Statement by the Prime Minister on the death of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan
May 14, 2022
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on the death of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Abu Dhabi:
“It was with sadness that I learned of the death of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Ruler of Abu Dhabi.
“Sheikh Khalifa dedicated his life to public service, including as Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi. He was appointed as the second president of the country in 2004, succeeding his father and founder of the nation, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan al Nahyan. Sheikh Khalifa promoted the UAE’s sustainable economic development, as well as peace, prosperity, and stability in the region – guiding principles that saw the UAE become a global centre for trade and commerce, cultural exchange, and tourism. He will also be remembered for the landmark peace deal between the UAE and Israel, known as the Abraham Accords, which was signed during his rule in 2020.
“Canada and the UAE enjoy a broad and deep relationship, which continued under His Highness’ leadership, as demonstrated by our cooperation on building prosperity for people in both countries, contributing to economic and social development in other countries, and strengthening regional and global security.
“On behalf of the Government of Canada, I wish to extend my condolences to Sheikh Khalifa’s family and loved ones, Emiratis, and residents of the UAE.”
May 12, 2022
Ottawa, Ontario
A united global response to COVID‑19 must ensure that vaccines get to people who need them most. Working together is key to developing a global solution to a global problem.
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced $732 million for the Access to COVID-19 Tools-Accelerator (ACT-A). The announcement was made as part of the second virtual Global COVID-19 Summit, convened by the United States of America and co-hosted by the Governments of Belize, Germany, Indonesia, and Senegal. This funding includes the allocation of $220 million previously announced on April 8, 2022 at the Gavi COVAX Advance Market Commitment Summit. Including prior announcements, these funds will ensure Canada meets its burden share for the 2021-2022 ACT-A budget cycle.
The emergence and spread of new variants of COVID-19, like Omicron, has reinforced the need for a strategy that works to control COVID-19 worldwide, including for high-risk populations. ACT-A is helping to overcome global inequities by providing low- and middle-income countries access to COVID-19 tests, treatments, vaccines, and personal protective equipment. It remains the world’s best solution to end the acute phase of the COVID-19 pandemic.
During the Summit, Prime Minister Trudeau underlined how vaccine supply is no longer the key constraint to combating COVID-19 around the world. However, many countries continue to encounter difficulties getting vaccines from tarmacs into arms, particularly in remote communities and among vulnerable populations. He also stressed the role of misinformation in undermining confidence in COVID-19 vaccines, recognizing that Canada and its global partners must work together to reinforce the continued importance of testing and treatments, both to identify dangerous variants and to contain future outbreaks.
Canada will continue working with its international partners to bolster global health security, and help ensure the world is better equipped to respond to and recover from pandemics and other health crises in the future.
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“We must continue to work together and support the international response to end this pandemic everywhere and for everyone. Today, I am announcing new and meaningful funding for the Access to COVID-19 Tools Accelerator (ACT-A), bringing Canada’s total contribution to more than $2 billion since the start of the pandemic. Canada is contributing to the international pandemic response and will continue to work with partners to ensure that that we strengthen our collective ability to prevent, prepare and respond to disease outbreaks going forward.”
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Associated Links
- ACT-Accelerator
- Canada’s aid and development assistance in response to the COVID‑19 pandemic
- Prime Minister Justin Trudeau attends the Global COVID-19 Summit hosted by the President of the United States of America Joe Biden
- Canada-United States relations
May 13, 2022
Ottawa, Ontario
Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with Yukon Premier Sandy Silver to discuss shared priorities.
The Prime Minister and Premier discussed Arctic sovereignty and infrastructure, and agreed that building healthy communities is part of the strategy to better secure the region.
The leaders discussed the importance of critical minerals and mining for the territory and for workers, and opportunities in this sector. They also emphasized the need to work together to advance sustainable development of natural resources and protect the environment.
The Prime Minister and Premier explored ways to ensure a strong economic recovery from the pandemic and acknowledged the North’s unique needs. They also discussed advancing on reconciliation and mental health as well as Yukon’s bid for the 2027 Canada Winter Games.
