Secretary-General of the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie to visit Canada
June 7, 2019
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced that the Secretary-General of the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie, Louise Mushikiwabo, will visit Canada from June 9 to 12.
During the visit, Prime Minister Trudeau and Secretary-General Mushikiwabo will discuss progress achieved since the Yerevan Summit on shared priorities, including advancing gender equality, defending human rights, and protecting and promoting the French language and francophone cultures. They will also discuss future goals and priorities of the Organisation, as well as the administrative modernization that the Organisation is undertaking.
Quote
“Canada is a proud member of the international Francophone community and the Organisation internationale de La Francophonie. I look forward to meeting with Secretary-General Mushikiwabo to discuss ways we can work together to address common challenges, advance gender equality, and protect and promote the French language and francophone cultures.”
—The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada
Quick Facts
- La Francophonie, whose main institution is the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie (OIF), is a group of 88 member states and governments who all share French as a common language.
- Member countries are collectively home to over 1 billion people, including 300 million Francophones, across five continents.
- Canada’s annual contribution of approximately $40 million helps the institutions, agencies and bodies of the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie to implement their respective programs.
- Canada has four seats on the OIF. In addition to federal representation, the provinces of New Brunswick and Quebec are full members, and Ontario has observer status.
- In 1969, Canada adopted its Official Languages Act. This March marked the 50th anniversary of the law.
Associated Link(s)
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau meets with President Emmanuel Macron of France
June 7, 2019
Paris, France
Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with Emmanuel Macron, President of France.
The two leaders reflected on the D-Day commemorations held in Normandy the day before and the sacrifices made by Canadian and other Allied soldiers during the Second World War.
The Prime Minister welcomed President Macron’s commitment to begin the process for ratification of CETA immediately. The Prime Minister and the President highlighted the increase in trade between Canada and France since the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) entered into provisional application in September, 2017.
The leaders also welcomed the progress made on the Canada - France Climate and Environment Partnership and discussed how the two countries can further advance their cooperation.
Prime Minister Trudeau confirmed to President Macron that Canada, in line with its contributions to peace and security in Mali and neighbouring countries, would become an Observer to the Sahel Alliance. The Sahel Alliance is a platform that allows donor countries and multilateral organizations to better coordinate international assistance in the Sahel region.
Prime Minister Trudeau and President Macron also shared perspectives on a range of pressing international priorities, including buttressing the rules-based international trading system, in the lead up to the G20 Summit in Osaka Japan later this month and the G7 Summit that France will host in Biarritz in August. The Prime Minister underlined the important role the G20 and G7 must play in promoting gender equality, including through supporting women’s economic empowerment.
The two leaders reiterated their mutual commitment to La Francophonie and discussed important international challenges, such as the crisis in Venezuela, combating violent extremism and the situation in Ukraine.
Prime Minister concludes travel to United Kingdom and France for the 75th anniversary of D-Day and the Battle of Normandy
June 7, 2019
Paris, France
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today concluded his visit to Portsmouth, Juno Beach, and Paris, where he attended commemorative events to mark the 75th anniversary of D-Day and the Battle of Normandy.
During the visit, Prime Minister Trudeau joined other world leaders in Portsmouth for a D-Day commemorative event organized by the United Kingdom. There, he paid tribute to Lieutenant-Colonel Cecil Merritt, the first Canadian awarded with a Victoria Cross in the Second World War. He also met with the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Theresa May and the Mayor of London Sadiq Khan.
Prime Minister Trudeau later attended the Canadian commemorative ceremony at Juno Beach, where he honoured Canadians who took part in D-Day and the Battle of Normandy. Following the ceremony, he walked along Juno Beach with Canadian Veterans, and listened to their personal accounts. Later in the day, he attended an international commemorative ceremony organized by France.
While in France, Prime Minister Trudeau also met with the President of France Emmanuel Macron and the Prime Minister of France Édouard Philippe. Prime Minister Trudeau and President Macron continued their discussions on France’s G7 Presidency priorities, including reducing economic inequality, advancing gender equality, and fighting climate change.
The two leaders discussed the progress made on the Canada-France climate partnership and how the two countries can further advance their cooperation on protecting our oceans and biodiversity, and reducing pollution.
