Prime Minister Justin Trudeau meets European Partners at G20 Summit in Osaka
June 28, 2019
Osaka, Japan
Prime Minister Trudeau met today with his European counterparts President Emmanuel Macron of France, Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany, Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte of Italy, Prime Minister Mark Rutte of the Netherlands, Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez of Spain, Prime Minister Theresa May of the United Kingdom, President of the European Council Donald Tusk, and President of the European Commission Jean-Claude Juncker.
The leaders discussed their common priorities for the G20 Summit, particularly the importance of countries working in partnership to support the rules-based international order and the key multilateral institutions that uphold it, including the World Trade Organization. They also discussed the economic opportunities and jobs flowing from the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA).
Prime Minister Trudeau and his European partners reiterated their commitment to the Paris Agreement and the need for G20 unity and action on environmental issues, including climate change and protecting our oceans.
The leaders also exchanged views on a range of geopolitical challenges, including Ukraine’s sovereignty and security and malicious cyber activity by state actors.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau meets with Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc of Vietnam
June 28, 2019
Osaka, Japan
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met today with Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc of Vietnam.
The two Prime Ministers noted the growing commercial and people-to-people ties linking Canada and Vietnam. Both leaders welcomed the increasing number of Vietnamese students selecting Canada as an education destination of choice.
Prime Minister Trudeau outlined Canada’s growing presence in the Asia-Pacific, in particular Canada’s increased economic engagement with Vietnam and other partners following implementation of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership. The leaders welcomed the increased opportunities for investment and job creation flowing from their growing trade ties.
The two Leaders also discussed Canada’s role as a strategic partner in the region, including an enhanced role for Canada at the ASEAN Defence Ministers Meeting-Plus and the East Asia Summit.
The Prime Minister also congratulated Vietnam on its election to the United Nations Security Council.
Prime Minister announces two appointments to superior courts of Ontario and Quebec
June 27, 2019
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced the appointment of the Honourable Geoffrey B. Morawetz, a Judge of the Superior Court of Justice of Ontario, as Chief Justice of the Superior Court of Justice of Ontario, effective July 1, 2019. He replaces the Honourable Heather J. Smith, who will retire on June 30, 2019, after more than 36 years of distinguished service as a judge.
Prime Minister Trudeau also announced the appointment of the Honourable Catherine La Rosa, a Judge of the Superior Court of Quebec for the district of Québec, as Senior Associate Chief Justice of the Superior Court of Quebec, effective October 1, 2019. She will replace the Honourable Robert Pidgeon, who elected to become a supernumerary judge effective September 30, 2019, after more than 30 years of distinguished service as a judge.
Quotes
“I know the Honourable Geoffrey B. Morawetz will serve Ontarians well as Chief Justice of the Superior Court of Justice of Ontario. He is highly regarded in Canada and around the world for his expertise and brings with him a wealth of experience in civil and commercial matters gained over a 14‑year judicial career.”
—The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada
“I am happy to announce the appointment of Catherine La Rosa as the new Senior Associate Chief Justice of the Superior Court of Quebec. With her extensive experience in family and human rights law, I am confident that she will be a great asset to the province’s superior court.”
—The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada
Quick Facts
- Chief Justices and Associate 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 and Associate Chief Justices are appointed by the Governor General, on the advice of Cabinet and on the recommendation of the Prime Minister.
- The Superior Court of Justice of Ontario has jurisdiction over criminal, civil, and family cases, and is the largest superior trial court in Canada.
- The Superior Court of Quebec hears civil and commercial cases where the sum at issue is $70,000 or more, as well as administrative and family matters, bankruptcies, jury trial in criminal cases, and summary conviction appeals.
Biographical Notes
Statement by the Prime Minister on Canadian Multiculturalism Day
June 27, 2019
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on Canadian Multiculturalism Day:
“Today, on Canadian Multiculturalism Day, we celebrate the values which set Canada apart and make our country one of the best places in the world to live.
“Respect, openness, courage, and compassion – these values have stitched together the Canadian tapestry for generations and generations. Today, the threads of our tapestry have never been stronger, brighter, or more intricate.
