THE WHITE HOUSE: Background Press Call by a Senior Administration Official on Russia

Background Press Call by a Senior Administration Official on Russia
JANUARY 08, 2022


Via Teleconference

1:11 P.M. EST


MODERATOR: Hi, everyone. Good afternoon. And thanks for joining us on a Saturday.

Today’s call will be on background, attributed to a “senior administration official,” and the contents will be embargoed upon [until] conclusion.

For your information only, the speaker today is going to be [senior administration official]. Over to you for some opening comments.

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Great. Thanks, [senior administration official]. And thanks, everybody, for taking some time on a weekend. So, I’ll say a few things and then I’m happy to take some questions.

I want to start off by directing everyone’s attention to Secretary Blinken’s public remarks yesterday, which I think are sort of the fullest articulation we’ve made of where things stand at the minute.

Because there seems to be some confusion, as well as at least some inaccurate reporting about what the plan is for the Strategic Stability Dialogue, I wanted to try to explain how we think that is likely to proceed when it gets underway tomorrow.

We’ve said three things from the moment Russia first published its two so-called “draft treaties”:

First, that we would have our own concerns to raise. This is critical, since, as anyone who is familiar with the history understands, the main threats to European security over the past two decades have come from Russia and the forces with which it is aligned. Russia has twice invaded and occupied its neighbors. It’s interfered in a myriad of elections, including our own. It’s used chemical weapons to conduct assassinations and violated foundational arms control treaties, like the INF. So, any serious conversation with Russia about European security is going to have to address those issues, which, of course, are not referenced in Russia’s draft documents.

Second, there are some things in Russia’s drafts on which we are never going to agree. It is not up to Russia, for example, to decide for other countries who they can to be allies with. Those are decisions only for those countries and the alliance itself. In the context of NATO, we refer to that as the “open door,” and neither Russia nor any other country is going to slam it shut.

But we have also said that there are some areas captured or alluded to in Russia’s documents where we think it might be possible to make progress either bilaterally, through the Strategic Stability Dialogue, or multilaterally, through the NATO-Russia Council or the OSCE, or both. And all of those meetings will get underway next week.

Third, and perhaps most important: Any discussion of those overlapping areas where we might be able to make progress would have to be reciprocal. And by that, we don’t just mean that Russia would have to do something in return for any steps the U.S. or our allies took, but that both sides would need to make, essentially, the same commitment.

And these discussions would also have to be conducted in full consultation with our partners and allies. We would not make any commitments to Russia that address security assistance — sorry — security interests of our allies without that. Period.

I also want to say a word or two about what those potentially overlapping areas are since there has been some erroneous reports on this. In our view — and all of this will be tested in the room, starting tomorrow — they include:

Missiles. Starting in Ukraine, Russia has said it feels threatened by the prospect of offensive missile systems being placed in Ukraine. As President Biden told President Putin, the United States has no intention of doing that. So, this is one area where we may be able to reach an understanding if Russia is willing to make a reciprocal commitment.

Russia has also expressed an interest in discussing the future of certain missile systems in Europe along the lines of the INF Treaty, which Russia violated and the previous U.S. administration withdrew from. We are open to discussing this possibility as well, again, with the full involvement of our allies.

Exercises. In recent years, Russia has conducted a series of ever larger and more coercive military exercises along its border with NATO Allies. Russia says its security is threatened by U.S. and NATO exercises as well. So, we are willing to explore the possibility of reciprocal restrictions on the size and scope of such exercises, including both strategic bombers close to each other’s territory and ground-based exercises as well.

This, by the way, is something we are already doing — or at least that we already should be doing when Russia does what it has committed to under an agreement called “The Vienna Document.”

We have also seen reports of other things the U.S. is open to discussing, like troop numbers or elements of force posture in NATO countries. I want to be clear that this is not on the table.

We won’t know until we get into these conversations, starting tomorrow night, whether Russia is prepared to negotiate seriously and in good faith — as we know our teams will be — or whether they will simply use this as a pretext to claim that diplomacy couldn’t address their interests, so they have to turn to other means.

As we have also said, while we would much prefer to de-escalate diplomatically, if Russia does choose this other path, we are more than ready and totally in line with our partners and allies on the need to impose severe costs on Russia through financial sanctions, export controls that target key industries, enhancements of NATO force posture on Allied territory, and increased security assistance to Ukraine. We will know a lot more in a week or so about which path we may be on.

One last note of caution in advance of the SSD: We’ve all now been through this enough times that we know how Russia is likely to handle messaging around these conversations. I would not at all be surprised if Russian media begins to report, perhaps even while the talks are still underway, that the U.S. has made all manner of concessions to Russia. This is a deliberate attempt to create division among allies, in part by manipulating all of you.

