Saturday, February 15, 2020Location: Bayerischer Hof Hotel, Bibliothek Room, Munich, GermanyTime: 10:45 am CET (4:45 am ET)Note: Photo opportunity. Only accredited media to the Munich Security Conference will be given access.
Event: Joint media availabilityDate: Saturday, February 15, 2020 Location: HypoVereinsbank, Press Conference Hall, Munich, Germany Time: 12:30 pm CET (6:30 am ET) Note: Only accredited media to the Munich Security Conference will be given access."
365,Minister Champagne attends Munich Security Conference,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/02/minister-champagne-attends-munich-security-conference.html,2/13/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, will attend the Munich Security Conference in Munich, Germany on February 14 and 15.On the sidelines of the conference, Minister Champagne will host a meeting of the International Coordination and Response Group for the victims of flight PS752.While at the conference, Minister Champagne will meet with counterparts to discuss matters of mutual importance and opportunities for future collaboration."
366,Address by Minister Gould at Canadian Partnership for Women and Children's Health (CanWaCH) and Canadian Council for International Co-Operation (CCIC) celebration for International Development Week (IDW) 2020,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/02/address-by-minister-gould-at-canadian-partnership-for-women-and-childrens-health-canwach-and-canadian-council-for-international-co-operation-ccic-c.html,2/13/20,2020, speeches," Ottawa, OntarioCheck against delivery. This speech has been translated in accordance with the Government of Canada’s official languages policy and edited for posting and distribution in accordance with its communications policy.I would like to acknowledge the land on which we gather is the traditional and unceded territory of the Algonquin nation.Thank you to the Canadian Partnership for Women and Children's Health, and the Canadian Council for International CoOperation, for organizing this event to celebrate International Development Week 2020.Nearly 30 years ago, the Government of Canada dedicated the first week of February to highlighting the actions of Canadian international assistance workers striving to improve peoples’ lives and our planet’s wellbeing.Since then, we take this opportunity to celebrate the vision Canadians have for a better world, and to celebrate the people, like many of you in this room, who are committed to working every day to help improve the lives of the most vulnerable people around the world. The whole international assistance landscape has transformed over the last 30 years. We have made important strides in effectiveness, coordination, advancing gender equality, and innovation. We are seeing real advances in health outcomes, access to education, and food security, among others.But we have also seen new threats from climate change, the rise of populism and isolationism, massive displacements and greater humanitarian needs.The challenges the world faces are global in nature. As Canadians we need to, we must remain steadfast in our commitment to International Development.Because a more stable, secure and prosperous world matters for the stability, security and prosperity of Canadians.The drive to help the poorest and most vulnerable is fundamental to the Canadian identity. This was true 30 years ago, and remains true today. It is what guides us in our commitment to implement Agenda 2030.This is about supporting the empowerment of Indigenous women in Guyana to make their own flour and stake out financial independence.It’s about using innovative technology and existing cellphone networks to make getting a birth certificate in Tanzania possible.It’s about supporting young women in Bangladesh to study postnatal care and help mums and babies succeed.And it’s about projects like Sama Sama in Ghana or the hard work from the Canadian Foodgrains Bank that we just heard about.Allow me to extend and add my congratulations to both iDE and Jim Cornelius for the inaugural impact and innovation awards.Canada’s international assistance and the important work of Canadian development organizations like all of you has made a difference. There is no doubt of that.As we enter the UN decade of delivery, Canada’s commitment to reaching the UN Sustainable Development Goals agenda is more important than ever.That is why this year’s IDW theme is “Go for the Goals”, to highlight the urgency that exists, push for greater awareness, and build momentum for the decade of action that remains. Canadians are engaged and they are passionate about our role in the world. There are 2.5 million Canadians who will participate in IDW activities this year. That is awesome. But what about the Canadians who aren’t following our activities. Are we doing a good enough job of telling them our story? Of sharing why the work we do matters to them?Last month, I had the privilege of travelling to the Congo and the Democratic Republic of Congo.While in the DRC, I visited an IDP camp. I had the privilege of speaking with the people living there, seeking refuge from violence, living in the most challenging conditions. 45% of the households in this camp of 3,000 were led by women. One young mother who had just arrived, told me she walked for one week with her two children and her mother to reach the safety the camp afforded. They arrived wearing only the clothing on their backs. They had barely eaten throughout their journey.She undertook the trek so her two boys could find safety. So she could begin to build a life where they had a chance.Her story is all too familiar. There are 40 million people around the world who are internally displaced. One is in ten of them are in the DRC. Canadian support is reaching our world’s most vulnerable populations. Meeting this young woman, who courageously led her family to safety, reaffirmed for me the vital work that Canada does, and that you and your organizations, do around the world.It reaffirmed to me why providing support to this woman and her family matter for Canada. Inequality and instability in the world does not serve the interests of Canadians, be it at home or abroad, does not serve the interests of Canadians.A poorer world reduces our own opportunities, and a more unstable world is a threat to our own security.You have stories too. Stories of how Canadians and Canadian organizations are making an impact. Contributing to better maternal, newborn and child health. Improving access to SRHR. Immunizing millions of children against polio.It strikes me that what we should also be doing during International Development Week, is to retell the role Canadian civil society has played and continues to play in shaping the development agenda of the Government of Canada.Polio is a prime example of where Canadian civil society has been – and continues to be – a key driver of Canada’s commitment to eradicating polio globally. And I want to acknowledge the important role of Rotary International in being an early and committed champion.More recently, the role you played in the development of Canada’s Feminist International Assistance Policy cannot go without comment. I was incredibly fortunate to attend many of the consultations that your organizations participated in and I am so delighted to be able to deliver on our policy that is truly a reflection of your input.I would also like to highlight your vision and leadership as a sector when you came together in an unprecedented way to ask the Government to prioritize a truly comprehensive health and rights agenda. We listened and were able to announce the Thrive agenda last June at Women Deliver.Because of your advocacy, because of your commitment, Canada now has a 10 year strategy on global health for 2030. This means we are going to deliver SRHR services to 18 million women around the world. That is profound.I want to thank you for your fierce dedication to development. I want to thank you for your belief in a better world. I want to thank you for your continued advocacy.We will continue to need to work together, in partnership, to deliver our Feminist International Assistance Policy. To end poverty and hunger, to achieve gender equality, to foster peace, prosperity, and partnerships, and to protect the planet for today and future generations. I am excited to carry on this important endeavour with you.We count on you to share your expertise and experience. To continue to have the conversations with local leaders, health workers, and women’s groups at the community level. And to share with the government, and with me as Minister, what you have heard.My commitment to you is to continue to engage, continue to listen and learn and to be an ally and partner to reach our development objectives.But I too need your help. You have extraordinary networks of Canadians who are passionate about development. I’d like to challenge you to think creatively together as a sector about how you can leverage those networks to reach the Canadians who are compassionate, who care about the world, about our environment, fighting climate change and inequality, to share why our international development matters just as much to them.As I have said before, Canada’s international efforts need to be embraced as part of our national identity just as much as peacekeeping has become part of the Canadian identity.So, I look to all of you, to continue the extraordinarily important work you are doing, and to reach out to Canadians and talk about why development matters and why, as Canadians, we can be proud of the role we play. You are champions of the work you are doing – in health and nutrition, gender equality and empowerment, education, and so much more. Reach out to your networks. Share your stories, and please collaborate strategically on how best to communicate on the impact our work has around the world.As Prime Minister Trudeau says:“Together, we can shape a world where no one goes hungry, no one feels unsafe, and no one is left behind.”Thank you!"
367,Statement to mark International Day against the Use of Child Soldiers,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/02/statement-to-mark-international-day-against-the-use-of-child-soldiers.html,2/12/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Honourable Karina Gould, Minister of International Development, and the Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of National Defence, today issued the following statement to mark the International Day against the Use of Child Soldiers:“Recruiting children into conflict and using them as instruments of war is a grave violation of human rights. Whether they are forced to act as messengers, porters or spies, or made to carry a weapon, involving children and youth in conflict needlessly exposes them to danger, puts their lives at immediate risk and imposes on them a psychological burden that may last forever.“Canada is proud to have introduced 17 principles focusing on preventing the recruitment and use of child soldiers by armed forces and armed groups, known as the Vancouver Principles, in 2017. Since then, 94 countries have joined Canada to address the issue of child soldiers in the context of United Nations peacekeeping operations. We are thankful to the United Nations and many member states that are working to implement the Vancouver Principles.“In June 2019, the Canadian Armed Forces established the Dallaire Centre of Excellence for Peace and Security as a demonstration of Canada’s continued commitment to the Vancouver Principles. Named after LieutenantGeneral (Retired) Roméo Dallaire, a vocal advocate against the use of child soldiers, the core mandate of the centre is to support research, drawing on a diversity of expertise and perspectives from across academia and civil society to fulfill its mandate.“The International Day against the Use of Child Soldiers is an important time to restate our commitment to keeping all children out of conflict and calling for an end to all grave violations against them during armed conflict, including recruitment and sexual violence.“Canada will work with its partners all over the world to put an end to the endangerment of children.”"
368,Update: Media registration for ministerial meeting of Lima Group in Gatineau,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/02/media-registration-for-ministerial-meeting-of-lima-group-in-gatineau.html,2/12/20,2020, media advisories,"Philippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, has announced that Canada will host the next ministerial meeting of the Lima Group in Gatineau, Québec, on February 20, 2020.
The members of the Lima Group will meet to discuss the ongoing political, economic and humanitarian crisis in Venezuela and express their solidarity with the people of Venezuela. 
Media representatives who wish to cover the Ministerial must apply for accreditation using the Government of Canada accreditation portal: www.accreditationcanada.gc.ca/lima. The online portal is now open and will close on February 18, 2020, at 5:00 p.m. EDT. Only accredited media with an identification badge will have access to the Ministerial. There will be no exceptions made to this accreditation requirement.