The two leaders committed to continue working together.
Associated Links
- Prime Minister Justin Trudeau speaks with Northwest Territories Premier Caroline Cochrane, Nunavut Premier P.J. Akeeagok, and Yukon Premier Sandy Silver
- Canada's Arctic and Northern Policy Framework
May 13, 2022
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement welcoming the announcement of His Holiness Pope Francis’ visit to Canada. His Holiness will be in Canada from July 24 to 29, 2022:
“I welcome the news of His Holiness Pope Francis’ visit to Canada this summer to formally deliver the Roman Catholic Church’s apology for its role in operating residential schools that caused lasting pain and suffering to Indigenous Peoples in this country.
“His Holiness’ upcoming visit would not be possible without the bravery and determination of the Survivors, Indigenous leaders, and youth who shared their stories.
“While His Holiness delivered an apology in Rome last month, a formal in-person apology in Canada from the Roman Catholic Church to Survivors and their families would respond to Call to Action #58 of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC). This would be an important – and necessary – step for the Roman Catholic Church to continue engaging in dialogue with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis in order to advance meaningful reconciliation for Indigenous Peoples in our country. For far too long, this has been a burden carried by Indigenous Peoples alone. I encourage all Canadians to watch this historic moment and reflect on the impacts of colonialism.
“The Government of Canada is committed to implementing the TRC’s Calls to Action and supporting Survivors and their communities in the journey of healing. We will continue to support First Nations, Inuit, and Métis by investing in their efforts to identify and recover those who never came home. Recognizing that this work can trigger painful memories, the government will also continue to invest in culturally appropriate mental health and wellness supports so that individuals, families, and communities can grieve and heal.
“If you need to talk to someone, mental health supports will continue to be available to residential school Survivors, their families, and communities throughout the Pope’s visit to Canada, including through national helplines and other mental wellness services.”
National helplines are available 24/7 to support Indigenous Peoples across Canada:
- The Hope for Wellness Help Line provides immediate, toll-free telephone and online-chat based support and crisis intervention to all Indigenous people in Canada. This service is available in English and French, and upon request in Cree, Ojibway, and Inuktitut. Counsellors are available by phone at 1-855-242-3310 or by online chat at hopeforwellness.ca.
- The National Indian Residential School Crisis Line is available to provide emotional and crisis referral services by phone at 1-866-925-4419
May 12, 2022
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today held a bilateral meeting with the Prime Minister of Latvia, Krišjānis Kariņš, during his visit to Canada from May 10 to 12, 2022.
The prime ministers discussed ways to further coordinate additional military support to Ukraine as the country continues to fight Russia’s unprovoked and unjustifiable aggression. The leaders stressed the importance of coordination among members of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and discussed ways to further strengthen NATO’s deterrence and defence measures in Eastern Europe, particularly in the Baltic region. The prime ministers also expressed their shared support for Finland joining the NATO Alliance.
Following their meeting, Prime Minister Trudeau announced Canada will deploy a Canadian Armed Forces general officer and six staff officers to NATO’s Multinational Division North Headquarters, based in Ādaži, Latvia.
The prime ministers also discussed the strong Canada-Latvia partnership rooted in common values and a commitment to the rules-based international system, as well as security issues in the broader Baltic region. They agreed to stay in touch ahead of the upcoming Canada-Baltics 3+1 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, which Canada will host in June.
During his visit to Canada, Prime Minister Kariņš also met with the Honourable Anthony Rota, Speaker of the House of Commons, and with the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Chrystia Freeland.
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“Canada and Latvia share deep-rooted values of freedom, democracy, and the rule of law, and we continue to deepen our bilateral relationship. Today, Prime Minister Kariņš and I discussed military support to Ukraine as it continues to defend itself from Russia’s unprovoked and unjustifiable aggression. By working together, as NATO Allies and friends, we will continue to defend against and deter threats to democracy and global stability around the world.”