I really urge you not to fall for this — to come to us and we will immediately clarify any Russian claims. But I can assure you in advance that there will be no firm commitments made in these talks, which will be serious and concrete but exploratory in nature. Everything discussed will need to both come back to Washington for consideration and also to be taken up with partners and allies later in the week.

And I’ll leave it there. And happy to take any other questions.

Q Thank you. And thank you, [senior administration officials], for doing this. [Senior administration official], you just touched on something. What exactly is happening tomorrow night? I mean, obviously, we know that the main meeting gets underway on Monday.

And then, what you just touched on, in terms of the messaging during and after that meeting — I mean, doesn’t that just imply that you are going into this knowing that the Russians are not going to be negotiating in good faith?

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: So, on the first point, the delegations arrive tomorrow and they’re likely to have an initial conversation on Sunday night. But they’re — you’re right that the main meeting is taking place on Monday.

On your second question, I’m not sure I totally understand. What implies that we already know the outcome of the talks?

MODERATOR: Operator, can you please open the line again?

OPERATOR: Alex, your line is open.

Q Okay. Sorry, [senior administration official]. Yes, it seems like there’s obviously optimism that there’s some issues on which you can agree or at least work —

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Yeah.

Q — on down the line. But at the same time, it sounds like it’s a foregone conclusion that they’re going to come out and be disingenuous and lie about what’s actually happening. So, doesn’t that mean that you are going into these meetings, you know, with less optimism than perhaps you should have — I think — assuming that there’s going to be a negative outcome?

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: No, Alex, I think what it means is we’re going into these meetings with a sense of realism, not a sense of optimism. We are willing to see whether or not Russia comes to these talks with a spirit of seriousness, willing to discuss these issues in a concrete, results-oriented way. That’s what the two presidents agreed on their last phone call. And so, we’ll test the proposition in the room.

But what I want to convey by my comments about how they’re likely to message this is that there is not always 100 percent symmetry between how they talk about these things in public and what the nature of the discussion is behind closed doors.

That’s why, you know, I think, our preference all along has been not to put out all of our negotiating positions in the public domain, but to save that for the diplomatic conversations — we think those are likely to go better in that context — and why we are not drawing firm conclusions about what Russia’s positions are going to be, based on the public messaging that they have done up until now.

What they say is important; I’m not trying to dismiss what they say. But what they do and what they say behind closed doors is going to be much more important in determining whether there is a constructive path forward here.

Q Hey, [senior administration official]. Thanks for doing the call. Our friends at the New York Times have a nice story about the sanctions being planned in the event that Putin does launch an invasion. I just want to see if you could confirm some of these things: that the new sanctions will be directed at cutting off the largest Russian financial institutions that depend on global financial transfers, and that it would target some of aerospace and arms — Russian-built fighter aircraft, anti-aircraft systems, and satellite system –space systems. Any help on this? I appreciate it.

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Yes, Steve, I’m not going to go beyond what I’ve just said in my opening, which is that we’ve been very clear publicly and privately with the Russians that they will face severe costs if they go down the path of military incursion. You know, they will face financial and economic sanctions. They will put — face diplomatic consequences. They will face enhanced NATO force posture on Allied territory. They will face increased security assistance to Ukraine to help Ukraine in its ability to defend its own territory.

You know, they — all of these things are on the table, and we’re not trying to hide from them. But we are also not trying to lay them out in public in detail, because our view is that the path toward the most constructive negotiations is to do that behind closed doors.

But whatever they choose to do, we are prepared for either eventuality.

Q Hey, [senior administration official]. Can you tell us: Does the U.S. see Kazakhstan — the situation in Kazakhstan diverting Putin’s attention away from Ukraine at all?

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: You know, I think that’s really a question for the Kremlin and for the government of Russia, not a question for the United States. What is happening in Kazakhstan is not in any meaningful way about us.

And so, you know, we have been focused on that issue from a few perspectives. We — you’ve seen our public comments expressing concern about the possibility of violence being used against peaceful demonstrators. We are, obviously, also concerned about any U.S. personnel presence in Kazakhstan and are making plans accordingly.

But beyond that, we don’t have a lot to say about the situation. And I think your question is a good one and one very appropriately directed to the Kremlin.

Q Hi, thank you for doing this. I wanted to touch on what you said — what is the (inaudible) that you are willing to negotiate with Russia — as you mentioned, missiles and exercises. So, I’ve heard from my sources that there was some talk about some sort of CFE-type deal. So, you’re saying this is not on the table, just the missiles — like INF — and the exercise parts, right?