Entry formalities and visas
If you are travelling to Canada, please check before arriving to find out whether you need an entry visa. Visaexempt foreign nationals are expected to have an Electronic Travel Authorization for air travel to Canada. Exemptions include U.S. and Mexican citizens, and travellers with a valid Canadian visa. You may also refer to Travel Canada to find out what documents are needed to enter Canada.
Pickup of media accreditation badges
Media representatives who have been approved for accreditation will be provided instructions through email on how, when and where to pick up their badges.
Official program details and further information for the media will be made available soon."
369,"Government of Canada repatriates more Canadians and their families from Wuhan, China",https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/02/government-of-canada-repatriates-more-canadians-and-their-families-from-wuhan-china.html,2/11/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Health, and the Honourable Harjit Sajjan, Minister of National Defence, today announced that Canada’s second chartered plane has arrived from Wuhan, in China.At 6:17 AM today, 130 Canadians and 56 accompanying family members travelling on the Government of Canada’s second chartered plane from Wuhan, China, arrived at CFB Trenton. They join the 213 Canadians who returned from Wuhan on the first Canadian chartered flight and a U.S. flight that landed in Canada last week.Passengers were met in Trenton by Canada Border Services Agency officers, and were thoroughly assessed upon arrival by quarantine officers from the Public Health Agency of Canada. None of the passengers have exhibited symptoms of the novel coronavirus upon arrival.They will stay in isolation for 14 days and undergo the same medical assessment and observation as those who were repatriated on the previous flights. The Government of Canada continues to work with provincial, territorial and local health authorities to ensure that the returning Canadians and their family members receive all the medical and ongoing support necessary to protect their health and the health and safety of all Canadians.Canada has also provided approximately 16 tonnes of personal protective equipment, such as clothing, face shields, masks, goggles and gloves to China since February 4, 2020.Consular officials remain in contact with Canadians in China who have requested assistance. This was the last planned flight from Wuhan.Canadians in China outside of Hubei province whose presence is nonessential should consider leaving while commercial means are available. We encourage Canadians in China to consult our Travel Advice and Advisories and Travel Health Notices, and register with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service at travel.gc.ca.Those in need of consular assistance can contact the Embassy of Canada to China in Beijing directly at 86 (10) 51394000. Canadians can also call Global Affairs Canada’s 24/7 Emergency Watch and Response Centre (EWRC) in Ottawa at +1 6139968885 (collect calls are accepted where available) or email sos@international.gc.ca.Furthermore, to support global efforts to combat the 2019 novel coronavirus, the Honourable Karina Gould, Minister of International Development, today confirmed that Canada is providing $2 million to the World Health Organization to help vulnerable countries prepare and, if necessary, respond to coronavirus events. Canada continues to support other global initiatives that are helping to strengthen health systems and improve early detection of viruses such as the novel coronavirus."
370,Minister Ng concludes successful visit to South Africa and trade mission to Kenya and Ethiopia,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/02/minister-ng-concludes-successful-visit-to-south-africa-and-trade-mission-to-kenya-and-ethiopia.html,2/10/20,2020, news releases," Today, the Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade concluded a successful visit to South Africa, Kenya and Ethiopia. The visit highlighted Canada’s position as an important trading and investment partner with the dynamic economies of Africa.At the Investing in African Mining Indaba conference, in South Africa, Minister Ng explored opportunities for new investments and partnerships by promoting Canada’s new leadership on the world stage in innovative technologies and clean solutions that tackle climate change. She also highlighted that doing business with Canada means Canadians and Africans can count on the highest standards of good governance, environmental protections and responsible business practices.In Kenya, Minister Ng led a trade mission of Canadian companies to foster more connections between the two countries and help businesses grow, as well as to create prosperity for both nations.The Canadian business delegation went on to Ethiopia, where Minister Ng joined Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to strengthen Canada’s economic ties with Ethiopia, particularly in sectors such as clean technology and infrastructure.Prime Minister Trudeau and Minister Ng met with Ethiopian businesses and government officials to highlight Canada’s desire to work toward a foreign investment promotion and protection agreement that would mean better access to each other’s markets and more opportunities and jobs for Canadians and Ethiopians alike.In all three countries, Minister Ng met with many of her African ministerial counterparts and local business leaders to discuss key areas of cooperation, including women’s economic empowerment, open and rulesbased trade, and sustainable growth that benefits everyone."
371,"Minister of Foreign Affairs and Minister of Health to provide an update on the consular situation in Hubei Province, China",https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/02/minister-of-foreign-affairs-and-minister-of-health-to-provide-an-update-on-the-consular-situation-in-hubei-province-china.html,2/6/20,2020, media advisories," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Health, and Dr. Theresa Tam, Chief Public Health Officer (CPHO), will provide an update on the consular situation in Hubei Province, China.
Event: Media availability Date : Thursday, February 6, 2020Location: National Press Theatre, 150 Wellington Street, Ottawa, OntarioTime: 12:30 p.m. ET
Note: The media availability will also be held by teleconference. Tollfree (Canada/US) dialin number:18662060153. Passcode: 3363173#"
372,Readout: Call of International Coordination and Response Group for the victims of PS752,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/02/readout-call-of-international-coordination-and-response-group-for-the-victims-of-ps752.html,2/4/20,2020, news releases," The International Coordination and Response Group for the victims of Flight PS752 held its fifth meeting yesterday by teleconference.The participants were representatives of:CanadaAfghanistanSwedenUkraineUnited KingdomAll countries used the opportunity to update on their respective repatriation processes.Importantly, they agreed on the need for continued pressure to secure closure, accountability, transparency and justice for the victims of flight PS752.All countries are concerned with Iran’s failure to release the black boxes. Annex 13 to the Convention on Civil Aviation requires this take place without delay. Iran must release the black boxes immediately as a demonstration of continued willingness to have a full and transparent account of this event.Minister Champagne shared with the group that he had made an official approach to the International Civil Aviation Organization on this matter with Transport Minister Marc Garneau last Friday.Furthermore, all participants are committed to finding common ground on legal options for negotiations with Iran regarding its responsibility in this act in order to bring justice, including equal compensation to the families of the victims of flight PS752."
373,Statement for 30th International Development Week,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/01/statement-for-30th-international-development-week.html,2/3/20,2020, statements," Ottawa, Ontario – The Honourable Karina Gould, Minister of International Development, today issued the following statement:“On the occasion of the 30th International Development Week [IDW], I am reminded of the incredible generosity and compassion that Canadians demonstrate here at home and around the world. Nearly 30 years ago, the Government of Canada dedicated the first week of February to highlighting the actions of Canadian international assistance workers who strive to improve peoples’ lives and our planet’s wellbeing. Since then, every year, we take this opportunity to celebrate the vision Canadians have for a better world. “Canada has a long history of working with our international partners in helping the most vulnerable people around the world. We are committed to taking action that focuses on building a more peaceful, inclusive and prosperous world for everyone. Actions like ensuring millions of children are vaccinated against illnesses like polio, supporting the transition to lowcarbon and climateresilient economies and making education a reality for thousands of girls around the world—these are just three examples of Canada’s international assistance and the important work of Canadian development organizations and workers making a difference in the lives of people around the world. “There have been notable successes in Canadian international assistance since we started marking IDW in 1991 but there remains more to do, and Canadians are committed to continue their efforts to push for a better world for everyone. This is why, as of 2015, Canada is supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals [SDGs] agenda. The SDGs chart a course, telling us what remains to be done at home and abroad to get us to that better world by 2030. There are 17 SDGs, including ending poverty and hunger, achieving gender equality, and making sure people are healthy and have access to education, water and energy.“Now, as we enter the UN decade of delivery, Canada is committed to partnering with the world to reach our goals. Which is why the theme of this year’s IDW is ‘Go for the Goals.’ This IDW is an opportunity for all Canadians to learn what Canada is doing on climate change, gender equality and health at home and abroad, and how they can contribute. “I encourage you to participate in our partner activities taking place from coast to coast to coast—in person and online. Seek out the Canadians who work and support Canada’s international assistance. Talk to them. Learn their stories. Find out how Canada has helped to change the world over the years, what we are doing today and how we will move forward as we continue to focus on delivering Agenda 2030. I hope it inspires you to get more involved in making the world a better place for everyone. It’s up to all of us to Go for the Goals.”"
374,"Government of Canada evacuating Canadians from Wuhan, China",https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/02/government-of-canada-evacuating-canadians-from-wuhan-china.html,2/2/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Health, and the Honourable Harjit Sajjan, Minister of National Defence, today announced the Government of Canada’s plan to assist Canadians who have requested help in departing from Wuhan.Government officials have reached out to Canadians and are continuing to offer information and assistance. The Government of Canada has chartered a plane that is standing by. It will land in Hanoi, Vietnam and deploy to Wuhan, where the airspace is currently closed, once the Government of China has given authorization to land. Work is also underway to comply with other Chinese requirements, including providing manifest details in advance of the flight departure and further documentation on the Canadians wishing to depart. Additionally, government officials and Canadian Armed Forces medical personnel are currently on their way to Hanoi and in the process of obtaining the necessary visas from the government of China to enter Wuhan.Canadian officials are in constant contact with Canadians who have requested assistance to facilitate their departure from the affected region. Staff from the Embassy of Canada to China in Beijing, as well as members of Global Affairs Canada’s Standing Rapid Deployment Team, are now deployed to Wuhan to prepare for the departure of the flight.To protect the health and safety of Canadians—both those who are coming to and those already in Canada—the returning individuals will undergo a thorough health screening before boarding, during the flight and upon arrival at CFB Trenton, Ontario.The Government of Canada is working with provincial, territorial and local health authorities to support Canadians who may require further medical attention to be safely transferred to the healthcare system upon their arrival. All other returning Canadians, including staff and flight crew, will remain at CFB Trenton for 14 days for further medical assessment and observation, and be provided with all the necessary medical and other supports as needed to ensure the health and safety of all Canadians.Canadians in China in need of emergency consular assistance can contact the Embassy of Canada to China in Beijing at 86 (10) 5139 4000. Canadians can also call Global Affairs Canada’s 24/7 Emergency Watch and Response Centre (EWRC) in Ottawa at +1 613 996 8885 (collect calls are accepted where available) or email sos@international.gc.ca. It is important to note that individuals in Hubei Province must contact the EWRC in advance to make the necessary arrangements to access the evacuation flight."