Prime Minister Trudeau noted that Canada has been invited to join the Sahel Alliance as an observer and looks forward to working more closely with partners to address challenges facing the Sahel. The leaders welcomed the increase in trade and highlighted the commercial benefits for both Canada and France of the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA). The Prime Minister also welcomed President Macron’s commitment to begin the process for ratification of CETA immediately.
The Prime Minister also took part in a roundtable discussion with Canadian and French business leaders, to promote further trade and investment between Canada and France.
Quote
“For the thousands of Canadians who landed on Juno Beach 75 years ago, it was a day they could never forget. Neither can we. The living memory of the Second World War will soon pass. We share a sacred responsibility to keep Veterans’ stories alive, to recognize the cost of war, and honour their immeasurable sacrifices.”
— The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada
Quick Facts
- Portsmouth, an important British industrial city and port during the Second World War, was a major point of departure for the Allied fleet that sailed to the beaches of Normandy in June 1944.
- The Allied high command made the decision to attack on June 6, 1944 – a date that has become known to history as “D-Day.” A massive Allied force would cross the English Channel, heading for an 80-kilometre stretch of the Normandy coast. There were five landing zones assigned to the forces of Allied nations: Juno Beach (Canada); Gold Beach (United Kingdom); Sword Beach (United Kingdom and France); and Utah Beach and Omaha Beach (United States).
- On August 25, 1944, the Allies liberated Paris, officially ending the Battle of Normandy.
- More than 45,000 Canadians lost their lives during the Second World War, of whom over 5,000 were killed during the Battle of Normandy and 359 on D-Day.
- During the business roundtable, Prime Minister Trudeau met with senior leadership of the following companies: Axper, Ballard Power Systems Inc., CGI, Décathlon, Effenco, Element AI, Fonds Transatlantique, Kanata, Hootsuite, Laporte Euro, Moment Factory.
Associated Links
- 75th Anniversary of the D-Day and the Battle of Normandy
- Canada-France bilateral relations
- Canada-United Kingdom bilateral relations
- Canada-France Climate and Environment Partnership
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau meets with Prime Minister Édouard Philippe of France
June 6, 2019
Courseulles-sur-Mer, France
Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with Édouard Philippe, Prime Minister of France.
The two Prime Ministers, meeting at Juno Beach, the site where Canadian troops landed 75 years ago as part of D-Day, paid tribute to the courage and sacrifices made by Canadian soldiers in the Second World War and the indelible bonds of friendship that unite Canada and France.
Prime Minister Trudeau and Prime Minister Philippe discussed the next steps towards full ratification by France of the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA). They highlighted the increased trade between Canada and France since CETA entered into provisional application in September 2017.
The two Prime Ministers also discussed political developments in Europe, including the implications of the recent European Parliament elections.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau meets with Prime Minister Theresa May of the United Kingdom
June 6, 2019
Portsmouth, United Kingdom
Yesterday, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with Theresa May, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.
The two Prime Ministers met during the 75th anniversary commemorations of D-Day in Portsmouth, from where Canadian, British, American, and other allied troops embarked side-by-side in Operation Overlord. Prime Minister Trudeau and Prime Minister May paid tribute to the bravery and sacrifices made by Allied soldiers.
Reflecting on the rules-based international order that emerged from the devastation of the Second World War to rebuild global peace and prosperity, the Prime Ministers agreed on the need to work closely together on supporting and enhancing this order in the face of current geopolitical challenges.
Prime Minister Trudeau and Prime Minister May discussed the current status of the United Kingdom’s planning for withdrawing from the European Union. Prime Minister Trudeau reiterated his commitment to maintaining a strong relationship, as well as trade ties to continue supporting jobs & business opportunities between the two countries.
Prime Minister Trudeau and Prime Minister May shared perspectives on a range of international priorities, including relations with China, developments in the Middle East, combatting climate change, the upcoming G20 Summit in Osaka, Japan, the Commonwealth and the importance of effective international institutions.