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: What I’m saying is that those are the areas that we think, bilaterally — although they will also have multilateral dimensions and will need to be discussed in those fora as well — bilaterally, we think we can — we have to explore the possibility of making progress with the Russians.

What you’ve just described, you know, something that implicates CFE or these other multinational, international agreements would need to be discussed in a different context, in a broader context. That is not part of our package of discussion topics for the SSP.

Q Thanks, [senior administration official], for doing this. I know you won’t want to give too many details, but if I could try and get a little bit more on both missiles and exercises: How far are you willing to go on your promise not to deploy missiles to Ukraine, whether nuclear or what Russia would call “conventionally strategic implication”? And does that apply at all? Or are you willing that — to apply that to the larger Eastern European theater?

And on exercises, has the administration and its European allies come to some kind of plan for how far you’re willing to go to pull those exercises back? Thanks.

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Yeah, so, again, I mean, you’re asking a question that really goes to the core of, you know, negotiating strategy. And I think, as any negotiator would tell you, laying out those kinds of things — what is your bottom-line position — in public, the day before the talks are slated to get underway, would not be the best tactic, in terms of trying to achieve the results that you want to achieve.

So, I understand why you’re asking the question. If I were in your shoes, I would ask as well. But from my perspective, from our perspective — with the priority being to have these talks go as well as possible and to try to achieve the outcomes that we’re trying to get to — it would not be in our interests to lay that out here.

But what I can say about it is that we have had significant discussions — intensive discussions, both internally and with our partners and allies — on these questions. And again, nothing will be committed to or agreed to that is not done in, sort of, full consultation and with full participation of any country, any of our allies whose security interests are implicated.

MODERATOR: Thanks, everyone. That concludes our call.

Friendly reminder that we are on background, attributed to a “senior administration official.” And with that, the embargo is lifted. Thanks.

1:28 P.M. EST

U.S. Department of Labor,update

 

U.S. Department of Labor

January 7, 2022

The best job creation record in history 2021 was a year of historic job growth. Since President Biden took office, the unemployment rate has dropped to 3.9%, the largest calendar year decrease in history and the lowest since the pandemic began. We added 199,000 jobs in December, bringing the total for 2021 to 6.4 million jobs. Read the BLS report Read a statement from Secretary of Labor Marty Walsh Read a blog post by Chief Economist Janelle Jones Grants will fight unacceptable work conditions, including child labor and forced labor To uphold our commitment to safeguard dignity at work, at home and abroad, we're providing more than $22 million in grants, including $8.4 million to address unacceptable working conditions in Central America and $14 million for two projects combating child labor, forced labor and human trafficking worldwide. Comment on OSHA’s workplace heat safety rule by Jan. 26 If you want to comment on OSHA’s workplace heat safety rule, share your thoughts by Jan. 26. Currently, OSHA does not have a specific standard to protect millions of workers from exposure to indoor and outdoor hazards from heat. #EndTrafficking Some 25 million adults and children are victims of forced labor. Here’s what we’re doing to end trafficking. IN CASE YOU MISSED IT Compliance seminar Join a virtual compliance seminar for information about the new rule raising the minimum wage for federal contract workers to $15 an hour. Fixing safety hazards A New Jersey aluminum foundry will pay $1 million and implement hazard abatement measures to resolve long-standing worker safety and health violations. Retirement savings We’ve recovered more than $9.3 million in retirement funds for participants of a Minneapolis company’s employee stock ownership plan. 35 years of service Learn how the National Veterans’ Training Institute helps improve the skills of the employment and training service providers who work with veterans. Nursing mothers’ rights After investigators found Labcorp illegally denied a worker private space for nursing at a California clinic, the company will implement compliance measures at more than 2,000 locations. Reporting requirements To protect employees’ organizing rights, our Office of Labor-Management Standards created a tip line for persuader activity. IN THE NEWS Washington Post: Labor Secretary Marty Walsh talks about new vaccine rule, labor activism and threat of omicron Bloomberg Law: U.S. Labor Agencies Strike Deal to Share Enforcement Information

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement..

 

Statement by the Prime Minister of Canada on the formation of a new government in the Netherlands

January 10, 2022
Ottawa, Ontario

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on the formation of a new government in the Netherlands:

“On behalf of the Government of Canada, I congratulate Prime Minister Mark Rutte on the formation of a new government in the Netherlands.