375,"Minister Ng to visit South Africa, Kenya and Ethiopia to deepen Canada’s economic engagement in the region",https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/02/minister-ng-to-visit-south-africa-kenya-and-ethiopia-to-deepen-canadas-economic-engagement-in-the-region.html,2/1/20,2020, news releases,"class jobs for the people in our countries.Minister Ng will travel first to South Africa where she will participate in the Mining Indaba Conference. She will highlight the sector’s significant collaboration with governments and local communities to develop natural resources in a way that promotes economic growth, reduces poverty, meets the highest environmental standards and respects human rights.Minister Ng will then travel to Kenya and Ethiopia where she will lead a delegation of Canadian clean tech companies, entrepreneurs, manufacturers, and producers to meet with local businesses and industry leaders to discuss clean growth opportunities for all three of our countries.In Ethiopia, Minister Ng will join Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to promote trade and investment, and unlock new opportunities for people and businesses in Canada and around the world.Throughout the visit, Minister Ng will continue to advocate the importance of deepening Canada’s trade relationships with this diverse and dynamic continent to foster economic prosperity for all."
376,Readout: Foreign Minister holds call with Chinese counterpart,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/01/readout-foreign-minister-holds-call-with-chinese-counterpart.html,1/31/20,2020, news releases," Last night, FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, held a phone call with his Chinese counterpart, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi.The two discussed the recent outbreak of coronavirus in China. Minister Champagne expressed his solidarity with the people of China suffering from the outbreak and offered Canada’s assistance. He commended the Chinese government’s factbased response to this difficult situation.  He also asked for the collaboration of the Chinese government in helping those Canadian citizens who want to depart the region to which State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang responded positively. Minister Champagne also raised the cases of Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor.The two agreed to remain in touch on issues of mutual importance."
377,Address by Minister Gould at Massey College,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/01/address-by-minister-gould-at-massey-college.html,1/31/20,2020, speeches," Toronto, OntarioCheck against delivery. This speech has been translated in accordance with the Government of Canada’s official languages policy and edited for posting and distribution in accordance with its communications policy.First and foremost, thank you for inviting me to participate in today’s conference. The topic, liberal internationalism then and now, couldn’t be more timely.As we celebrate 100 years since the birth of the original Prime Minister [Pierre Elliott] Trudeau, it is worthwhile to reflect on what has changed since his time in office and what remains the same and where Canada’s current approach to the world is going and should go.This is such an important conversation to have as we face a challenging and uncertain world. But let me lay out an argument for optimism and for being dogged in our commitment to the Canadian way.There are some in Canada who are arguing for a more realist approach to our international relations, for abandoning our steadfast commitment to the rulesbased international order and for not always playing by the rules. Nobody else does; why should we?There are those who argue we shouldn’t bother to do our part in dealing with the climate emergency. Since other countries aren’t doing their part, why should we change our way of life?In fact, we saw this approach begin to play out, denigrating the United Nations and multilateralism, picking and choosing which human rights to defend, abandoning international commitments on the fight against climate change, snubbing our nose at the very institutions we, as Canadians of all parties, worked so hard to build through the postwar era.Isolationism, populism and an inward focus are traits that haven’t been accepted by the majority of Canadians. They do not view our country’s role on the world stage as a hindrance but rather as an opportunity.As a scholar of international relations, I’ve always identified as a liberal internationalist and probably seemed at times a little naive to my more realist professors and peers. But as I take on this new role of minister of international development, I am reminded of why optimism and a commitment to a better, more connected world is a defining feature of Canada’s foreign policy.As Canadians, as citizens of a middle power, we understand too well that our own selfinterest lies in a more peaceful, stable, equitable world. The events in Iran these past few days and the tragic loss of so many fellow citizens are a stark reminder of this reality. We are not insulated from the instability in the Middle East.To achieve a more peaceful, stable, equitable world, we must go beyond diplomacy and defence and ensure a strong commitment to development. We need to start seeing development not just as a tool in our foreign policy tool kit but as a defining pillar of what we are able to achieve on the world stage.Pierre Trudeau understood this.While the idea came about under his predecessor, Prime Minister Pearson, Pierre Elliott laid the table for Canada’s emergence on the world stage as a credible, compassionate, fair and reliable partner. The creation of the Canadian International Development Agency [CIDA] and the International Development Research Council [IDRC] are two legacies of Mr. Trudeau.When I was parliamentary secretary for the minister of international development in 2016, I was at a conference in Nairobi [Kenya]. I must have met with over a dozen heads of state and foreign ministers from different African countries, and all of them, without fail, had a fond connection to CIDA, and each shared with me a story of education, health service provision, research or women’s rights advocacy that was enabled because of Canadian development assistance.Because of Canadians’ commitment to a better world, these stories continue when we meet the hundreds of former IDRC scholars and grantees around the world who are now leading their countries or international organizations.And that is the image that Canadians hold dear. It is the story we tell ourselves of our commitment to a better, more peaceful world, and it is what we are continuing to try to achieve.As minister of international development, I am confronted by the juxtaposition of the image of Canada in the postwar era, in a time of broad international cooperation among Western countries, a united front in the fight against communism and the building of a rulesbased international order with the image of Canada we want to project today, in a fractured Western world where populism and isolationism are rearing their heads in the politics of some of our closest allies.So why should we enthusiastically embrace liberal internationalism in a time of global turmoil and uncertainty? Wouldn’t we be better off retreating into our own quiet corner of the world?For me, it is a resounding no, and in fact, I think we need to double down on our efforts to project our values and work with allies and partners to protect and improve those institutions, systems and rules that ensure our collective prosperity and security.I just came from a portfolio where one of my primary responsibilities was defending our democracy against malicious foreign actors. The threats are real. We are living in a moment when worldviews are confronting each other, and our story will be shaped by how we react.This is true in the way that Jean Chrétien’s government responded in the wake of 9/11 or in the leadership and compassion of New Zealand’s Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern following the attacks in Christchurch.Because the rulesbased international order is under threat, we, as Canadians, need to live by and lead with our values. Not just because it is the right thing to do around the world but because it is the right thing to do for Canadians.I understand that for some, this is an uncomfortable concept: placing our development work and agenda with our own selfinterest. But it is crucial for us to see it this way. Because the issues we face here at home will not be solved through diplomacy or defence alone: development is the key to unlocking these challenges.Whether it is climate change, migration and refugee flows, global health pandemics or food security [among other issues], the world is a connected place. We cannot ignore the changes on the horizon, and if we want to shape the response and we want to protect what we have here at home, we must be active players globally, particularly for development.This means building on the longstanding Canadian traditions of standing up for human rights, for justice and for democracy. For working on the hardest issues that many choose to avoid, in the toughest places, and being Canadian about it, so that we can reach those most in need.This is why I am so proud to be able to implement Canada’s Feminist International Assistance Policy, launched by MarieClaude Bibeau in June 2017. We are transforming the way we do development. In fact, Mark Lowcock, the head of the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, stated, in response to our genderfocused humanitarian assistance, “Canada has set a standard that many others around the world should seek to emulate.”Canada’s Feminist International Assistance Policy is, I believe, the single most important innovation in Canadian international cooperation since the creation of CIDA and IDRC.It forces us to tackle the root cause of poverty and instability: inequality. And it grounds our development programming in the fundamental belief that all people—regardless of gender or sexuality, race, religion or creed—have the same inalienable human rights. And that we cannot achieve the Sustainable Development Goals if we leave half the world’s population behind.Even more importantly, we cannot aspire to gender equality if we ignore sexual reproductive health and rights. A woman’s right to choose and her ability to access family planning and safe abortion services are fundamental to achieving a more equitable, more peaceful and more prosperous world.In August 2017, I took a trip to Ethiopia. I was in a small village outside of Mekele, and we stopped at the local health clinic. There were a halfdozen women there to greet us.We talked about the vaccination program and nutrition for children and how these have made significant health improvements in their community. And then the talk moved on to birth control.And one woman talked about autonomy over her body and her reproductive life. And how it transformed the power dynamics in her marriage. How she became the community health practitioner and contributed to the family income. How her husband had to respect her because she earned a good income. And, finally, how her daughter, who was 15, could see her as a role model and see that women could be selfsufficient and how her daughter was now in high school with the ambition of becoming a nurse.Sexual and reproductive health and rights not only are essential in their own right, they also serve as catalysts helping us achieve our other development goals: food security, economic development, improved health outcomes and better education.You can support women’s economic empowerment, but all the programming in the world will not make a difference if women aren’t actually participating in the economy because they can’t access child care or don’t have control over their reproductive options. And yes, that includes access to safe and legal abortion.CIDA became known around the world for its commitment to women’s rights. In 1976, they launched the first policy guidelines, in Women in Development, and in 1999 CIDA launched the Gender Equality Policy. Since 2017, we have reignited Canada’s full commitment to women’s rights globally. This is particularly exciting in 2020.This year marks the 25th anniversary of the Beijing Conference on Gender Equality and the 20th anniversary of UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security.Sadly, we are seeing major setbacks in women’s rights and human rights around the globe. We are witnessing an increase in attacks on human rights defenders, women and LGBTQ [lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer] activists, journalists and prodemocracy movements. Despite this, I have no intention of slowing down our commitment to human rights and women’s rights. Because as Hillary Rodham Clinton famously said in Beijing, “Women’s rights are human rights.”As you all know, the world has changed in the last 25 years, let alone the last 50 years. The way we do development has also changed. Canada needs to catch up and once again be an innovative, cuttingedge leader, doing development the right way.But the first step in crafting the Feminist International Assistance Policy was coming to terms with reality.Less than 3% of Canada’s international assistance specifically targeted gender equality, close to 30% of our programming was completely gender blind, and we spent what could be graciously described as token amounts supporting women’s rights organizations in the global south.This is what we sought to change. The policy gives us the framework to do just that.Another exciting innovation is the Equality Fund. This collective, involving the Government of Canada and feminist organizations, will leverage over $1 billion in philanthropic and genderlens investing to provide predictable and reliable funding to women’s rights organizations around the world.Until now, less than 1% of global official development