Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with Boris Johnson, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom
August 24, 2019
Biarritz, France
Today, the Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, met with Boris Johnson, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.
The Prime Ministers committed to working together to continue strengthening all facets of the Canada-UK relationship. In line with the G7 Summit theme of reducing inequalities, the two leaders discussed the global economy and the importance of growth, job creation and a strong middle class. They agreed on the need to reform the World Trade Organization (WTO), highlighting Canada’s leadership in this regard.
In discussing Brexit and the future of Canada-UK trade, Prime Minister Trudeau and Prime Minister Johnson reaffirmed their interest in ensuring that people and businesses in Canada and the UK continue to benefit and prosper from the deep and productive trading relationship. They committed to having their respective trade officials meet shortly to work towards this outcome.
The two leaders exchanged views on some of the challenging situations facing the world today, including Venezuela, tensions in the Persian Gulf and the situation in Kashmir. With respect to Hong Kong, both underlined the importance of freedom of expression and assembly. The Prime Ministers discussed relations with Russia and agreed that it should not be readmitted to the G7 unless it ceased its aggression against Ukraine. Prime Minister Johnson thanked Canada for its support in condemning the Salisbury poisoning in March 2018.
Prime Minister Trudeau and Prime Minister Johnson agreed on the need to tackle climate change and protect biodiversity. They also discussed the issue of Amazon wildfires as an international crisis to be addressed during this G7 Summit. They discussed their shared commitment to gender equality and women's empowerment and agreed on the central importance of quality education for girls.
Prime Minister Trudeau thanked Prime Minister Johnson for the UK’s support on the two Canadians detained in China and reiterated the call for their immediate release.
Statement by the Prime Minister on Ukrainian Independence Day
August 24, 2019
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on Ukrainian Independence Day:
“Today, we join Ukrainian communities in Canada and around the world to celebrate the 28th anniversary of Ukraine’s independence.
“Canada was the first Western country to recognize Ukraine’s independence in 1991 – and we’ve been close friends and partners ever since. From co-hosting the third Ukraine Reform Conference, to training members of the Security Forces of Ukraine as part of Operation UNIFIER, to establishing free trade between our two countries, we are working with the people of Ukraine as they build a secure, sovereign, and prosperous future for their country.
“In July, I met with President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, to reaffirm Canada’s steadfast support for the people of Ukraine and their country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. I also highlighted Canada’s support for Ukraine’s ambitious democratic reform path, focused on inclusive and accountable governance, the rule of law, and respect for human rights.
“For generations, the Ukrainian-Canadian community – now more than 1.3 million people strong – has woven its threads into our national fabric. Through their vibrant language, culture, and traditions, Ukrainian-Canadians have shaped and continue to shape our country for the better.
“They have also created close ties between our two countries, connecting Canadians and Ukrainians from Kelowna to Kyiv, Edmonton to Enerhodar, and Dauphin to Dnipro. These deep and lasting bonds of family and friendship, together with our common values, are at the heart of the strong Canada-Ukraine relationship.
“On behalf of all Canadians, Sophie and I wish everyone celebrating a happy Ukrainian Independence Day.
“Slava Ukraini!”
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau speaks with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine
August 23, 2019
Ottawa, Ontario
Yesterday, the Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, spoke with Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine.
Prime Minister Trudeau warmly congratulated President Zelenskyy on his party’s success in the recent Ukrainian Parliamentary elections and on the confidence the Ukrainian people have expressed in President Zelenskyy’s ambitious reform path. Prime Minister Trudeau also reaffirmed Canada’s unwavering support for Ukraine.
Prime Minister Trudeau and President Zelenskyy discussed the security situation in the region and the fundamental importance of Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The Prime Minister and the President agreed on the need for respect of the rule of law, implementation of the Minsk Agreement, and progress within the Normandy Format to protect and promote peace and security in Ukraine.
The Prime Minister and the President discussed the upcoming G7 Summit and agreed on the importance of engagement by the international community, including the G7, to support Ukraine in securing its future as a stable, democratic, and prosperous country. Prime Minister Trudeau expressed his firm belief that the G7 is a forum where the members must subscribe to shared values such as respect for democracy and international law. The Prime Minister reaffirmed Canada’s position opposing readmitting Russia to the G7 until they cease aggression in Crimea and the Donbas.