“Canada and the Netherlands enjoy a rich and historic friendship built on common values and strong people-to-people ties. We are partners in several international organizations, including the United Nations, NATO, and the World Trade Organization. We collaborate closely on a number of shared priorities, from supporting the International Criminal Court, to improving aviation safety through the Safer Skies Initiative, and working to address the situation in Afghanistan. We are taking bold climate action through our commitments to put a price on pollution, invest in renewable energy, and advance climate adaptation. Our two countries are also proud to be co‑chairing the Media Freedom Coalition this year.

“In October, I visited the Netherlands to discuss our shared priorities, and I look forward to continuing to work with Prime Minister Rutte, and collaborating with his new Cabinet, to reinforce the strong relationship between Canada and the Netherlands. Together, we will build back better from the COVID-19 pandemic as well as create jobs and economic growth for workers and businesses, including through the Canada‑European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement. We will also continue to strengthen our partnership by working to fight climate change, protect human rights, and promote our shared values of democracy, justice, equality, peace, and security around the world.”

Déclaration du premier ministre du Canada concernant la formation d’un nouveau gouvernement aux Pays-Bas

Le 10 janvier 2022
Ottawa (Ontario)

Le premier ministre Justin Trudeau a fait aujourd’hui la déclaration suivante concernant la formation d’un nouveau gouvernement aux Pays-Bas :

« Au nom du gouvernement du Canada, je félicite le premier ministre Mark Rutte pour la formation d’un nouveau gouvernement aux Pays-Bas.

« Le Canada et les Pays-Bas entretiennent une riche et longue amitié, fondée sur des valeurs communes et des liens étroits entre leurs populations. Nous sommes partenaires au sein de plusieurs organisations internationales, notamment les Nations Unies, l’OTAN et l’Organisation mondiale du commerce. Nous collaborons de près pour faire avancer diverses priorités communes, qu’il s’agisse de soutenir la Cour pénale internationale, d’améliorer la sécurité aérienne par l’intermédiaire de l’Initiative sur la sécurité aérienne ou de travailler à la résolution de la situation en Afghanistan. Nous prenons des mesures climatiques audacieuses dans le cadre de nos engagements à mettre un prix sur la pollution, à investir dans les énergies renouvelables et à promouvoir l’adaptation au climat. Par ailleurs, nos deux pays sont fiers de coprésider cette année la Coalition pour la liberté des médias.

« En octobre, j’ai visité les Pays-Bas pour discuter de nos priorités communes. Je me réjouis à la perspective de poursuivre ma collaboration avec le premier ministre Rutte et de travailler avec les membres de son nouveau cabinet afin de renforcer les liens étroits qui unissent le Canada et les Pays-Bas. Ensemble, nous allons rebâtir en mieux après la pandémie de COVID-19 et favoriser la création d’emplois et la croissance économique pour le bien des travailleurs et des entreprises, notamment grâce à l’Accord économique et commercial global entre le Canada et l’Union européenne. Nous continuerons également de renforcer notre partenariat dans le cadre des efforts que nous déployons pour lutter contre les changements climatiques, protéger les droits de la personne et promouvoir nos valeurs communes que sont la démocratie, la justice, l’égalité, la paix et la sécurité dans le monde. »

Statement by the Prime Minister on the National Day of Remembrance for Victims of Air Disasters

January 8, 2022
Ottawa, Ontario

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on the National Day of Remembrance for Victims of Air Disasters:

“Today, on the second National Day of Remembrance for Victims of Air Disasters, I join Canadians in paying tribute to those who lost their lives to aviation disasters, both at home and abroad. We stand in solidarity with their families and loved ones who continue to live with a profound sense of loss and suffering.

“Canada has been scarred by the devastating toll of aviation tragedies. Two years ago today, Iran shot down Ukraine International Airlines Flight 752 (PS752), tragically taking the lives of all 176 innocent people on board, including 55 Canadian citizens, 30 permanent residents, and many others with ties to Canada. The year before, Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 (ET302) crashed on its way to Nairobi, Kenya, claiming the lives of 157 people, including 18 Canadians and many others with ties to Canada. In 1985, 280 Canadians lost their lives in the terrorist bombing of Air India Flight 182.

“Recognizing the pain and hardship that air disasters bring, the Government of Canada continues to work with its international partners to improve the safety of aviation around the world. This includes our ongoing work to advance the Safer Skies Initiative, which brings together countries, international organizations, and industry partners to increase aviation security over conflict zones through best practices and information sharing, the review of global standards, and open dialogue.