assistance actually reaches women’s rights organizations. Canada is changing this by helping to build the civic space that allows new, empowering structures to be constructed.Unfortunately, it is a sad reality that there are increasingly frequent attempts to roll back the progress that has been made in relation to women’s rights and gender equality.Therefore, it is incumbent upon all of us to help protect the progress we have made and to do what we can to contribute to the empowerment and advancement of voices that have been traditionally marginalized.To do this, I need your help. It’s all well and good for us to sit here and discuss the merits and virtues of liberal internationalism and why Canada absolutely must remain committed to our international institutions, our rulesbased order and doing our part to respond to global crises, manmade or otherwise. But we have to convince Canadians that this is also the right thing to do. With populism, isolationism and individualism knocking at our door, it cannot be left to the government alone.Take, for example, the critical role that civil society played in bringing governments forward to ban landmines. This is why we believe so strongly in supporting and working with civil society organizations.I think of the pivotal leadership role that Canada played in bringing together the Global Compact for Migration, an achievement we should be incredibly proud of. Canada is a world leader in migration and refugee policy, with the creation of the World Refugee Council, which Lloyd Axworthy heads, and with the promotion of a new narrative on migrants and refugees globally.In Canada, we continue to look for those difficult issues that will make a real and tangible difference in the lives of everyday people. There are two particular things that the government did in the last mandate that stood out to me as exceptionally bold, courageous and incredibly Canadian.The unwavering support Canada provided to the White Helmets in Syria and the subsequent work to bring many of them here, and the quiet work the Government of Canada did to bring LGBTQ activists here as refugees.Canada did this because it was the right thing to do. Because we live our values and we lead on issues that other countries won’t.As a liberal internationalist and a feminist, I am proud that Canada is now a leading donor globally for gender equality and women’s rights organizations and the leading donor globally for comprehensive sexual and reproductive health and rights. But for all you foreign policy experts in the room, I want you to think of these achievements as Canadian foreign policy achievements.So as we, Canada, look to the future and our ability to play in the world arena, we must continue to be on the vanguard of advancing human rights, upholding justice and defending democracy. We must do our part to address looming global challenges, particularly when it comes to climate change and protecting our environment, and continue to build on the vital work defending migrants and refugees the world over.Humanitarian needs are deep, and we will continue to support the poorest, the most vulnerable. We will do it, guided by our Feminist International Assistance Policy. Ensuring it is anchored in human rights and gender equality.These are complicated times we live in, absolutely. In my humble opinion, that just means we continue to pursue a more just, a more peaceful and a more prosperous world in our Canadian way, adapting to the changing landscape.I hope we can count on you not only to challenge, question and push us to be better, but also to stand with us when our values and our commitment to liberal internationalism and the rulesbased international order need to be defended.Thank you."
378,Canada-European Union agreements to continue to apply to the United Kingdom during Brexit transition period,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/01/canada-european-union-agreements-to-continue-to-apply-to-the-unitedkingdom-during-brexit-transition-period.html,1/31/20,2020, statements," Global Affairs Canada today issued the following statement:“The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland (U.K.) and European Union (EU) are both important partners for Canada and Canadian businesses. Canada welcomes the EU and the U.K. reaching a mutually agreeable path forward on the U.K.’s orderly departure from the EU, which includes a transition period until at least December 31, 2020. “Over the past few years in preparation for Brexit, our government has actively worked with U.K. ministers and government officials, including having our Prime Ministers directly engaged, to ensure a solid path forward for our two countries.“We know that continuity and stability is important for Canadians, as well as for our businesses and entrepreneurs as they export and do business with the U.K.“During the Brexit transition period, all CanadaEU agreements will continue to apply to the U.K. This includes the CanadaEU Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA)—which means that trade between Canada and the U.K. will continue to benefit from dutyfree access on 98% of products, and businesses should see no change in how they trade with the U.K. during this transition period.“Canadian travellers should also not experience any changes in travel to and from the U.K.“We are committed to continuing to strengthen our relationships with both the EU and the U.K. to advance our economies, and to help our entrepreneurs grow their businesses and create more jobs for people across our countries.”Related productsCanada Gazette notice: Canada’s international agreements with the European Union postBrexitAssociated linksCanadaEuropean Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade AgreementDoing business in the U.K."
379,Ukraine sanctions,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/01/ukraine-sanctions.html,1/29/20,2020, backgrounders,"The Special Economic Measures (Ukraine) Regulations impose asset freezes and dealings prohibitions on listed persons by prohibiting persons in Canada and Canadians outside of Canada from dealing in any property of these individuals or providing financial or related services to them.The specific prohibitions are set out in the Regulations.Effective immediately, Canada is imposing sanctions against:Yekaterina (Ekaterina) Borisovna ALTABAEVAVladimir Vladimirovich NEMTSEVMikhail Vladimirovich RAZVOZHAEVSergei (Sergey) Andreyevich DANILENKOYekaterina (Ekaterina) Eduardovna PYRKOVALidia (Lydia) Aleksandrovna BASOVA"
380,Canada imposes new sanctions on individuals involved in illegitimate elections in Crimea,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/01/canada-imposes-new-sanctions-on-individuals-involved-in-illegitimate-elections-in-crimea.html,1/29/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, announced today that Canada is imposing sanctions under the Special Economic Measures Act on six individuals involved in the illegitimate elections held in Russianoccupied Crimea on September 8, 2019, in concert with the United States and the European Union.Today’s coordinated action underscores the continued transatlantic unity in responding to Russia’s aggressive actions in Ukraine and its violations of international law."
381,Statement by Foreign Minister on the release of U.S. Middle East Peace Plan,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/01/statement-by-foreign-minister-on-the-release-of-us-middle-east-peace-plan.html,1/28/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement:“Canada remains committed to the goal of achieving a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in the Middle East. This includes the creation of a Palestinian state living side by side in peace and security with Israel and ensuring Israel’s security within its own borders.“Canada recognizes the urgent need to renew efforts toward a negotiated solution to the IsraeliPalestinian conflict, and will carefully examine the details of the U.S. initiative for the Middle East peace process.“Canada has long maintained that peace can only be achieved through direct negotiations between the parties. We urge the parties to create the conditions for such negotiations to take place.“Canada reaffirms its readiness to support meaningful dialogue between the parties toward a negotiated and viable twostate solution.”"
382,Statement on International Holocaust Remembrance Day ,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/01/statement-on-international-holocaust-remembrance-day.html,1/27/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement to mark International Holocaust Remembrance Day: “On this 75th anniversary of the liberation of the Nazi Concentration and Extermination Camp of AuschwitzBirkenau, we remember the more than six million Jewish men, women and children brutally murdered by the Nazi regime and its collaborators in the Shoah. We also honour the countless Romani, LGBTQ2 individuals, persons with disabilities and political dissidents who were killed as well as those who stood against the horrors of the Nazi atrocities.“The Holocaust is a horrific reminder of what can happen when sovereign acts of discrimination and intolerance go undenounced. What began with inflammatory rhetoric to dehumanize and degrade the Jews of Europe evolved into the systematic and deliberate revocation of rights, theft of property, incarceration, and ultimately, mass extermination.“As the years following the Holocaust grow, and the voices of survivors are fewer, it is vital that we work together to ensure that future generations of Canadians learn about this dark chapter so it is never forgotten. This is why Canada will continue to denounce those who use antisemitic language or engage in antisemitic behaviour, and condemn attacks on human rights. We also firmly reject any denial of the Holocaust and stand on guard against historical amnesia.“In 2019, Canada adopted the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance definition of antisemitism. Last week, Canada supported the adoption of the 2020 International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance Ministerial Declaration in which we, and all members of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance, recommitted to the principles of the Declaration of the Stockholm International Forum on the Holocaust.“Seven decades after the liberation of AuschwitzBirkenau, Canada solemnly stands with all those who stand for justice and human rights to say with one voice: Never again.”"
383,Minister Bains and Minister Ng conclude a successful week at the World Economic Forum,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/01/minister-bains-and-minister-ng-conclude-a-successful-week-at-the-world-economic-forum.html,1/25/20,2020, news releases," Ottawa, Ontario – Canada’s diverse talent, access to new and growing markets, and progressive and open trade are all vital to Canada’s economic prosperity and lead to good jobs and opportunities for the middle class. This week, the Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, the Honourable Navdeep Bains, and the Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, the Honourable Mary Ng, showcased Canada on the international stage at the World Economic Forum’s Annual Meeting in Davos, Switzerland.The Ministers met with their international partners and business leaders from around the world to talk about how Canada is an excellent, stable place to invest and do business.Minister Bains participated in sessions where he reaffirmed Canada’s commitment to science, research, technology and innovation and underscored the government’s desire to bring zeroemission vehicle manufacturing capacity to Canada.In addition, Minister Bains announced our support of Mastercard’s project to help establish a new global Intelligence and Cyber Centre in Vancouver, British Columbia with an investment of $49 million. The Centre will focus on creating technologies and standards to ensure that Canadians and others around the world can safely use any device that could be connected to the Internet—phone, tablet, computer, vehicle—without concern that their personal and financial information could be stolen.Minister Ng led discussion groups at the WEF Stewards meeting about the future of trade and the global economy, and promoted progressive trade deals as a way to create more opportunities and jobs for Canadians across the country.Minister Ng also highlighted how an inclusive approach to trade policy ensures that all people benefit from the increasingly interconnected world – including women, Indigenous entrepreneurs, and small businesses.As Chair of the Canadaled Ottawa Group on WTO Reform, Minister Ng led efforts to modernize and strengthen the World Trade Organization (WTO) – to create a more transparent, predictable system for businesses in Canada and around the world. She advanced discussions on how we can ensure trade disputes are resolved effectively, as well as how Ottawa Group members can help organize a successful 12th WTO Ministerial Conference in June 2020.Minister Ng and her international partners spoke about key issues under discussion at the WTO such as ecommerce, investment facilitation, and fisheries subsidies – with a focus on giving businesses the stability they need to succeed. Meaningful agreement is needed at the next WTO Ministerial Conference to ensure sustainable management of the world’s fish resources – which we know is important for Canadian businesses in this sector.Minister Ng also endorsed the Cairns Group Ministerial Statement on Agriculture, which reaffirms WTO members’ commitment to reforming agriculture trade in the longterm, to making progress across all areas under negotiation, and to supporting Canadian farmers and producers. She closed the week at the WEF at the WTO miniministerial meeting hosted by Switzerland where she briefed her counterparts on her discussions with the Ottawa Group on WTO reform and how it will benefit Canadian businesses from coast to coast to coast."
