Statement by the Prime Minister on the 80th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Canada and Poland
March 27, 2022
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on the 80th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Canada and Poland:
“Today, Canada and Poland mark the 80th anniversary of diplomatic relations. Over the past eight decades, our countries have enjoyed a longstanding relationship rooted in shared values and a rich history of military cooperation working to advance our shared commitments to peace, security, freedom and democracy.
“On this day in 1942, as the Second World War raged, Wiktor Podoski presented his letters of credence as Polish envoy to Canada. Ever since, Poland has become a close friend, partner, and ally.
“Today, our countries continue to deepen their ties and collaborate on shared priorities, including by remaining united in condemning Russia’s ongoing aggression against the territorial integrity, sovereignty, and independence of Ukraine, and closely collaborating on the international humanitarian response. Poland has played an important role in responding to the further Russian invasion of Ukraine. We thank Poland and the Polish people for their remarkable efforts in welcoming more than two million Ukrainians over the past month, a testament to the dedication, strength, and goodwill of the Polish people.
“During my recent visit to Poland earlier this month, I met with President Andrzej Duda to discuss security challenges and regional defence in Eastern Europe and the need to continue increasing economic and diplomatic pressure on Russia. I reiterated Canada’s support to Poland as it grapples with significant humanitarian challenges due to the refugee crisis. We also explored opportunities to broaden the bilateral trade relationship for the benefit of people in both Canada and Poland.
“Today, more than 1.1 million Canadians of Polish origin reside in Canada. On this important anniversary, we reflect on the successes and evolution of our relationship and take the opportunity to recognize the significant contributions Polish Canadians made – and continue to make – for Canada to be the strong, diverse, and inclusive country we know today.
“Our two countries will continue to work closely together to advance our shared priorities including through a number of multilateral organizations, such as the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and the United Nations. Canada was the first NATO country to approve Poland joining the Alliance and our countries continue to serve together, including on the Canada-led multinational NATO battle group in Latvia to ensure a peaceful and stable Europe.
“On behalf of the Government of Canada, I extend my best wishes to the people of Poland, Polish Canadians, and everyone celebrating. Together, we will continue to build a better future for everyone.”
March 26, 2022
Ottawa, Ontario
Today the European Commission and the Government of Canada announced the launch of a global campaign to raise funding in support of people fleeing the invasion of Ukraine, in partnership with international advocacy organization Global Citizen.
The President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy called on the international community on behalf of his citizens who have been displaced by the war, saying: “On 9 April, the biggest online event ‘Social Media Rally’ will support people who were forced to flee Ukraine. I'm inviting everybody: musicians, actors, athletes, businessmen, politicians, everybody. Everyone who wants to join this movement and ‘Stand Up for Ukraine’.”
The “Stand Up For Ukraine” campaign seeks to mobilize governments, institutions, artists, companies and individuals to direct funding to support humanitarian efforts in Ukraine and in neighbouring countries. Global Citizen will announce more details in the coming days about how people can support.
It will culminate in a pledging event on 9 April, co-hosted by President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. The aim is to raise funds and mobilize support more broadly, to cater for the needs of internally displaced people and of refugees.
Quotes
“Today, our message to the Ukrainian people is this: we are standing with you. Whether you need food, water, shelter, or medical aid – we are rallying the world to continue to have your backs and provide critical assistance where it is needed most. When we all work together, we can achieve the best outcomes for those displaced by Putin’s illegal and unjustifiable invasion of Ukraine.”
“Millions of people are fleeing the bombs falling on Ukrainian cities. They are leaving their homes and their lives behind, to reach safety in other parts of Ukraine or in neighbouring countries. A Ukrainian child has become a refugee every second since the start of the war. The world must stand up for them. The European Union is catering for the needs of the millions of refugees it hosts. And we will further step up. But so much is needed – and the brave people of Ukraine deserve solidarity from citizens and governments around the globe. Together, we can give them a safe home and bring some light in their lives at this dark hour.”