“The government places the victims’ families and loved ones – those who matter the most – at the heart of its response, and is committed to ensuring they are supported. That is why we continue to consult with them on meaningful commemoration initiatives. We have launched a public consultation on a physical tribute to remember those who have lost their lives in air disasters. We are also working with our partners at the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) to help enhance air accident investigations. To date, Canada has secured the support of 55 ICAO member states to review the investigation framework in order to make it more credible, transparent, and impartial. We will continue to work with our international partners to hold Iran accountable for the illegal downing of PS752. We will keep taking meaningful steps to bring transparency, accountability, and justice for the victims of air travel tragedies and their families.

“Today, I invite Canadians to join me in remembering all victims of air travel tragedies and to keep them in our thoughts and hearts. Canada will continue to work with partners across the country and around the world to improve the safety and security of air travel for everyone and help prevent these tragedies from ever happening again.”

Déclaration du premier ministre à l’occasion de la Journée nationale de commémoration des victimes de catastrophes aériennes

Le 8 janvier 2022
Ottawa (Ontario)

Le premier ministre Justin Trudeau a fait aujourd’hui la déclaration suivante à l’occasion de la Journée nationale de commémoration des victimes de catastrophes aériennes :

« Aujourd’hui, en cette deuxième Journée nationale de commémoration des victimes de catastrophes aériennes, je me joins aux Canadiens pour rendre hommage à ceux qui ont perdu la vie lors d’une catastrophe aérienne, au pays comme à l’étranger. Nous sommes solidaires de leurs familles et de leurs proches, qui continuent de vivre avec un profond sentiment de perte et de souffrance.

« Le Canada a été marqué par le bilan dévastateur des tragédies aériennes. Il y a deux ans aujourd’hui, l’Iran a abattu le vol 752 (PS752) de Ukraine International Airlines, tuant tragiquement les 176 innocents qui se trouvaient à bord, dont 55 citoyens canadiens, 30 résidents permanents et de nombreuses autres personnes qui avaient des liens avec le Canada. L’année précédente, le vol 302 d’Ethiopian Airlines (ET302) s’est écrasé en route vers Nairobi, au Kenya, causant la mort de 157 personnes, dont 18 Canadiens et de nombreuses autres personnes ayant des liens avec le Canada. En 1985, 280 Canadiens ont perdu la vie dans l’attentat terroriste contre le vol 182 d’Air India.

« Conscient des souffrances et des épreuves attribuables aux catastrophes aériennes, le gouvernement du Canada continue de travailler avec ses partenaires internationaux afin d’améliorer la sécurité aérienne dans le monde. Il poursuit notamment la promotion de l’Initiative sur la sécurité aérienne, qui réunit des pays, des organisations internationales et des partenaires de l’industrie afin d’améliorer la sécurité aérienne au-dessus des zones de conflit grâce à l’échange de pratiques exemplaires et de renseignements, à l’examen des normes mondiales et à la tenue d’un dialogue ouvert.

« Le gouvernement place les familles et les proches des victimes – ceux qui comptent le plus – au cœur de ses réponses et s’est engagé à faire en sorte qu’ils reçoivent le soutien nécessaire. C’est pourquoi nous continuons de les consulter dans le cadre d’initiatives de commémoration significatives. Nous avons lancé une consultation publique sur un hommage concret à la mémoire de ceux qui ont perdu la vie lors de catastrophes aériennes. Nous travaillons également avec nos partenaires de l’Organisation de l’aviation civile internationale (OACI) afin de favoriser l’amélioration des enquêtes entourant les accidents aériens. À ce jour, le Canada a obtenu l’adhésion de 55 États membres de l’OACI pour procéder à une révision du cadre relatif aux enquêtes afin de le rendre plus crédible, transparent et impartial. Nous continuerons à travailler avec nos partenaires internationaux pour tenir l’Iran responsable de l’abattage illégal du vol PS752. Nous poursuivrons nos efforts en vue de favoriser la transparence, la reddition de comptes et la justice pour les victimes de tragédies aériennes et leurs familles.

« Aujourd’hui, j’invite les Canadiens à se joindre à moi pour rendre hommage à toutes les victimes de catastrophes aériennes et à les garder dans nos pensées et nos cœurs. Le Canada continuera de travailler avec des partenaires de partout à travers le pays et le monde afin d’améliorer la sûreté et la sécurité des transports aériens pour tous et de contribuer à éviter que de telles tragédies se produisent à nouveau. »

Statement by the Prime Minister on Orthodox Christmas

January 7, 2022
Ottawa, Ontario

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on Orthodox Christmas:

“Today, Orthodox Christians and Eastern Rite Catholics in Canada and around the world celebrate Christmas.