384,Canada supported projects in Morocco,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/01/canadian-supported-projects-in-morocco.html,1/24/20,2020, backgrounders,"During his visit to Morocco, the Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, announced 2 Canadasupported projects totalling more than $13.9 million. The projects will address priorities shared by Canada and Morocco, including women’s economic empowerment and entrepreneurship and sustainable economic development.Development of forestry cooperatives and empowerment of women in the Middle Atlas ($8.2 million over 5 years)In partnership with the Société de coopération pour le développement international [international development cooperation society], this project will support the integration of women in economic activities related to growing rosemary and cedar. It will include programs on the importance and benefits of egalitarian relationships within households, literacy and women’s leadership and administrative management. These programs will be coupled with fields of study combining technical agrienvironmental considerations and climate change adaptation, as well as gender awareness.Empowering women through sustainable entrepreneurship ($5.7 million over 5 years)In partnership with Care Canada, this project aims to strengthen the capacity of new enterprises and the acceleration of existing cooperatives. The goal is to create profitable and sustainable economic enterprises with opportunities for women in the labour market."
385,Minister Champagne concludes successful visit to Morocco,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/01/minister-champagne-concludes-successful-visit-to-morocco.html,1/24/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today concluded a successful visit to Morocco, which focused on expanding the strategic relationship between the two countries.During the visit, Minister Champagne met with Saad Eddine El Othmani, Prime Minister of Morocco, and Nasser Bourita, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, to discuss shared priorities, such as peace, stability, gender equality and commercial ties.  Minister Champagne also announced a collaboration between Global Affairs Canada and the Moroccan Academy of Diplomatic Studies to provide diplomatic training in Morocco to young diplomats from African countries including Morocco.The Minister also participated in a town hall event with students at the HEM Institute for Advanced Studies in Management in Rabat."
386,Statement by Canada on interim arrangement for appealing trade disputes through WTO,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/01/statement-by-canada-on-interim-arrangement-for-appealing-trade-disputes-through-wto.html,1/24/20,2020, statements," A rulesbased international trading system is essential to the success of Canadian businesses exporting on the world stage. Institutions such as the World Trade Organization have been instrumental in establishing binding rules of global trade and reducing tariffs, which creates predictable market conditions for businesses to be able to grow and succeed.Today in Davos, Switzerland, on the margins of the World Economic Forum, Canada and 16 other members of the WTO committed to work together to put in place an interim arrangement for appealing trade disputes. This arrangement will be open to all WTO members and will benefit Canadian companies by restoring access to a disputeresolution system for international trade with the participating countries.The announcement today builds on the pioneering work of Canada and the EU, which resulted in the July 2019 CanadaEU bilateral interim appeal arbitration arrangement for WTO disputes. Canada’s participation is a reflection of the country’s commitment to reform and modernize the WTO and to make the international trading system more stable. This will help attract investment to Canada and improve Canadian businesses’ access to the world.Finding a longterm solution for appointments to the WTO Appellate Body remains a key priority for Canada. The multiparty interim arrangement will remain in place only until the WTO Appellate Body is able to resume its work.Canada is committed to finalizing this interim arrangement with its partners as quickly as possible and will work to secure broad support and participation from the WTO membership.Associated linksStatement by ministers, Davos, Switzerland, 24 January 2020"
387,Canada welcomes International Court of Justice ruling on interim measures on Myanmar,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/01/canada-welcomes-international-court-of-justice-ruling-on-interim-measures-on-myanmar.html,1/23/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement:“Canada welcomes the unanimous decision taken today by the International Court of Justice [ICJ] to apply interim measures in the current case between The Gambia and Myanmar concerning the Genocide Convention. We urge the Government of Myanmar to fully comply with this decision and to cooperate with the ICJ.“Canada has been a strong and consistent advocate for accountability in Myanmar since the onset of the current crisis in August 2017. We have supported The Gambia in its case, including through the attendance at proceedings in The Hague by the Honourable Bob Rae, the Prime Minister’s Special Envoy to Myanmar.“We will continue to work with our partners, including the Netherlands, to determine the most effective means to support The Gambia’s efforts. We are considering all options.”Associated linksCanada’s response to the Rohingya crisis in Myanmar and Bangladesh"
388,Canadian supported projects in Mali,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/01/canadian-supported-projects-in-mali.html,1/23/20,2020, backgrounders,"These projects will address numerous shared priorities in the region, including sexual and reproductive health rights, food security, promoting women and girls’ education and economic empowerment, maternal and neonatal health services, and supporting conflict prevention, peacekeeping and stabilization efforts in the region.Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights and Innovations in Kayes ($20 million over 5 years)In partnership with the Université de Montréal  Unité de santé internationale and the Centre d'étude et de coopération internationale, the project aims to enable more than 640,000 women and adolescent girls in the Kayes region to benefit from quality health services by improving their knowledge and increasing their decisionmaking power and ability to act on their sexual and reproductive health and rights.Nutritional Resilience and Food Security of the Most Vulnerable in Mali ($20 million over 4 years)In partnership with UNICEF, the UN World Food Programme and the UN Food and Agriculture Organization, this project aims to strengthen the resilience of 250,000 people (including 140,000 women) in the regions of Mopti and Ségou by improving the food, nutritional and health security and increasing agricultural productivity and incomes, while addressing the effects of climate change on food security in Mali.Inclusive financing of agricultural commodity chains ($16 million over 4 years)In partnership with the International Fund for Agriculture Development, the project aims to improve the financial inclusion of Malian rural populations, organizations and enterprises (particularly women) excluded from the traditional financial system in order to improve their resilience to climatic, social and economic shocks. The project will reach 400,000 direct beneficiaries (50% of whom are women) from the regions of Ségou, Koulikoro, Sikasso, Kayes and Mopti. Promoting girls’ education in Mali ($10 million over 5 years)In partnership with CowaterSogema International, this project aims to improve the school performance of more than 16,000 adolescent girls (1315 years old) in the second cycle of basic education in Mali. The project works to improve access and retention of adolescent girls in targeted schools in the Segou region of central Mali and strengthens the capacity of the Ministry of Education to reduce barriers to adolescent girls' education and promote quality, gendersensitive education at the national level.Improving Access to Maternal and Neonatal Health Services in Mali (SPOTLIGHT +) ($8 million over 3 years)In partnership with the UN Population Fund, this project aims to contribute to the reduction of maternal mortality and morbidity of more than 500,000 women and girls by strengthening the health system for improved availability and access to services in the regions of Kidal, Ménaka, Gao, Timbuktu, Mopti, Ségou and Bamako.UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission (MINUSMA) Trust Fund in Support of Peace and Security in Mali (amendment of $1.8 million over 2 years)The increase of an additional $1.8M brings Canada’s contribution to the MINUSMA Trust Fund to $9.8M and will provide additional resources towards the implementation of the peace process, including stabilization initiatives to restore state authority to the north, reinforcement of social cohesion, the peaceful resolution of inter and intracommunity tensions, and the protection of civilians in northern and central Mali.Stabilization of Mali through the Truth, Justice and Reconciliation Commission ($1.6 million for one year)In partnership with Lawyers Without Borders, this project aims to strengthen the capacity of Mali's Truth, Justice and Reconciliation Commission, in particular its investigation and truthseeking units. The project supports the implementation of the Algiers Peace Agreement and is complementary to the role of the United Nations Integrated Multidimensional Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) in its efforts with the Truth, Justice and Reconciliation Commission.Arms and Ammunition Management for More Stability in the Sahel Region (amendment of $1.5 million for 1 year)In partnership with the Mines Advisory Group, this initiative seeks to reduce the flow of illicit arms and to prevent the proliferation of weapons and ammunition in the Sahel.  This project focuses on regional cooperation between local authorities, rehabilitation of armories, weapons marking and management, as well as targeted capacity building interventions in Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger. Reducing the flow of arms reinforces conflict prevention, peacekeeping and stabilization efforts in the region.Police deployments to the Alioune Blondin Beye Peacekeeping SchoolCanada has deployed two police officers as trainers to the Alioune Blondin Beye Peacekeeping School in Mali where they will focus on providing training in community policing techniques. Canada deploys police through the a partnership between , the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and Public Safety Canada,  This deployment is in addition to the 19 police officers currently serving with MINUSMA and EUCAP Sahel Mali and will be in place until January 2021."
389,"Minister Champagne concludes visit to Mali, continues on to Morocco",https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/01/minister-champagne-concludes-visit-to-mali-continues-on-to-morocco.html,1/23/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today concluded a visit to Mali that focused on the important and longstanding bilateral relationship between the 2 countries.Canada and Mali have been close partners for more than 50 years. Canada is one of the primary donors of international assistance to Mali and is actively engaged in efforts to further its peace and security, including through the deployment of military and police expertise to the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA). Canada has also been integral in providing essential aeromedical evacuation, transport and logistical support to the mission in Mali.While in Mali, the Minister met with the President, Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta, as well as with Tiébilé Dramé, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Amadou Koïta, Minister for Malians Living Abroad.He also met with the leadership of MINUSMA and with Canadian police and military officers currently deployed as part of peacekeeping and stabilization efforts as well as representatives of civil society and of Canadian mining companies.During his visit, Minister Champagne announced funding for 8 projects totalling more than $78.9 million, as well as the deployment of 2 police trainers to the Alioune Blondin Beye Peacekeeping School in Bamako, Mali.Minister Champagne will continue to Morocco, where he will meet with Prime Minister Saad alDin alOthmani, as well as with Nasser Bourita, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, to will discuss the strengthening of bilateral relations between the 2 countries in areas of mutual interest such as economic growth, trade, education, gender equality and development."
