Prime Minister Justin Trudeau speaks with Alberta Premier Danielle Smith
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May 8, 2023
Ottawa, Ontario
Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke with the Premier of Alberta, Danielle Smith, to discuss the impacts of the wildfires in Alberta.
The Prime Minister indicated that the Government of Canada is ready to help Alberta and Albertans. The leaders spoke about the number of evacuees and the situation on the ground. They also discussed federal and provincial responses to date and noted the firefighting support provided to Alberta from other provinces.
Prime Minister Trudeau and Premier Smith explored ways the federal and provincial governments would continue to work together to support Albertans. The Prime Minister noted that work is underway to determine how the Government of Canada can best accommodate the supports identified by Alberta in its draft Request for Assistance.
The Prime Minister reiterated the commitment of the federal government to keep working with provincial, municipal, and First Nations partners to provide support in the areas affected by the wildfires. The Prime Minister and the Premier also recognized the work of first responders and emergency relief organizations in providing support to impacted communities. The Government of Canada is also working with the Canadian Red Cross to help create a fund-matching campaign to support emergency services in Alberta, if required.
The leaders agreed to stay in close contact as the situation in Alberta evolves.
Associated Link
May 8, 2023
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on National Nursing Week, which runs from May 8 to 14:
“Today, we mark the beginning of National Nursing Week, a time to celebrate the tremendous contributions that nurses have made – and continue to make – across the country. This year’s theme – Our Nurses. Our Future. – recognizes the many roles that nurses play, from tending to our kids’ cuts and scrapes to being with our loved ones in their final moments. Nurses are the backbone of our health care system.
“In the last few years in particular, nurses had our backs, and today, we reaffirm that we will have their backs, too. Earlier this year, we made a plan to improve health care for Canadians by increasing health care funding by more than $198 billion over the next 10 years, including to support our health care workforce and address backlogs in the system. Last year, we announced the appointment of Dr. Leigh Chapman as the new Chief Nursing Officer of Canada, and she has since been working with key partners, including provinces and territories, to improve health care for Canadians by addressing challenges related to nursing, like labour shortages. And to help more international health professionals begin working in Canada more quickly, the Government of Canada is working with provinces and territories to streamline foreign credential recognition for internationally educated health professionals.
“Nurses are there for us when we need it most. On this first day of National Nursing Week, we thank our hardworking nurses for the lifesaving work they do day in and day out with such care and compassion – and we work to build a health care system that works for all Canadians.”
May 7, 2023
London, United Kingdom
Yesterday, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with the Prime Minister of New Zealand, Chris Hipkins, on the margins of the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III. The leaders noted Canada and New Zealand’s shared history as members of the Commonwealth.
The prime ministers reaffirmed the close friendship and strong collaboration between Canada and New Zealand. They discussed opportunities to further strengthen the relationship through combatting violent extremism and promoting peace and security. They talked about advancing trade that benefits everyone and the importance of reliable supply chains. The prime ministers also spoke about advancing meaningful reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples.
The leaders spoke about continuing the fight against climate change. They highlighted the work they’re each doing to advance clean tech and reach net-zero. The leaders also stressed the need for both mitigation and adaptation when it comes to dealing with the impacts of extreme weather events.
Prime Minister Trudeau underscored the importance of New Zealand as a partner and ally in the Indo-Pacific region and on the global stage. The prime ministers discussed the shared challenges of foreign interference that many international partners are facing, and the importance of continuing to work together to combat it.
Prime Minister Trudeau and Prime Minister Hipkins agreed to keep working closely together to address common interests and challenges in the Indo-Pacific region and around the world.
Associated Links
May 7, 2023
London, United Kingdom
Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with the President of Ghana, Nana Akufo-Addo, on the margins of the Coronation of King Charles III in London, United Kingdom.
The two leaders discussed the situation in Sudan and related mediation efforts, and expressed their deep concern with the ongoing violence and its significant humanitarian consequences, which threaten to destabilize the entire region. They called for an immediate ceasefire that is respected by both parties and highlighted that the international community must speak with one voice to encourage a settlement. Prime Minister Trudeau reiterated that Canada is supportive of African-led efforts to resolve the conflict.
Prime Minister Trudeau and President Akufo-Addo exchanged views on democratic backsliding as well as the rise of instability and efforts to preserve stability in West Africa. The Prime Minister expressed his concern about increasing instability and terrorism in the Sahel. He noted Canada’s commitment to the region and underscored the stability of the Gulf Coast countries as a priority. He commended Ghana’s leadership in addressing peace and security issues in the region.