“On this joyous occasion, family and friends gather to mark the birth of Jesus Christ, reflect on his message of love, and show gratitude for the many blessings in their lives. Although celebrations may look different again this year, as we keep following public health guidelines to ensure everyone’s safety, Christmas continues to remind us of the values of peace, compassion, and generosity that define us as Canadians and bring us together.

“Christmas is also a time of giving, especially to those in need – whether it’s giving a helping hand, a charitable donation, or a good word. During this festive season, I encourage all Canadians to think of the people around us – friends, neighbours, and community members – who may have experienced hardship this year, or are impacted by the pandemic, and to offer them support.

“On this day, we also recognize the important contributions that Orthodox Christians and Eastern Rite Catholics make to help build a better, fairer, and more inclusive Canada for everyone.

“On behalf of the Government of Canada, Sophie and I wish everyone celebrating today a merry Christmas.”

Déclaration du premier ministre à l’occasion du Noël orthodoxe

Le 7 janvier 2022
Ottawa (Ontario)

Le premier ministre Justin Trudeau a fait aujourd’hui la déclaration suivante à l’occasion du Noël orthodoxe :

« Aujourd’hui, les chrétiens orthodoxes et les catholiques de rite oriental du Canada et d’ailleurs dans le monde célébrent Noël.

« En cette joyeuse occasion, familles et amis se réunissent pour marquer la naissance de Jésus‑Christ, réfléchir à son message d’amour et manifester leur reconnaissance pour les nombreux bienfaits qu’ils ont reçus de la vie. Même si, cette année encore, les célébrations prendront un aspect différent pour nous permettre de respecter les directives de la santé publique et d’assurer la sécurité de tous, Noël nous rappelle encore les valeurs de paix, de compassion et de générosité qui nous définissent comme Canadiens et qui nous unissent.

« Noël est aussi l’occasion de donner, en particulier à ceux qui sont dans le besoin, qu’il s’agisse d’un coup de main, d’un don à un organisme de bienfaisance ou d’un bon mot. Durant cette période festive, j’encourage tous les Canadiens à penser aux gens de leur entourage, qu’il s’agisse d’amis, de voisins ou de membres de leur communauté, qui ont peut-être vécu des moments difficiles cette année ou qui subissent les conséquences de la pandémie, et à leur offrir de l’aide.

« Aujourd’hui, nous saluons également les importantes contributions des chrétiens orthodoxes et des catholiques de rite oriental pour créer un Canada meilleur, plus juste et plus inclusif pour tout le monde.

« Au nom du gouvernement du Canada, Sophie et moi souhaitons un joyeux Noël à tous ceux qui célèbrent aujourd’hui. 

The Prime Minister announces changes in the senior ranks of the Public Service

January 5, 2022
Ottawa, Ontario

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced the following changes in the senior ranks of the Public Service:

Graham Flack, currently Deputy Minister of Employment and Social Development, becomes Secretary of the Treasury Board, effective January 10, 2022.

Jean-François Tremblay, currently Deputy Minister of Natural Resources, becomes Deputy Minister of Employment and Social Development, effective January 10, 2022.

Jody Thomas, currently Deputy Minister of National Defence, becomes National Security and Intelligence Advisor to the Prime Minister, effective January 11, 2022.

Bill Matthews, currently Deputy Minister of Public Services and Procurement, becomes Deputy Minister of National Defence, effective January 11, 2022.

John Hannaford, currently Deputy Minister of International Trade, becomes Deputy Minister of Natural Resources, effective January 10, 2022.

David Morrison, currently Foreign and Defence Policy Advisor to the Prime Minister and Personal Representative of the Prime Minister for the G7 Summit, becomes Deputy Minister of International Trade and Personal Representative of the Prime Minister for the G7 Summit, effective January 11, 2022.

Christopher MacLennan, currently Associate Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Personal Representative of the Prime Minister for the G20 Summit, becomes Deputy Minister of International Development and Personal Representative of the Prime Minister for the G20 Summit, effective January 10, 2022.

Paul Thompson, currently Associate Deputy Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, becomes Deputy Minister of Public Services and Procurement, effective January 11, 2022.

Philip Jennings, currently Deputy Secretary to the Cabinet (Plans and Consultations), Privy Council Office, becomes Senior Advisor to the Privy Council Office, effective January 10, 2022.

Mr. Jennings will be nominated by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance as the next Executive Director for Canada, Ireland, nine Caribbean countries, and Belize at the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Until the IMF election process is complete and he is formally named to the position, Mr. Jennings will serve as Senior Advisor to the Privy Council Office.

Michael Vandergrift becomes Deputy Secretary to the Cabinet (Plans and Consultations), Privy Council Office, in addition to his current role as Deputy Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Privy Council Office, effective January 10, 2022.