The two leaders agreed to staying in touch on issues of mutual interest.
The Prime Minister announces changes in the senior ranks of the Public Service
August 23, 2019
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced the following changes in the senior ranks of the Public Service:
Simon Kennedy, currently Deputy Minister of Health, becomes Deputy Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, effective September 3, 2019.
Stephen Lucas, currently Deputy Minister of Environment and Climate Change, becomes Deputy Minister of Health, effective September 3, 2019.
Christine Hogan, currently Executive Director for Canada, Ireland and the Caribbean for the World Bank, becomes Deputy Minister of Environment and Climate Change, effective September 30, 2019.
The Prime Minister took the opportunity to congratulate John Knubley, Deputy Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, on his retirement from the Public Service of Canada, following a distinguished career marked by dedication and excellence in serving Canadians.
Biographical notes
Statement by the Prime Minister on Black Ribbon Day
August 23, 2019
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on Black Ribbon Day, the National Day of Remembrance for the Victims of Communism and Nazism in Europe:
“Today, we join people around the world to pay tribute to the survivors and victims of Communism and Nazism in Europe. We also stand in solidarity with all those around the world who continue to fight against the brutality, violence, and repression of totalitarian and authoritarian regimes.
“Black Ribbon Day marks the sombre anniversary of the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact. Signed between the Soviet Union and Nazi Germany in 1939 to divide Central and Eastern Europe, the infamous pact set the stage for the appalling atrocities these regimes would commit. In its wake, they stripped countries of their autonomy, forced families to flee their homes, and tore communities apart, including Jewish and Romani communities, and others. The Soviet and Nazi regimes brought untold suffering upon people across Europe, as millions were senselessly murdered and denied their rights, freedoms, and dignity.
“Many people who escaped found refuge in Canada, bringing with them the hope of a better future for themselves and their families. Despite all they had endured, many shared an unshakeable belief in the power of individuals to make positive change and influence society for the better. They, along with their children and grandchildren, have helped build the strong, diverse, and prosperous country we all call home.
“It us up to all of us to safeguard human rights and protect freedom and democracy. It is up to all of us to make sure crimes like these never happen again. On behalf of the Government of Canada, I encourage all Canadians to honour the victims and survivors of Communism and Nazism, and of all totalitarian and authoritarian regimes, past and present. It is in their name that we will continue to defend human rights, and uphold the inherent dignity of every human being.”
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau meets with the United States Secretary of State Mike Pompeo
August 23, 2019
Ottawa, Ontario
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met yesterday with United States Secretary of State Mike Pompeo.
The Prime Minister and Secretary of State reaffirmed the strength of the Canada-United States partnership, which will be further enhanced by the ratification of the new North American Free Trade Agreement.
The Prime Minister and Secretary of State discussed relations with China, including the continued arbitrary detention of two Canadians in China, and ongoing developments in Hong Kong.
The Prime Minister and Secretary of State shared views on a range of current global issues, including Venezuela, Iran, Ukraine, and Jammu and Kashmir. They also had an exchange on Canada-U.S. cooperation in the Arctic, with the Prime Minister reaffirming Canada’s longstanding position regarding Canadian sovereignty over the Northwest Passage.
The Prime Minister thanked the Secretary of State for coming to Ottawa, and said that he looked forward to seeing United States President Donald Trump at the upcoming G7 Summit in Biarritz, France.
The Prime Minister and Secretary of State reaffirmed the strength of the Canada-United States partnership, which will be further enhanced by the ratification of the new North American Free Trade Agreement.
The Prime Minister and Secretary of State discussed relations with China, including the continued arbitrary detention of two Canadians in China, and ongoing developments in Hong Kong.
The Prime Minister and Secretary of State shared views on a range of current global issues, including Venezuela, Iran, Ukraine, and Jammu and Kashmir. They also had an exchange on Canada-U.S. cooperation in the Arctic, with the Prime Minister reaffirming Canada’s longstanding position regarding Canadian sovereignty over the Northwest Passage.
The Prime Minister thanked the Secretary of State for coming to Ottawa, and said that he looked forward to seeing United States President Donald Trump at the upcoming G7 Summit in Biarritz, France.