Statement by the Prime Minister on the 75th anniversary of D-Day and the Battle of Normandy
June 6, 2019
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on the 75th anniversary of D-Day and the Battle of Normandy:
“Today, on the 75th anniversary of D-Day and the Battle of Normandy, we pause to honour those who fought and gave their lives in a campaign that helped turn the tide of the Second World War.
“Seventy-five years ago today, the largest combined military operation in history began. The Allied landings aimed to secure five beaches along the coast of occupied France. Land mines, gun positions, barbed wire, concrete bunkers, anti-tank walls, and thousands of enemy troops guarded the shores.
“It was a gamble like the world had never seen. The possibility of catastrophic casualties was high, but the Allies knew they needed to break through the Atlantic Wall to defeat the Nazis and end the war in Europe.
“Fourteen thousand Canadians stormed Juno Beach on June 6, 1944. They joined British, American, and French allies in the massive D-Day amphibious assault on the beaches of Normandy. They served under different flags, but fought for one cause. They stood up to tyranny and stood for freedom, and laid down their lives in defence of human rights and democracy.
“The magnitude of cooperation among nations was staggering. Air forces, naval forces, amphibious forces – assault infantry, paratroopers, sappers, tank crews, and gunners – all came together as one.
“They formed a mighty multinational force that would breach the Atlantic Wall and open brutal fighting throughout Northwest Europe. Eleven months later, Nazi Germany surrendered. The war would soon be over.
“For the thousands of Canadians who landed on Juno Beach 75 years ago, it was a day that they could never forget. Neither can we. The living memory of the Second World War will soon pass. We share a sacred responsibility to keep veterans’ stories alive, to recognize the cost of war, and honour their immeasurable sacrifices.
“I urge all Canadians to pause and remember the more than 5,000 Canadian soldiers who gave their lives during the Battle of Normandy. They were among the more than one million Canadians who served during the Second World War – and changed the course of history.
“Lest we forget.”
Statement by the Prime Minister on World Environment Day
June 5, 2019
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on World Environment Day:
“Today, on World Environment Day, we join the international community to celebrate the natural world and reflect on our shared responsibility to safeguard the environment for generations to come. Environmental challenges – climate change first among them – affect everyone, and it’s up to all of us to work together to face them.
“The theme for this year’s World Environment Day – beat air pollution – urges us to make changes in our daily lives to reduce air pollution and limit its effects on our health and environment.
“Air pollution is a severe global threat. It kills 7 million people worldwide every year. In Canada alone, air pollution each year contributes to over 14,000 premature deaths. It harms plants and animals, contaminates water and soil, and damages the resources we all rely on. Our health, environment, and economy do not exist in isolation. The threat posed by air pollution will only get worse – unless we do something about it.
“That is why we are taking strong action now to reduce emissions and protect our clean air and water, while helping create good, middle class jobs and drive economic growth.
“At home, we have introduced important measures to tackle air pollution from vehicles, power plants, and industries across the country. We have put a price on carbon pollution – the single most powerful way to cut greenhouse gas emissions while driving economic growth – and accelerated our plan to phase out coal by 2030. In Budget 2019, we announced investments to make zero-emission vehicles more affordable, and help communities, including those in rural and remote areas, transition to cleaner, more reliable, and affordable electricity.
“Beyond our borders, Canada is honouring its commitments under the Paris Agreement and working with international partners to fight climate change and its disastrous effects. We are a founding member of the Climate and Clean Air Coalition, a global partnership of governments, businesses, scientific institutions, and other organizations working to improve air quality and reduce pollutants that contribute to climate change and harm people’s health worldwide.
“Today, I urge all Canadians to take action now. Turn off lights and unplug devices when they are not in use. Invest in high-efficiency home heating systems and equipment. Switch to public transit, or make your next vehicle purchase a zero-emission one.
“By working together and making decisions every day that help protect our health and the environment, we can reduce air pollution, fight climate change, and build a world for our children and grandchildren that is cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable.”
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau meets with President Akufo-Addo of the Republic of Ghana
June 4, 2019
Vancouver, British Columbia
On the occasion of Women Deliver 2019, Prime Minister Trudeau met with President Akufo-Addo of Ghana. The two leaders discussed their shared commitment to advancing gender equality, and the importance of investing in grassroots organizations. Recalling the event they co-chaired at the United Nations General Assembly last year, they discussed their collective efforts to advance progress on youth employment. The two leaders looked forward to the High-Level Dialogue on Financing for Development that Canada and Ghana will co-host later this year at the United Nations.