“As the first country in the world to adopt a policy of multiculturalism, Canada has long recognized that we are all better off when we respect and unite behind our differences. But our work is not yet finished. We must all continue to learn about each other, embrace our diversity, and celebrate what it is to be Canadian – while learning from the mistakes in our past, and making sure never to repeat them.
“We are also not immune to the violent and hateful extremism unfolding around the world. By calling out and standing up to divisive speech and acts, we put ourselves forward as an example – as people who treat each other with respect, champion the rights of all, and embrace diversity as a strength.
“Whoever we are and wherever we come from, we all bring something unique and important to Canada. Today, and every day, let’s celebrate multiculturalism and recognize the invaluable contributions that Canadians of all backgrounds have made, and continue to make, to our country.”
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to visit Canada
June 25, 2019
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced that the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, will visit Canada from July 1 to 3, 2019. The two leaders will meet in Toronto on July 2, 2019, during the Ukraine Reform Conference.
During the meeting, Prime Minister Trudeau will reiterate Canada’s unwavering support for the people of Ukraine and its sovereignty and territorial integrity. The two leaders will discuss Ukraine’s reform efforts on its path to Euro-Atlantic integration, the security situation in the region, and how to further deepen Canada-Ukraine commercial relations.
Quote
“Canada and Ukraine share a deep and historic friendship built on shared values and strong people-to-people bonds. I look forward to my meeting with President Zelenskyy, where I will reaffirm Canada’s commitment to the Ukrainian people, and discuss ways to deepen our economic partnership and create good, middle class jobs in both of our countries.”
— Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada
Quick Facts
- The Ukraine Reform Conference will take place in Toronto on July 2-4, 2019. Co-hosted by Canada and Ukraine, the Conference brings together key international friends and partners to support Ukraine. It is an opportunity for further progress in its ambitious reform programme, designed to bring security and prosperity to the people of Ukraine.
- Canada and Ukraine have enjoyed a close bilateral relationship since Canada became the first Western nation to recognize Ukraine’s independence on December 2, 1991.
- Canada and Ukraine’s warm people-to-people ties are strengthened by the more than 1.3 million-strong Ukrainian-Canadian community.
- Since January 2014, Canada has committed more than $785 million in support to Ukraine, covering a broad range of financial, development, stabilization, and security, non-lethal military and humanitarian assistance.
- On March 31 and April 21, over 200 Canadians participated as election observers for each round of the Ukrainian presidential elections. Canada will also support the deployment of over 300 long-term and short-term observers to observe the Parliamentary elections scheduled for July 21.
- Since 2015, the Canadian Armed Forces have trained more than 12,000 members of the Ukrainian armed forces as part of Operation UNIFIER, Canada’s military training mission in Ukraine.
- Canada and Ukraine cooperate in a range of international organizations, including the United Nations, the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), and La Francophonie.
- The coming into force of the Canada-Ukraine Free Trade Agreement on August 1, 2017, represents an important milestone in the countries’ bilateral relationship, and provides the framework for promoting new private sector partnerships and generating economic benefits for Canada and Ukraine.
- Canada's two-way merchandise trade with Ukraine totalled $346 million in 2018.
Associated Link
- Canada – Ukraine Relations
- Prime Minister announces appointment of new Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Nova Scotia
June 24, 2019
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced the appointment of the Honourable Deborah K. Smith, Associate Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Nova Scotia, as Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Nova Scotia.
She replaces the Honourable Joseph P. Kennedy, who retired on April 30, 2019, after more than 41 years of distinguished service as a judge.
Quote
“I am happy to announce the appointment of the Honourable Deborah K. Smith as Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Nova Scotia. Chief Justice Smith brings over 17 years of experience practising law in Halifax and, more recently, over 18 years of service as a judge on the province’s Supreme Court. I am confident she will serve Nova Scotians well in her new role.”
—The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of CanadaQuick 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.
Biographical Notes
- The Honourable Deborah K. Smith
- Statement by the Prime Minister on the National Day of Remembrance for Victims of Terrorism
June 23, 2019
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on the National Day of Remembrance for Victims of Terrorism:
“Today, on the National Day of Remembrance for Victims of Terrorism, we remember every Canadian at home and abroad whose lives were cut short or forever changed by a terrorist attack.