“At this crucial time for Euro-Atlantic security, Canada’s commitment to the NATO Alliance continues to be unwavering. To this end, we recently deployed a second frigate to NATO’s maritime forces and have added even more troops and capabilities to the Canadian-led multinational enhanced Forward Presence Battle Group in Latvia. This contribution of Canadian Armed Forces personnel to Multinational Division North Headquarters is yet another example of Canada’s commitment towards the security of our NATO Allies, and to defending every inch of NATO territory.”
Quick Facts
- Prime Minister Trudeau has visited Latvia twice. His last visit was in March 2022.
- Canada and Latvia’s relationship is rooted in shared values of freedom, democracy, and the rule of law. Our ties are strong due in part to the 30,000 Canadians of Latvian heritage.
- Canada was the first G7 country to recognize the restoration of Latvia’s independence in 1991, and one of the first countries to ratify Latvia’s accession to NATO in 2004.
- Canada currently has approximately 700 Canadian Armed Forces personnel leading NATO’s enhanced Forward Presence Battle Group in Latvia as part of Operation REASSURANCE.
- Created in March 2019, NATO’s Multinational Division North Headquarters performs several vital roles – including support for the defence planning of Baltic nations, and the coordination of regional military activities – such as the activities of enhanced Forward Presence forces.
- Headquartered in Ādaži, Latvia, with additional elements in Denmark, Multinational Division North is currently led by Denmark, and falls under the command of NATO’s Multinational Corps Northeast.
Associated Links
- Prime Minister of Latvia Krišjānis Kariņš visits Canada
- Canada-Latvia relations
- Canada and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization
- Prime Minister concludes successful bilateral visit to Latvia
- Operation REASSURANCE
May 10, 2022
Ottawa, Ontario
Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke with the Chancellor of Germany, Olaf Scholz.
The Prime Minister and Chancellor commended the Ukrainian people for their unwavering courage in the face of Russian aggression. They reiterated their strong support for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and his government, and committed to ongoing economic, security, and humanitarian support for Ukraine.
The leaders expressed concern for the broader global impacts of the war, including its effects on energy and food security, and agreed to further coordinate on international responses, especially in the lead-up to the G7 Summit to be hosted in Germany in June. Prime Minister Trudeau recognized the significant efforts and sacrifices made by European partners and allies, including Germany. The leaders agreed to maintain close alignment and coordination to continue supporting Ukraine and further isolate Russia economically.
The leaders followed up on commitments made during the Prime Minister’s visit to Berlin in March to deepen bilateral collaboration on shared priorities. They discussed progress on our cooperation on critical mineral and energy supply chains, as well as the adoption of carbon pricing policies globally.
Prime Minister Trudeau and Chancellor Scholz agreed to continue working together to advance shared priorities.
Associated Links
May 12, 2022
Ottawa, Ontario
Yesterday, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with the Secretary General of La Francophonie, Louise Mushikiwabo, during her visit to Canada to formally establish the Représentation extérieure de l’Organisation internationale de la Francophonie (OIF) pour les Amériques.
The Prime Minister reiterated Canada’s deep commitment to La Francophonie and welcomed the opening on May 10 in Quebec City of this new OIF office, which will contribute to the spread of the French language on our continent while promoting greater collaboration between Canada and the OIF.
The Prime Minister and Secretary General discussed the OIF’s work to strengthen the development of a Francophonie dedicated to promoting the French language and our shared values. Prime Minister Trudeau commended Secretary General Mushikiwabo’s transformation and modernization efforts in order to improve the governance, sound management, transparency, and effectiveness of the OIF. He encouraged the Secretary General to continue with these reforms to ensure their completion.
The two leaders discussed the war in Ukraine, which is an attack on international law, democracy, freedom, and human rights. They expressed concern for the broader global impacts of the war, including its effects on food and energy security, agricultural trade, and supply chains. The Prime Minister stressed the importance of ongoing collaboration with allies and international partners to support Ukrainians and hold Russia accountable for this unjustifiable and unprovoked war.