Prime Minister Trudeau and President Akufo-Addo welcomed their collaboration on peace and security including in support of the Elsie Initiative for Women in Peace Operations. The Prime Minister stressed the importance of LGBTQ2+ rights, and offered his support for the President’s vision of a Ghana ‘Beyond Aid’. The Prime Minister and the President agreed to stay in close contact to explore areas for future collaboration.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau meets with President Sahle-Work Zewde of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia
June 4, 2019
Vancouver, British Columbia
Today, Prime Minister Trudeau met with President Sahle-Work Zewde of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia. The Prime Minister expressed his appreciation for the President’s attendance at Women Deliver and for her leadership on advancing gender equality for Ethiopians. They discussed the importance of investing in grassroots women’s organizations to drive lasting change and welcomed the launch of the Equality Fund.
The Prime Minister noted Ethiopia’s continued commitment to building peace in the Horn of Africa, making a strong contribution to stability and prosperity in the region. The two leaders spoke of their shared commitment to advancing Women, Peace and Security and support for the Elsie Initiative.
Prime Minister Trudeau welcomed the recent significant reforms and transformation in Ethiopia and took note of the elections planned for 2020. They discussed the importance of investing in infrastructure to support growth and change.
The two leaders noted the deep and warm relationship between Canada and Ethiopia, reflected in strong people-to-people ties and shared values of diversity and inclusion, particularly in the context of federalism. They looked forward to strengthening bilateral cooperation and committed to staying in close contact.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau meets with President Uhuru Kenyatta of the Republic of Kenya
June 4, 2019
Vancouver, British Columbia
Yesterday, on the occasion of Women Deliver 2019, Prime Minister Trudeau met with President Uhuru Kenyatta of the Republic of Kenya. The two leaders discussed the Education of Girls and Women in Conflict and Post-conflict Situations in Africa Conference, hosted by the Government of Kenya and the Forum for African Women Educationalists (FAWE) with the support of the Government of Canada. The Prime Minister welcomed the conference outcome, the Nairobi Call to Action, that seeks to advance shared priorities of girls’ education which was highlighted at the G7 Charlevoix Summit in 2018.
The two leaders reiterated their commitment to leadership on oceans and the blue economy as demonstrated in co-hosting the Sustainable Blue Economy Conference in Nairobi last year.
Prime Minister Trudeau and President Kenyatta discussed the importance of inclusion and LGBTQ2+ rights, as well as opportunities to expand trade between the two countries, noting the importance of small and medium sized enterprises as engines of economic growth, especially for young people. They looked forward to further deepening the Canada-Kenya relationship.
Government of Canada makes historic investment to promote the health and rights of women and girls around the world
June 4, 2019
Vancouver, British Columbia
Advancing gender equality is key to strengthening the middle class, growing the economy, and building a better world. Canada is a champion for gender equality at home and abroad. Investing in women and girls’ health, and protecting their sexual and reproductive health rights, is a critical part of that.
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced that the Government of Canada will raise its funding to reach $1.4 billion annually, starting in 2023, to support women and girls’ health around the world. A ten-year commitment, this historic investment will support sexual and reproductive health rights and maternal, newborn, and child health – with $700 million of the annual investment dedicated to sexual and reproductive health rights, as of 2023. The Prime Minister made the announcement at the Women Deliver 2019 Conference, which Canada is hosting this week in Vancouver.
This investment will advance the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, promote sexual and reproductive health rights, and build on Canada’s leadership on global gender equality. The funding will help make sure women and girls around the world have access to the quality health services they need, including safe and legal abortion, and support women’s right to make their own decisions about their bodies. From providing comprehensive sexual education, to supporting maternal and neonatal care, the investment will advance the rights and health of women and girls around the world.
Women Deliver is the world’s largest gathering on the health, rights, and well-being of women and girls. As this year’s host, Canada is continuing to take action on gender equality, and bringing together advocates from around the world. At the conference, the Prime Minister took part in the opening plenary and a panel discussion. The Prime Minister honoured the work and leadership of gender equality activists and advocates. He stressed the importance of governments stepping up to support feminist advocates on the frontlines, both in Canada and around the world.