“In 1985, Canadians were stunned by reports of an explosion on Air India Flight 182, bound for the United Kingdom from Canada. The bomb killed the 329 innocent people on board, including 280 Canadians. This despicable act of terror left families and friends grieving the loss of loved ones, and shook our country to its core. It remains the deadliest terrorist attack in Canadian history.
“We have lost many others to acts of terrorism since that day. Those who commit these acts want to sow discord, divide us, and weaken our values. Time after time, they fail. In moments of tragedy, we find out how truly resilient we are. The shared values that unite us – inclusion, compassion, and equality – are stronger than fear and hatred.
“In recent months, we have seen terrorist and extremist online content spill out into the real world with tragic and deadly consequences. We are working hard to modernize and enhance our security efforts and stop violent extremism, both online and offline. Through the Christchurch Call to Action, Canada and countries around the world are stepping up to prevent people from abusing the internet to promote terrorism.
“On behalf of the Government of Canada, I extend my condolences to Canadians who have lost loved ones to terrorist acts. I also want to thank all those – women and men in uniform, the intelligence community, diplomats, and security and law enforcement professionals – who work every day to keep our communities and country safe.”
Statement by the Prime Minister on la Fête nationale du Québec and Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day
June 24, 2019
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on la Fête nationale du Québec and Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day:
“Today, on la Fête nationale du Québec, my family and I join our fellow Quebecers to proudly celebrate our distinct culture and heritage.
“Quebec is at the heart of our history and continues to play a foundational role in Canada’s success. Over the centuries, Quebecers have built a society shaped by democracy, freedom, and equality. Their achievements make all Canadians proud – and the open, dynamic Canada we know today is thanks in large part to the vision and hard work of Quebecers.
“On Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day, we also join Francophones from coast to coast to coast to celebrate their language, cultures, and contributions to our society. Francophone communities are an integral part of who we are as a country. To move forward together, we need to keep promoting the French language, and make sure Francophone voices are heard across Canada.
“On behalf of the Government of Canada, Sophie and I extend our best wishes to Quebecers, Francophones across the country, and all those celebrating la Fête nationale du Québec and Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day. I invite all Canadians to celebrate Francophone communities and their important contributions, both past and present, to building the inclusive and prosperous country we all call home.”
Statement by the Prime Minister on National Indigenous Peoples Day
June 21, 2019
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on National Indigenous Peoples Day:
“Today, on National Indigenous Peoples Day, we celebrate the unique heritage and cultures of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples.
“On this day, and throughout National Indigenous History Month, we also recognize the important contributions Indigenous peoples have made and continue to make to Canada. First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples have shaped our past and will continue to shape our future. Canada can only move forward if Indigenous peoples can succeed and prosper.
“Indigenous communities and individuals continue to defend their cultures, honour their traditions, and share their stories so that they may be carried forward by generations to come. Today, Parliament will adopt legislation that will support work by Indigenous communities to protect, preserve, and revitalize their languages, which are fundamental to their cultures and heritage. It will also adopt legislation to reform child and family services, and affirm the right of Indigenous peoples to decide what is best for their children, their families, and their communities.
“No relationship is more important to Canada than the relationship with Indigenous peoples – and we are committed to building a renewed relationship based on recognition of rights, respect, cooperation, and partnership. Advancing reconciliation means changing colonial laws, policies, and practices, and addressing their impacts on the lives of Indigenous peoples. We are facing the hardest of truths – including those outlined in the final report of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls – so that we can move forward together.
“We know that to rebuild trust, words must be paired with action. That is why we’ve made unprecedented investments to close gaps in housing, health, and education for Indigenous communities, and taken important steps forward on reconciliation and righting past wrongs.
“On behalf of the Government of Canada, I encourage all Canadians to participate in events taking place across Canada and celebrate the history, traditions, and cultures of Indigenous peoples.”
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau speaks with U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell
June 21, 2019
Ottawa, Ontario
Yesterday, in Washington D.C., Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke with U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell to discuss the Canada-United States economic and security partnership. The Prime Minister and Senator McConnell underscored their commitment to the ratification of the new North American Free Trade Agreement, which will create good, well-paying jobs and new opportunities for people in both countries.
The two leaders also discussed their mutual concern about rising tensions with Iran.