New investments in Quebec City’s public transit network
August 19, 2019
Quebec City, Quebec
In Quebec and across the country, we need to make sure our public transit infrastructure keeps pace with our growing cities. By investing in public transit, we can strengthen the middle class and build better, greener communities.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Quebec’s Minister of Transport and Minister Responsible for the Estrie Region, François Bonnardel, today announced joint funding to establish a structuring public transit network in Quebec City. The project, which also includes an investment from the City of Québec, will integrate several modes of public transit and provide comfortable, high-quality services to transit users.
Once complete, Quebec City’s public transit network will include two trambus lines over a total of 15 kilometres, as well as a 23 kilometre-long tramway line. Today’s funding will also help improve current Métrobus lines and build 16 kilometres of dedicated bus lanes and four new park-and-ride lots.
Four hubs will allow users to transfer from one system to another within the transit network, and two new automated links will make travel between Lower Town and Upper Town easier.
Thanks to the new structuring public transit network, people in Quebec City will be able to move more quickly around their city and benefit from modern, efficient, and flexible public transit services, designed to meet the needs of current and future residents.
Quotes
"Today is a great day for the people of Quebec City. With this historic investment in the city’s public transit network, we are helping residents get around more quickly and access the services they need, while making Quebec City greener. We will continue to listen to communities across Canada, and work together to invest in the infrastructure they need."
The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada
"As we have said from the start, we are here for Quebec City. Our major contribution will help Quebec City build a modern, 21st-century public transit system. This new infrastructure will enhance access to sustainable means of transport, and make it easier for residents to travel, so they spend less time in traffic and more time with their loved ones. More than ever, we have great hopes for Quebec City, and we are committed to building a greener future for all."
The Hon. François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities
"We’re proud to support Quebec City’s modern, structuring public transit project. From day one, we’ve promised we’d be part of this, and we’ve kept our word. Today, we can finally take this project forward. That’s what real progress looks like!"
The Hon. Jean-Yves Duclos, Minister of Families, Children and Social Development
“I am very pleased that the funding for the Quebec City structuring public transit network project is now secured. This is an important step, which will enable us to continue with the preparations for this major project for Quebec City. The structural network will extend over more than 54 kilometres, making travel faster and more efficient for users. It is clear that this project will contribute to Quebec City’s development, and help it to remain on the cutting edge with respect to public transit."
François Bonnardel, Minister of Transport and Minister Responsible for the Estrie Region
"Today, full funding for the largest public transit project in Quebec City’s history has at last been confirmed. The structuring public transit network is an ambitious project, custom-made for Quebec City. Its primary goal is to positively transform citizens’ quality of life for decades to come and make our city the most attractive in the country. The network will be planned and built in a spirit of transparency, and we will regularly consult with citizens. Quebec City will now be among the Canadian cities with over 500,000 residents that have modern public transit infrastructure. I would like to thank the governments of Quebec and Canada for their support for and confidence in this project.”
Régis Labeaume, Mayor of Quebec City
Quick Facts
- In 2016, the Government of Canada launched the largest infrastructure plan in Canada’s history. Since then, it has funded hundreds of infrastructure projects to expand our highways, build new roads, and help drivers throughout Canada get around more easily and safely.
- The Government of Canada will invest up to $1.2 billion in Quebec City’s structuring public transit network through the Investing in Canada infrastructure program. The Government of Quebec will invest $1.8 billion to deliver the project, and the City of Québec will provide $300 million.
- Through the Investing in Canada plan, the Government of Canada is investing over $180 billion over 12 years in public transit, green and social infrastructure, transportation infrastructure that supports business, and rural and northern communities.
- Of that funding, $28.7 billion will go to public transit projects, including $5 billion available for investment through the Canada Infrastructure Bank.
- Through the Public Transit Infrastructure Fund, the Government of Canada has so far invested over $737 million to carry out 312 projects in Quebec, to improve public transit services in the province.
- The Quebec Infrastructure Plan provides $115.4 billion in investments over 2019-2029, to maintain and develop public infrastructure, up 15% over the preceding period.
- The transportation sector accounts for 25% of greenhouse gas emissions in Canada. Investments in public transit help to improve travel, reduce air pollution, build stronger communities, and help grow Canada’s economy.