Jacqueline Bogden, currently Assistant Deputy Minister, Controlled Substances and Cannabis Branch, Health Canada, becomes Deputy Secretary to the Cabinet (Emergency Preparedness and COVID Recovery), Privy Council Office, effective January 10, 2022.

Dan Costello, currently Assistant Deputy Minister, International Security and Political Affairs, Global Affairs Canada, becomes Foreign and Defence Policy Advisor to the Prime Minister, effective January 11, 2022.

Cynthia (Cindy) Termorshuizen, currently Assistant Deputy Minister, Consular, Security and Emergency Management, Global Affairs Canada, becomes Associate Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, effective January 10, 2022.

Daniel Rogers, currently Deputy Chief, Foreign Signals Intelligence, Communications Security Establishment Canada, becomes Associate Chief of the Communications Security Establishment, effective January 10, 2022.

Stefanie Beck, currently Deputy High Commissioner for Canada in the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, Global Affairs Canada, becomes Associate Deputy Minister of National Defence, effective January 31, 2022.

Mala Khanna, currently Assistant Deputy Minister, Sub-Saharan Africa Branch, Global Affairs Canada, becomes Associate Deputy Minister of Canadian Heritage, effective January 10, 2022.

Francis Bilodeau, currently Senior Assistant Deputy Minister, Strategy and Innovation Policy Sector, Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada, becomes Associate Deputy Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, effective January 10, 2022.

Paul Samson, currently Assistant Deputy Minister, Programs Branch, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, becomes Associate Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, effective January 10, 2022.

The Prime Minister also congratulated the following individuals who have retired from the Public Service, and thanked them for their dedication and service to Canadians:

• Peter Wallace, Secretary of the Treasury Board
• Louise Levonian, Executive Director for Canada, Ireland, nine Caribbean countries, and Belize at the International Monetary Fund
• Vincent Rigby, National Security and Intelligence Advisor to the Prime Minister
• Nancy Chahwan, Senior Associate Deputy Minister of National Defence
• Leslie MacLean, Deputy Minister of International Development
• Les Linklater, Senior Official at the Privy Council Office
• David McGovern, President of the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada
• Thao Pham, Deputy Minister, COVID Recovery, Privy Council Office
• Martine Dubuc, Associate Deputy Minister of Environment and Climate Change
• Monik Beauregard, Associate Deputy Minister of Public Safety

Biographical Notes

• Graham Flack
• Jean-François Tremblay
• Jody Thomas
• Bill Matthews
• John Hannaford
• David Morrison
• Christopher MacLennan
• Paul Thompson
• Philip Jennings
• Michael Vandergrift
• Jacqueline Bogden
• Dan Costello
• Cynthia (Cindy) Termorshuizen
• Daniel Rogers
• Stefanie Beck
• Mala Khanna
• Francis Bilodeau
• Paul Samson

Le premier ministre annonce des changements aux échelons supérieurs de la fonction publique

Le 5 janvier 2022
Ottawa (Ontario)

Le premier ministre Justin Trudeau a annoncé aujourd’hui les changements suivants aux échelons supérieurs de la fonction publique :

Graham Flack, actuellement sous-ministre de l’Emploi et du Développement social, devient secrétaire du Conseil du Trésor, à compter du 10 janvier 2022.

Jean-François Tremblay, actuellement sous-ministre des Ressources naturelles, devient sous-ministre de l’Emploi et du Développement social, à compter du 10 janvier 2022.

Jody Thomas, actuellement sous-ministre de la Défense nationale, devient conseillère à la sécurité nationale et au renseignement auprès du premier ministre, à compter du 11 janvier 2022.

Bill Matthews, actuellement sous-ministre des Services publics et de l’Approvisionnement, devient sous-ministre de la Défense nationale, à compter du 11 janvier 2022.

John Hannaford, actuellement sous-ministre du Commerce international, devient sous-ministre des Ressources naturelles, à compter du 10 janvier 2022.

David Morrison, actuellement conseiller de la politique étrangère et de la défense auprès du premier ministre et représentant personnel du premier ministre pour le Sommet du G7, devient sous-ministre du Commerce international et représentant personnel du premier ministre pour le Sommet du G7, à compter du 11 janvier 2022.

Christopher MacLennan, actuellement sous-ministre délégué des Affaires étrangères et représentant personnel du premier ministre pour le Sommet du G20, devient sous-ministre du Développement international et représentant personnel du premier ministre pour le Sommet du G20, à compter du 10 janvier 2022.

Paul Thompson, actuellement sous-ministre délégué de l’Innovation, des Sciences et du Développement économique, devient sous-ministre des Services publics et de l’Approvisionnement, à compter du 11 janvier 2022.