390,"Minister Ng to participate in the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland",https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/01/minister-ng-to-participate-in-the-world-economic-forum-in-davos-switzerland.html,1/21/20,2020, news releases," Open, transparent and rulesbased multilateral trade and investment policies contribute to growth and prosperity for all Canadians and lead to highvalue jobs for middleclass workers.The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, will attend the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting from January 22 to 24, 2020, in Davos, Switzerland.At the Forum, Minister Ng will lead Canada’s continued efforts in reforming and strengthening the World Trade Organization (WTO). She will chair the Canadaled Ottawa Group on WTO reform and join the WTO miniministerial meeting hosted by Switzerland.Minister Ng will also participate in WTO meetings focused on issues vital to Canadians and Canadian businesses, including investment facilitation, digital trade and ecommerce, and the Cairns Group on agriculture and agrifood exports.She will engage international partners and global business leaders to showcase Canada as a key destination for international investors. Minister Ng will also promote Canada’s leading businesses and innovators to the world."
391,Canada reaffirms its commitment to fighting antisemitism and remembering victims of the Holocaust,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/01/canada-reaffirms-its-commitment-to-fighting-antisemitism-and-remembering-victims-of-the-holocaust.html,1/20/20,2020, news releases," Canada remembers and honours the more than 6 million Jewish people who were systematically murdered by the Nazi regime during the Holocaust. We honour the survivors, those who stood against the horrors of the Holocaust and countless others who suffered unimaginable hardship and loss.On Sunday, Canada recommitted to the principles of the Declaration of the Stockholm International Forum on the Holocaust and supported the adoption of the 2020 International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance Ministerial Declaration. The Government of Canada was represented by Rachel Bendayan, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade.Canada adopted the declaration along with 34 International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) member countries at the IHRA Ministerial Meeting in Brussels, Belgium. This event marks the beginning of a yearlong acknowledgement and commemoration of the 75th anniversary of the liberation of the AuschwitzBirkenau concentration and extermination camps.At a time of rising antisemitism in Canada and around the world, education and remembrance of the horrors of the Holocaust are more important than ever. To do so, Canada is continuing its work to combat antisemitism with a $45 million investment in an antiracism strategy announced by the government last year."
392,Readout: Call of International Coordination and Response Group for victims of PS752,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/01/readout-call-of-international-coordination-and-response-group-for-victims-of-ps752.html,1/20/20,2020, news releases," Members of the International Coordination and Response Group for the victims of PS752 held a call yesterday to update each other on the work they have been undertaking since their meeting last week at Canada House in London, United Kingdom.Participants included representatives from Canada, Ukraine, Sweden, Afghanistan and the United Kingdom.Minister Champagne updated the group on his meeting with his Iranian counterpart, Javad Zarif, last week in Muscat, Oman. Vadym Prystaiko, Ukraine’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, also briefed the group on a meeting he held with his Iranian counterparts earlier in the day.All countries noted that Iran is cooperating with foreign experts in the investigation to date. They emphasized that it is imperative that Iran allow for a thorough and credible international safety investigation into the causes of the crash. They insisted, furthermore, that Iran assume full responsibility, including by providing compensation.Members of the ICRG call on Iran to move the black boxes to a facility with all of the technology and expertise required to quickly and reliably download and analyze the data without delay, as prescribed by Annex 13 of the International Convention on Civil Aviation. Iran has indicated it is willing to do so.All countries agreed to remain in close contact as they pursue closure, accountability, transparency and justice for the families and loved ones of the victims."
393,Canada announces funding to provide humanitarian assistance to flood-affected people in the Republic of Congo and to fight Ebola and other crises in the Democratic Republic of Congo,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/01/canada-announces-funding-to-provide-humanitarian-assistance-to-flood-affected-people-in-the-republic-of-congo-and-to-fight-ebola-and-other-crises-i.html,1/17/20,2020, backgrounders,"specific and other humanitarian needs. Activities will include providing:food distributions and nutrition assistance to vulnerable populationsdrinking water, hygiene, sanitation, health services and protection (including psychosocial support to survivors of genderbased violence)logistics and coordination support, such as air services, to improve the Democratic Republic of Congo’s and neighbouring countries’ ability to prevent, detect and respond to outbreakstraining for community health workers and immunization campaignsPeace and Stabilization Operations Program: $991,699This project, implemented by Search For Common Ground, aims to reduce the spread of Ebola in the Democratic Republic of Congo’s conflictaffected region of NordKivu by encouraging positive communication between local actors helping to fight the virus, such as police officers, and vulnerable populations. Project activities will include the creation of communications tools to educate communities on Ebola in order to avoid misinformation and myths about the disease."
394,Minister Gould concludes visit to Republic of Congo and Democratic Republic of Congo,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/01/minister-gould-concludes-visit-to-republic-of-congo-and-democratic-republic-of-congo.html,1/17/20,2020, news releases," Canada values its longstanding partnerships in Africa and remains committed to working with African partners to build a more prosperous, sustainable and peaceful world.The Honourable Karina Gould, Minister of International Development, today concluded a fourday visit to the Republic of Congo and the Democratic Republic of Congo during which she met with government officials, partners and civil society to discuss collaboration on humanitarian, health, education, economic security, climate change and regional security issues. While in the Republic of Congo, the Minister announced Canadian assistance to provide support to families affected by the floods that have devastated areas of the country.In the Democratic Republic of Congo, Minister Gould announced Canada’s continued support to fight Ebola and respond to humanitarian needs. Canada’s contribution for Ebola will help control the epidemic and strengthen the health care system in the conflictaffected areas of the country.Promoting gender equality and peace and security was central to the Minister’s visit to the region. Minister Gould met with women’s rights activists and survivors of genderbased violence who, because of Canada’s assistance, are now receiving health services, psychosocial support, training and access to justice. On the last day of her visit, the Minister met with Canadian Armed Forces personnel deployed to the UN peacekeeping operation in the Democratic Republic of Congo to discuss Canada’s peacekeeping role in the region."
395,Minister Champagne meets with his Iranian counterpart,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/01/minister-champagne-meets-with-his-iranian-counterpart.html,1/17/20,2020, news releases,"January 17, 2020 – Muscat, OmanMinister Champagne met with his Iranian counterpart, Mohammad Javad Zarif, in Muscat, Oman, today.In the course of a lengthy meeting, the two discussed the Flight PS752 tragedy, for which Iran has admitted responsibility.Minister Zarif conveyed his profound regret for this terrible tragedy and Minister Champagne noted that he had met with families of victims this week who are deeply hurt and angry.Minister Champagne provided an update on the talks the International Coordination and Response Group for the victims of PS752 held yesterday at Canada House in London.The Ministers discussed the necessity of full access to Iran for officials from Canada and other grieving nations to: provide consular services, assist in ensuring victim identification meets international standards and participate in a thorough and transparent investigation. The Ministers also discussed the need for a transparent analysis of the black box data, to which Iran agreed. In addition, they discussed the duty Iran has towards the families of the victims – including compensation.Minister Zarif expressed his support for Iran continuing to work with Canada and all grieving nations in these respects. Minister Champagne noted Iran’s cooperation so far and expressed his hope that this would continue.The two committed to continue discussions as the situation evolves to ensure justice for the families of the victims."
396,Canada-Africa project announcements,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/01/canada-africa-project-announcements.html,1/17/20,2020, backgrounders,"Mozambican Rural Women’s and Girls’ Participatory Economic Empowerment ($18 million over 5 years)In partnership with the Société de coopération pour le développement international, this project aims to improve rural women’s and girls’ economic empowerment in Mozambique. The project will foster the economic empowerment of women and girl members of agricultural associations in the National Farmers’ Union and will stimulate agrifood production through experimental agroforestry and field training focused on climatesmart agriculture.Combat Absenteeism and Barriers to Education ($15 million over 5 years)In partnership with the World Food Programme, this project will help Mozambique combat absenteeism and barriers to education, particularly with regard to girls. The funds will help reduce primary school absenteeism and address and empower adolescent girls through primary school feeding, community engagement on barriers to education and distribution of menstrual hygiene kits in 5 districts in the province of Tete, which was affected by Cyclone Idai in March 2019 and by drought.Action for Girls and Young Women’s Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights in Mozambique ($10 million over 5 years)In partnership with the UN Population Fund, UNICEF, UNESCO and UN Women, this project aims to improve gender equality in Mozambique by promoting adolescent girls and young women’s sexual and reproductive health and rights. The project equips adolescent girls and young women with knowledge, skills and access to sexual and reproductive health services and aims to protect girls’ and women’s rights by engaging boys, men, families and communities in changing discriminatory sociocultural norms and behaviours.Advancing Sexual and Reproductive Health in Cabo Delgado ($250,000)In partnership with the UN Population Fund, this project will advance sexual and reproductive health in Cabo Delgado and will help increase the capacity of the Government of Mozambique to provide more effective services in areas affected by Cyclone Kenneth in April 2019.Mozambique Recovery Facility ($250,000)In partnership with the United Nations Development Programme, this project will help the Government of Mozambique’s Office for PostCyclone Idai Reconstruction undertake recovery planning and coordination of international, national and local reconstruction efforts.Reducing Mozambique’s High Trade Costs ($250,000)In partnership with TradeMark East Africa, this project will help to identify the causes of high trade costs that create an unfavourable trade environment and to identify key interventions that would reduce trade costs in Mozambique and traderelated inefficiencies along the Beira and Nacala corridors.Supporting Gender Integration into Policy Planning at the Sudanese Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare ($50,000)This project will support gender integration in policy planning at the Sudanese Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare. The funds will be used to enable the deployment of a Canadian expert to work closely with the Sudanese government in the redesign and building of the social welfare structure of Sudan, including the beginning of the implementation of a poverty reduction strategy."