The Prime Minister noted the growing number of crises occurring in the French-speaking world over the past two years and shared his deep concern over increasing instability and insecurity. In particular, the two leaders discussed the crisis in Haiti, and the Prime Minister stressed the importance of reaching a resolution to the crisis and an inclusive dialogue shaped by and for Haitians.
The Prime Minister also emphasized the importance for the OIF to put its founding values back at the heart of its work, in the face of current geopolitical changes. The Prime Minister and Secretary General discussed the actions taken by the OIF to promote the principles of democracy, human rights, and gender equality. They agreed to continue working together to advance these principles and shared priorities.
Associated Links
- Canada and La Francophonie
- Minister Joly meets with the Secretary General of La Francophonie
- Canada’s response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine
- Canada’s engagement in Ukraine
May 12, 2022
Ottawa, Ontario
Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke with the President of France, Emmanuel Macron.
The Prime Minister congratulated President Macron on his re-election, and looked forward to working together on the issues that matter most to people in Canada and France – from defending democracy, to fighting climate change, to creating good jobs and economic growth for the middle class. The Prime Minister and President discussed arranging an inaugural joint meeting of the Councils of Ministers in Canada. Noting the approaching anniversary of June 6, the leaders discussed the significance of Juno Beach to the history and people of both nations and committed to protecting the site so future generations will remember the sacrifice of Canadian soldiers who landed there in 1944.
The Prime Minister and President condemned Russia’s ongoing military aggression against the territorial integrity, sovereignty, and independence of Ukraine, and praised the courage and leadership of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and the Ukrainian people. The two leaders called on Russia for an immediate ceasefire and withdrawal of troops and agreed on the need to further coordinate with partners and allies on continued support for Ukraine.
Prime Minister Trudeau and President Macron discussed the global impacts of the war in Ukraine, notably for energy prices and food security. They agreed to further collaborate through bilateral and multilateral channels to deliver coordinated responses to these challenges in support of those most affected, notably in Africa and the Middle East. In discussing the work of the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie, the Prime Minister and President agreed on the importance of the organization’s work to promote democratic values and human rights.
Prime Minister Trudeau and President Macron agreed to remain in close contact on these and other issues of shared interest in the near future.
Associated Links
- Canada-France relations
- Canada’s response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine
- Statement by the Prime Minister on the result of France’s presidential election
- G7 Leaders’ Statement
- Prime Minister Justin Trudeau speaks with President of France Emmanuel Macron
May 12, 2022
Ottawa, Ontario
Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with Nunavut Premier P.J. Akeeagok to discuss shared priorities.
The Prime Minister and Premier discussed Nunavut’s newly released Ktujjiluta Mandate and emphasized the important work undertaken to bring together the Government of Nunavut, Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated, and Inuit organizations on priority items, especially on investing in housing in the North. The two leaders agreed on the importance of closing the housing gap and its strong link to other priorities, such as public health and elder care. The Prime Minister highlighted recent investments in Budget 2022 which proposes $60 million to the Government of Nunavut, and $845 million in dedicated funding to address the unique housing needs in Inuit communities.
The Premier expressed support for Canada’s efforts and aid to Ukraine. They discussed Arctic security and related infrastructure needs across the territory and the importance of collaborating to deliver results that will improve the lives of Nunavummiut.
The Prime Minister and Premier discussed devolution in Nunavut and the need to work closely together as the parties involved enter the final stages of negotiations. The leaders agreed on the critical importance of devolution for the territory and expressed optimism that an agreement can be reached.
The two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to continued cooperation between their governments on these and other shared priorities, such as climate change and fostering economic diversification and growth for communities in the North.
The Prime Minister and Premier looked forward to continued collaboration.
Associated Links
- Prime Minister Justin Trudeau speaks with Northwest Territories Premier Caroline Cochrane, Nunavut Premier P.J. Akeeagok, and Yukon Premier Sandy Silver
- Minister Vandal announces Budget 2022 housing investments in Nunavut
- Canada’s Arctic and Northern Policy Framework
- Nunavut devolution
- Canada’s response to the Russian invasion of Ukrain