Philip Jennings, actuellement sous-secrétaire du Cabinet (Planification et consultations), Bureau du Conseil privé, devient conseiller principal auprès du Bureau du Conseil privé, à compter du 10 janvier 2022.

M. Jennings sera mis en candidature par la vice-première ministre et ministre des Finances afin de devenir le prochain administrateur du Fonds monétaire international (FMI) représentant le Canada, l’Irlande, neuf pays des Caraïbes et le Belize. D’ici la conclusion du processus de nomination au FMI et jusqu’à ce qu’il accède officiellement à ce poste, M. Jennings servira à titre de conseiller principal auprès du Bureau du Conseil privé.

Michael Vandergrift devient sous-secrétaire du Cabinet (Planification et consultations), Bureau du Conseil privé, et conserve ses fonctions actuelles de sous-ministre des Affaires intergouvernementales, Bureau du Conseil privé, à compter du 10 janvier 2022.

Jacqueline Bogden, actuellement sous-ministre adjointe, Direction générale des substances contrôlées et du cannabis, Santé Canada, devient sous-secrétaire du Cabinet (Protection civile et relance suite à la COVID), Bureau du Conseil privé, à compter du 10 janvier 2022.

Dan Costello, actuellement sous-ministre adjoint, Sécurité internationale et affaires politiques, Affaires mondiales Canada, devient conseiller de la politique étrangère et de la défense auprès du premier ministre, à compter du 11 janvier 2022.

Cynthia (Cindy) Termorshuizen, actuellement sous-ministre adjointe, Secteur des services consulaires, de la sécurité et de la gestion des urgences, Affaires mondiales Canada, devient sous-ministre déléguée des Affaires étrangères, à compter du 10 janvier 2022.

Daniel Rogers, actuellement sous-chef, Renseignement électromagnétique étranger, Centre de la sécurité des télécommunications Canada, devient chef adjoint du Centre de la sécurité des télécommunications, à compter du 10 janvier 2022.

Stefanie Beck, actuellement haute-commissaire adjointe du Canada au Royaume-Uni de Grande-Bretagne et d’Irlande du Nord, Affaires mondiales Canada, devient sous-ministre déléguée de la Défense nationale, à compter du 31 janvier 2022.

Mala Khanna, actuellement sous-ministre adjointe, Direction générale de l’Afrique subsaharienne, Affaires mondiales Canada, devient sous-ministre déléguée du Patrimoine canadien, à compter du 10 janvier 2022.

Francis Bilodeau, actuellement sous-ministre adjoint principal, Secteur des politiques (stratégie et innovation), Innovation, Sciences et Développement économique Canada, devient sous-ministre délégué de l’Innovation, des Sciences et du Développement économique, à compter du 10 janvier 2022.

Paul Samson, actuellement sous-ministre adjoint, Direction générale des programmes, Agriculture et Agroalimentaire Canada, devient sous-ministre délégué de l’Agriculture et de l’Agroalimentaire, à compter du 10 janvier 2022.

Le premier ministre a également félicité les personnes suivantes qui ont pris leur retraite de la fonction publique et les a remerciées de leur dévouement envers les Canadiens ainsi que des services qu’elles leur ont rendus :

• Peter Wallace, secrétaire du Conseil du Trésor
• Louise Levonian, administratrice du Fonds Monétaire International représentant le Canada, l’Irlande, neuf pays des Caraïbes et le Belize
• Vincent Rigby, conseiller à la sécurité nationale et au renseignement auprès du premier ministre
• Nancy Chahwan, sous-ministre déléguée principale de la Défense nationale
• Leslie MacLean, sous-ministre du Développement international
• Les Linklater, haut fonctionnaire au Bureau du Conseil privé
• David McGovern, président de l’Agence d’évaluation d’impact du Canada
• Thao Pham, sous-ministre, Relance suite à la COVID, Bureau du Conseil privé
• Martine Dubuc, sous-ministre déléguée de l’Environnement et du Changement climatique
• Monik Beauregard, sous-ministre déléguée de la Sécurité publique

Notes biographiques

• Graham Flack
• Jean-François Tremblay
• Jody Thomas
• Bill Matthews
• John Hannaford
• David Morrison
• Christopher MacLennan
• Paul Thompson
• Philip Jennings
• Michael Vandergrift
• Jacqueline Bogden
• Dan Costello
• Cynthia (Cindy) Termorshuizen
• Daniel Rogers
• Stefanie Beck
• Mala Khanna
• Francis Bilodeau
• Paul Samson