397,Parliamentary Secretary Oliphant concludes visit to Africa,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/01/parliamentary-secretary-oliphant-concludes-visit-to-africa.html,1/17/20,2020, news releases," Rob Oliphant, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, today concluded a successful 7day visit to Sudan, Mozambique and Ethiopia that focused on Canada’s engagement in the region.The trip was an important opportunity to engage with African partners in a sustained and meaningful way on shared opportunities and priorities.In Sudan, Parliamentary Secretary Oliphant and Sudan’s Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok announced Canada and Sudan’s intention to reciprocally elevate diplomatic representation to the ambassadorial level. Parliamentary Secretary Oliphant also met with members of the government’s Sovereign Council, Sudanese youth and representatives of women’s organizations and Canadian and Sudanese businesses to discuss the country’s transition to a civilianled democracy.In Mozambique, Parliamentary Secretary Oliphant attended the inauguration and met with the recently reelected president, Filipe Nyusi, hosted a dinner on peace and security with representatives from across the continent, visited a health facility funded by Canada and paid respects at the Matola Raid Memorial, where the apartheid regime in South Africa assassinated 13 people in 1981.In Ethiopia, the Parliamentary Secretary met with President SahleWork Zewde and State Minister Hirut Zemene and visited the African Union (AU) to meet with the Deputy Chairperson of the AU, Kwesi Quartey. Parliamentary Secretary Oliphant also met with civil society representatives to discuss civic engagement in Ethiopia in advance of the upcoming elections. He also paid his respects to the victims of the Ethiopian Airlines Flight ET302 crash at the Embassy of Canada’s memorial to the crash.During the visit, Parliamentary Secretary Oliphant announced 7 projects of more than $43 million that will address shared priorities in the region, including promoting women’s and girls’ economic empowerment and participation and their sexual and reproductive health and rights, combatting barriers to education and providing support for critical recovery activities in the wake of cyclones Idai and Kenneth in 2019."
398,Parliamentary Secretary Bendayan to attend the Ministerial Meeting of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/01/parliamentary-secretary-bendayan-to-attend-the-ministerial-meeting-of-the-international-holocaust-remembrance-alliance.html,1/17/20,2020, media advisories,"level commemorative events for 2020 marking the 75th anniversary of the liberation of AuschwitzBirkenau and the International Holocaust Remembrance Day, on January 27.
Event: Group photoDate: Sunday, January 19, 2020Time: 7:45 pm CETLocation: Patio, Residence Palace, 155, La Loi Street, 1040, Brussels, BelgiumNote: Media representatives should arrive no later than 7:15 pm."
399,International Coordination and Response Group for the victims of Flight PS752 – Framework for Cooperation with Iran,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/01/international-coordination-and-response-group-for-the-victims-of-flight-ps752--framework-for-cooperation-with-iran.html,1/16/20,2020, statements,"person meeting at Canada House in London, UK, today and agreed upon a framework for cooperation with Iran in response to this tragedy to provide closure, accountability, transparency and justice for the families and loved ones of all the victims.The framework is centred on five key elements that will guide our engagement with the Iranian authorities to ensure:Full and unhindered access for our officials to and within Iran to provide consular services.That the victim identification process is conducted with dignity, transparency and according to international standards and that the wishes of the families regarding repatriation are respected in all cases.A thorough, independent and transparent international investigation open to grieving nations governed by the Convention on International Civil Aviation.Iran assumes full responsibility for the downing of flight PS752 and recognizes its duties towards the families of the victims and other parties – including compensation.Accountability for those responsible through an independent criminal investigation followed by transparent and impartial judicial proceedings which conform to international standards of due process and human rights.We welcome Iran’s engagement to date and encourage their continued cooperation."
400,Canada supports diplomatic efforts established for Iran to return to full implementation of Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action ,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/01/canada-supports-diplomatic-efforts-established-for-iran-to-return-to-full-implementation-of-joint-comprehensive-plan-of-action.html,1/14/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today released the following statement:“Canada strongly supports the diplomatic engagement of France, Germany and the United Kingdom in pressing Iran to respect its commitments under the agreement, including through activating the Dispute Resolution Mechanism.“Canada is a lead contributor to the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA’s) robust monitoring and verification of Iran’s implementation of its commitments. We believe that the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), when fully implemented, is the best way to restrict Iran’s ability to attain nuclear weapons capability and urge Iran to immediately restore its full commitments to the JCPOA.”Quick factsThe JCPOA was negotiated in 2015 to constrain Iran from developing a nuclear weapons capability, in exchange for the waiver of key economic sanctions on Iran from the United Nations.Since 2014, Canada has contributed $15 million to the IAEA to monitor and verify Iran’s commitments under the JCPOA, including $2 million in October 2019.The Dispute Resolution Mechanism of the JCPOA is designed to aid in resolving issues among JCPOA members (France, Germany, the United Kingdom, the European Union, Russia, China and Iran); however, should an issue not be resolved among members, the process could lead to a restoration of UN sanctions that were waived under the JCPOA."
401,Minister Gould to travel to Republic of Congo and Democratic Republic of Congo,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/01/minister-gould-to-travel-to-republic-of-congo-and-democratic-republic-of-congo.html,1/13/20,2020, news releases," Canada values its longstanding partnerships in Africa and remains committed to working with African partners to build a more prosperous, sustainable and peaceful world.The Honourable Karina Gould, Minister of International Development, today announced she will travel to the Republic of Congo and the Democratic Republic of Congo from January 13 to 17, 2020.The visit will be an opportunity for the Minister to meet with government representatives, partners and stakeholders to discuss common priorities, such as humanitarian assistance, health, gender equality, education, climate change, and peace and security."
402,"Minister of Foreign Affairs to host meeting of the International Coordination and Response Group for families of victims of Flight PS752 in London, United Kingdom",https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/01/minister-of-foreign-affairs-to-host-meeting-of-the-international-coordination-and-response-group-for-families-of-victims-of-flight-ps752-in-london-.html,1/13/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, will travel to London, United Kingdom, to convene a meeting at Canada House on January 16, 2020, of the International Coordination and Response Group for families of victims of Flight PS752 in Iran.Canada, Ukraine, Sweden, Afghanistan and the United Kingdom will meet to discuss the need for a thorough investigation and how to secure full cooperation from Iranian authorities to achieve closure, accountability, transparency and justice—including compensation—for the families and loved ones of the victims."
403,"Media registration for meeting of International Coordination and Response Group in London, United Kingdom",https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/01/media-registration-for-meeting-of-international-coordination-and-response-group-in-london-united-kingdom.html,1/13/20,2020, media advisories," On Thursday, January 16, 2020, Canada will host a meeting of the International Coordination and Response Group for the families of the victims of Flight PS752 at the High Commission of Canada, in London, United Kingdom.
Media representatives who wish to cover this event must register by 10 pm GMT (5 pm ET) on Wednesday, January 15, 2020, present valid accreditation and obtain an identification badge.
To register, please email LDNPublicAffairs@international.gc.ca. Only accredited media with an identification badge will have access to the High Commission."
404,Readout: Call of International Coordination and Response Group for families of victims of PS752,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/01/readout-call-of-international-coordination-and-response-group-for-families-of-victims-of-ps752.html,1/12/20,2020, news releases," The International Coordination and Response Group for the victims of Flight 752 held a call yesterday.The participants were representatives of:CanadaUkraineSwedenAfghanistanThe United KingdomThey agreed that, following Iran’s acknowledgement that Ukraine International Airlines Flight 752 was shot down by its own armed forces, the focus remains closure, accountability, transparency and justice — including compensation — for the families and loved ones of the victims.All countries on the call noted their concern that the British Ambassador to Tehran was temporarily detained by Iranian officials following his attendance at a vigil for the victims of flight PS752. We call on Iran to uphold the Vienna Convention.They will continue working with partners around the world to ensure a thorough investigation and also expect full cooperation from Iranian authorities, including with the issuance of visas, repatriation of the remains of victims and active involvement in all aspects of the investigation."
405,Statement on 10th anniversary of Haiti earthquake,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/01/statement-on-10th-anniversary-of-haiti-earthquake.html,1/12/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and the Honourable Karina Gould, Minister of International Development, today issued the following statement:“Today is a sombre occasion, as we remember the earthquake that devastated Haiti. Ten years have passed, and yet for many, the pain is still very real and the loss is deep. Mothers, fathers, children, partners and neighbours perished that day as hundreds of thousands of people lost their lives, including a number of Canadians.“Ten years on, it is worth remembering that when Haitians and foreigners alike saw their neighbours, family and friends in need, they came together to lend a hand. As hard as rebuilding is, real lasting change is even harder to achieve. Yet those who remained and lived through the earthquake and reconstruction and who, today, still work hard for a better and peaceful Haiti remind us of what is good and show us that there is hope.“In the face of hardship, our two nations and our people were brought closer together than ever. Solidarity, friendships and partnerships were expressed in many ways and still are. Canadians donated an unprecedented $220 million, matched by the government of Canada. From all corners of Canada, youth, doctors, nurses, engineers and teachers volunteered their time and expertise in Haiti. And through this journey of cooperation, new ties between our communities were born.“The aftermath of the earthquake that hit Haiti on January 12, 2010, is an inspiring story of commitment and compassion, and the Haitian diaspora in Canada played an important role in recovery and reconstruction efforts. Haitians who have since made Canada home have also been contributing tremendously to Canadian society, with exceptional individuals who are leaving their mark on governments, academia, industry, sports, arts and culture.“Haiti is and remains a priority country for Canada. Our development and humanitarian assistance programming in the country is ongoing, with over 50 projects currently operational, including support for maternal and newborn health, nutrition, education, and sustainable agriculture.“Today belongs to those who have lost loved ones and the bravery and resilience the Haitian people have shown against all odds. Canadians will continue to stand with Haiti as it rebuilds and addresses the challenges ahead.”"