During the conference, the Prime Minister met with the President of Ghana, Nana Akufo-Addo, the President of Kenya, Uhuru Kenyatta, and the President of Ethiopia, Sahle-Work Zewde. He also met with local feminist advocates and organizations.
Quotes
“Advocates like those at Women Deliver are leaders in the fight for gender equality and women’s rights – and as a government, we have to stand with you as a partner and an ally. Today, our government is committing $1.4 billion annually to support women and girls’ health around the world. All women, no matter where they live, should have access to the safe, quality health care they need. By investing in sexual and reproductive health rights, and maternal, newborn, and child health, we can build a more just, equal, and prosperous world.”
—The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada
“This is an historic investment in girls and women, which will pay dividends for years to come. Not only will this investment save and better lives, but it will create a ripple effect that will lift up individuals, communities, countries, and whole economies. I applaud Prime Minister Trudeau and Canada for this bold step and the commitment to a more gender equal world."
—Katja Iversen, President/CEO of Women Deliver
Quick Facts
- Held every three years, Women Deliver is the world’s largest gathering on the health, rights and well-being of women and girls. This year’s theme is “Power, Progress, Change.”
- This year’s conference brings together more than 8,000 world leaders, advocates, academics, and journalists from more than 160 countries. An additional 100,000 people will participate virtually.
- In March 2017, Canada announced $650 million over three years to address gaps in sexual and reproductive health and rights around the world.
- Every two minutes, a woman dies from complications from pregnancy or in childbirth. Most of these deaths are preventable.
- In developing countries, 214 million women have an unmet need for modern contraception.
- Each year, 25 million unsafe abortions take place due to stigma and restrictions to access of safe medical treatment.
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Associated Links
- Global health - Canada’s efforts in the developing world
- Canada and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development
- Canada’s Feminist International Assistance Policy
- Canada’s role and participation in the Women Deliver 2019 Conference
Prime Minister announces appointment of new Chief Justice of the Court of Queen’s Bench of New Brunswick
June 4, 2019
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced the appointment of the Honourable Tracey K. DeWare, a judge of the Court of Queen’s Bench of New Brunswick, Family Division, as the new Chief Justice of the Court of Queen’s Bench of New Brunswick.
Chief Justice DeWare replaces the Honourable David D. Smith, who retired effective March 20, 2019, after more than 26 years of distinguished service as a judge.
Quote
“I am happy to announce the appointment of the Honourable Tracey K. DeWare as Chief Justice of the Court of Queen’s Bench of New Brunswick. Chief Justice DeWare brings over 18 years of experience practising law in Moncton, and, more recently, nearly seven years as a judge on the province’s superior court.”
—The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada
Quick Facts
- Chief Justices in Canada are responsible for the leadership and administration of their courts. They also serve as members of the Canadian Judicial Council, which works to improve the quality of judicial service in the superior courts of Canada.
- Chief Justices are appointed by the Governor General, on the advice of Cabinet and on the recommendation of the Prime Minister.
- Justice DeWare will be the first female Chief Justice of the Court of Queen’s Bench of New Brunswick.
Biographical Notes
Statement by the Prime Minister on Eid al-Fitr
June 3, 2019
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on Eid al-Fitr:
“Tonight at sunset, Muslims in Canada and around the world will celebrate Eid al-Fitr.
“Eid al-Fitr marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan. After a month of fasting and spiritual reflection, Eid is a time for community and celebration.
“This festival is also a chance to honour the values at the heart of Islam – from service and generosity to peace and compassion. Whether it’s volunteering at a food bank or supporting local charities, Muslim Canadians show us the best of those values, all throughout the year.
“Today, let’s celebrate the many contributions Muslim Canadians make to our country. Our government will always stand with Canada’s Muslim communities. We will continue to fight against Islamophobia and hatred in all its forms, and together, we’ll keep building a better Canada.
“On behalf of our family, Sophie and I wish all those celebrating a joyful Eid.
“Eid Mubarak!”