406,Parliamentary Secretary Rob Oliphant to travel to Africa to strengthen Canada’s engagement in the region,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/01/parliamentary-secretary-rob-oliphant-to-travel-to-africa-to-strengthen-canadas-engagement-in-the-region.html,1/11/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced that Rob Oliphant, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, will travel to Sudan, Mozambique and Ethiopia from January 11 to 18, 2020.The visit is part of Canada’s ongoing commitment to engage with African partners in a sustained and meaningful way and address shared opportunities and priorities.During the visit, the Parliamentary Secretary will meet with government officials and other African partners to discuss common interests. This will include identifying opportunities to collaborate on peace and security, climate action, trade and investment, gender equality, the rulesbased international order and multilateral cooperation. He will also meet with civil society, including women and youth, to discuss civic engagement, governance, human rights, and women’s participation and inclusion in all aspect of society.In Mozambique, Mr. Oliphant will also visit a project supported by Canada and will meet with partner organizations to gain a deeper understanding of challenges and opportunities that exist in the region regarding the health, education and economic sectors."
407,Foreign Affairs Minister to Honour Victims of Flight PS752 at Vigil,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/01/foreign-affairs-minister-to-honour-victims-of-flight-ps752-at-vigil.html,1/11/20,2020, media advisories," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, will attend a vigil at the University of Alberta to honour the victims of Ukraine International Airlines Flight PS752.
Event: VigilDate: Sunday, January 12, 2020Location:  Saville Community Sports Centre, 11610 65 Avenue NW. Edmonton, AlbertaTime: 3 p.m. MSTNote: Event is open to media for photo opportunities only"
408,Readout: Minister Champagne speaks to his US counterpart,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/01/readout-minister-champagne-speaks-to-his-us-counterpart.html,1/10/20,2020, statements," Today, Minister Champagne spoke to his US counterpart, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo.The two Ministers began by speaking about the tragic crash of Ukraine International Airlines Flight 752. Secretary Pompeo expressed his condolences to the family and loved ones of the Canadians who died.The Ministers discussed the intelligence that indicates that the plane was likely shot down by an Iranian surfacetoair missile, perhaps unintentionally. Secretary Pompeo offered the US government’s full assistance in the ongoing investigation.Finally, the Ministers discussed the situation in Iraq, Iran and the region. Minister Champagne emphasized the need for a deescalation in tensions and reiterated Canada’s commitment to peace, stability and prosperity for the people of Iraq.Both Ministers agreed to remain in close touch as this situation continues to evolve."
409,Foreign Affairs Minister to provide update on plane crash in Iran ,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/01/foreign-affairs-minister-to-provide-update-on-plane-crash-in-iran.html,1/10/20,2020, media advisories," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, will hold a press conference to provide an update about the plane crash in Iran.
Event: Press conference Date: Friday, January 10, 2020 Location:  National Press Theatre, 150 Wellington Street, Ottawa, Ontario  Time: 6:00 p.m. ET Note: Journalists who are not members of the Canadian Parliamentary Press Gallery will require accreditation from the gallery in advance. For more information, contact Pierre Cuguen at pierre.cuguen@parl.gc.ca.
Outoftown journalists can also dial in to listen to the news conference. Please note these will be set up as listenonly mode lines. International callers must dial the local phone number for proper access.
Participant dialin numbers:
Local: 6139607516Tollfree: 1 8774134792Pass code: 3088658#"
410,Canada announces formation of International Coordination and Response Group for families of victims of PS752,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/01/canada-announces-formation-of-international-coordination-and-response-group-for-families-of-victims-of-ps752.html,1/10/20,2020, news releases," Earlier today, the International Coordination and Response Group for families of victims of Flight PS752, led by Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs held a call.The participants were:UkraineSwedenAfghanistanThe United KingdomAll participating countries agree on the need for a full and transparent investigation into the causes of the fatal crash so that families and loved ones can get the answers they deserve.In days and weeks to come, they will continue to remain in close contact and work closely together. They will continue speaking to other international partners to ensure transparency and accountability following this tragic event."
411,Foreign Affairs Minister to welcome counterpart from the United Kingdom,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/01/foreign-affairs-minister-to-welcome-counterpart-from-the-united-kingdom.html,1/9/20,2020, media advisories," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, will host a bilateral meeting with Dominic Raab, the United Kingdom’s Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs and First Secretary of State.
There will be a joint photo opportunity before the meeting and a joint media availability after the meeting.
Event: Photo opportunity  Date: Thursday, January 9, 2020 Location: McGill Room, 2nd Floor, Fairmont Queen Elizabeth Hotel, 900 RenéLévesque Boulevard West, Montreal, Quebec Time: 2:35 p.m. ET Note: Media should arrive by 2:05 p.m.
Event: Media availabilityDate: Thursday, January 9, 2020Location: Viger Room, 2nd Floor, Fairmont Queen Elizabeth Hotel, 900 RenéLévesque Boulevard, Montreal, QuebecTime: 4:00 p.m. ETNote: Media should arrive by 3:30 p.m."
412,Readout: Foreign Affairs Minister speaks with Foreign Minister of Iran,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/01/readout-foreign-affairs-minister-speaks-with-foreign-minister-of-iran.html,1/9/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Mohammad Javad Zarif, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Iran, had a phone call last night.The two exchanged condolences for the victims of the crash of Ukraine International Airlines flight 752 from both their countries.Minister Champagne stressed the need for Canadian officials to be quickly granted access to Iran to provide consular services, help with identification of the deceased and take part in the investigation of the crash.Minister Champagne said that Canada and Canadians have many questions which will need to be answered.Minister Champagne also condemned Iranian strikes targeting bases in Iraq where Coalition forces, including Canadians, are stationed."
413,Statement by Foreign Affairs Minister on Ukraine International Airlines Flight PS752,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/01/statement-by-foreign-affairs-minister-on-ukraine-international-airlines-flight-ps752.html,1/8/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement:“I was deeply shocked and saddened to learn that, according to preliminary reports, at least 63 Canadians were among the 176 people who were killed when Ukraine International Airlines Flight PS752 crashed after takeoff yesterday near Tehran, Iran. As more information becomes available, including regarding dual citizens, this number could change. I would like to extend my deepest condolences to those who lost loved ones in this tragic event, including citizens of a number of other countries.“The situation remains extremely fluid. I have been in touch with my Ukrainian counterpart, and will continue to speak to all relevant authorities. The Government of Canada is committed to working closely with international partners regarding any possible investigation.“We will continue to keep Canadians informed as the situation evolves.“Friends and relatives in Canada seeking information about Canadian citizens believed to be on board Flight PS752 should contact Global Affairs Canada’s Emergency Watch and Response Centre. You can do so by calling 6139968885 or 18003873124 (tollfree) or by sending an email to sos@international.gc.ca.“The Embassy of Canada to Turkey in Ankara has consular responsibility for Iran as there are no resident Government of Canada offices in Iran. Canadian citizens in Iran requiring consular assistance should contact the Canadian embassy in Ankara at +90 312 409 2700 or Global Affairs Canada’s Emergency Watch and Response Centre at +1 613 996 8885. Canadians requiring consular assistance in Ukraine should contact the Embassy of Canada in Kyiv by calling 380 (44) 5903100 or by sending an email to KYIVConsular@international.gc.ca.”"
414,Minister of Foreign Affairs to welcome U.K. Foreign Secretary to Canada,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/01/minister-of-foreign-affairs-to-welcome-uk-foreign-secretary-to-canada.html,1/8/20,2020, news releases," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced that he will welcome Dominic Raab, the United Kingdom’s Foreign Secretary and First Secretary of State, to Montréal, Quebec, on January 9, 2020.During the visit, the ministers will discuss a range of issues, including the tragic crash of Ukraine International Airlines Flight PS752, in which both Canadian and British citizens were killed, and recent developments in Iraq."
415,Statement from Minister Champagne on wildfires in Australia,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/01/statement-from-minister-champagne-on-wildfires-in-australia.html,1/5/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement on the wildfires in Australia:“Canada is deeply saddened by the mounting deaths and destruction caused by the devastating wildfires in Australia.“Since December 3, 2019, almost 100 Canadian fire management personnel have deployed to Australia, with more on the way soon. These Canadians are providing expertise and relief for the Australian staff that have been working extremely hard, and around the clock, since November.“I have communicated with my Australian counterpart to reiterate that we are prepared to consider further assistance as necessary. When wildfires spread through Canadian communities, Australia answered our call for help. We are proud to do the same.“Canadian citizens requiring emergency consular assistance should contact the High Commission of Canada in Australia at (61) 2 6270 4000 or the Consulate General of Canada in Sydney at 61 (2) 9364 3000. They may also contact Global Affairs Canada’s Emergency Watch and Response Centre by calling 001180023266831 (tollfree from Australia) or by sending an email to sos@international.gc.ca.“Canadians who wish to help can donate to the Red Cross’s Disaster Relief and Recovery fund.”"
416,Statement from Minister Champagne following the airstrike carried out by the U.S. on Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani in Iraq,https://www.canada.ca/en/global-affairs/news/2020/01/statement-from-minister-champagne.html,1/3/20,2020, statements," The Honourable FrançoisPhilippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today released the following statement on the airstrike carried out by the U.S. on Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani in Iraq:“Canada is in contact with our international partners. The safety and wellbeing of Canadians in Iraq and the region, including our troops and diplomats, is our paramount concern.“We call on all sides to exercise restraint and pursue deescalation. Our goal is and remains a united and stable Iraq.“Canada has long been concerned by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps' Qods Force, led by Qasem Soleimani, whose aggressive actions have had a destabilizing effect in the region and beyond.”"