The two leaders discussed the ongoing reform efforts of international financial institutions. Prime Minister Trudeau expressed Canada’s support for efforts to reform multilateral development banks to better address the needs of emerging and developing economies so they may have access to improved international financing and sustainable debt management. He shared his intention to seek greater ambition and unity within the G7 to this end.
Prime Minister Trudeau commended President Akufo-Addo for Ghana’s efforts to promote democracy and gender equality, and also shared his concern about backsliding around the world on human rights.
The two leaders reaffirmed their desire to continue working together to strengthen the Canada-Ghana relationship and advance shared values, including democracy, peace, and security.
Related links
- Canada-Ghana relations
- Canada and Sub-Saharan Africa
- Prime Minister celebrates the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III
- Canada temporarily suspends operations in Sudan
- The human rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, 2-spirit and intersex persons
May 6, 2023
London, United Kingdom
Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Rishi Sunak.
The prime ministers discussed Russia’s illegal and unjustified invasion of Ukraine and reiterated their ongoing and steadfast support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. They spoke of the need to further coordinate support for Ukraine’s reconstruction efforts, noting the upcoming Ukraine Reconstruction Conference in London next month.
Prime Minister Trudeau and Prime Minister Sunak expressed ongoing concern with the consequences of Russia’s actions for the Global South and agreed to further advance initiatives with allies and G7 partners to support those most affected, including through greater collaboration to increase equitable access to concessional financing for low- and middle-income countries.
The prime ministers agreed on the importance of close coordination between partners and allies to build the resilient supply chains required to advance the transition toward low-carbon economies.
The two leaders spoke of the extremely close and productive relations between Canada and the UK. Prime Minister Trudeau welcomed the UK’s accession to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership, and looked forward to the conclusion of an ambitious bilateral free trade agreement.
The two leaders also reaffirmed their commitment to ongoing collaboration on national security. They looked forward to working together to advance mutual priorities, such as economic security, at the upcoming G7 Summit in Hiroshima, Japan.
Prime Minister Trudeau and Prime Minister Sunak agreed to continue coordinating closely on shared priorities.
Associated Links
- Canada-United Kingdom relations
- Canada’s response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine
- Canada and the United Kingdom Sign Critical Minerals Supply Chain Dialogue to Strengthen Collaboration
- Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP)
- Canada-United Kingdom Free Trade Agreement
May 5, 2023
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on Vesak:
“Today, we celebrate Vesak, the most sacred festival for hundreds of millions of Buddhists around the world. Vesak commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and death of Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism.
“Vesak is a day for charity, reflection, and celebration. On this day, many Buddhists will visit their temples to pray, sing hymns, and make offerings. Some will light paper lanterns and release them into the sky, while others will mount spectacular light displays to celebrate the Buddha’s life. This occasion will also be marked with various acts of kindness, as people give back to those less fortunate in their communities.
“Vesak invites all of us to reflect on the Buddha’s teachings of compassion, peace, and goodwill – values that inspire people all over the world and unite us as Canadians. As we draw inspiration from more than 2,500 years of Buddhist wisdom, we recognize the important contributions Buddhist communities have made, and continue to make, to Canada, and we renew our commitment to building a fairer, stronger, and more inclusive country for everyone.
“On behalf of our family, Sophie and I wish everyone celebrating Vesak, in Canada and around the world, a joyful and peaceful day.”
May 4, 2023
Ottawa, Ontario
Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke with the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen.
The leaders discussed Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine and its impacts, including for the Global South. They agreed to further pursue joint efforts with Allies and G7 partners to support those most affected by the consequences of Russian aggression, and increase equitable access to concessional financing for low- and middle-income countries.
The Prime Minister and the President discussed the importance of close coordination between partners and Allies to build resilient supply chains, and recognized the importance of Canada and the European Union’s carbon pricing mechanisms. They looked forward to further advancing bold action on climate and the transition toward low-carbon economies.
The two leaders agreed on the need to stabilize the crisis in Haiti, including through a coordinated approach to address impunity, hold those who promote violence and instability accountable, and facilitate Haitian-led solutions.
Prime Minister Trudeau and President von der Leyen agreed to continue coordinating closely on shared priorities.
Associated Links
- Canada and the European Union
- Prime Minister Justin Trudeau meets with the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen
- Canada’s response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine
May 3, 2023
Ottawa, Ontario
Yesterday, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with the Premier of Nunavut, P.J. Akeeagok, to discuss shared priorities.
The Prime Minister and Premier discussed progress in addressing housing needs in Nunavut and the territory’s plan to build 3,000 homes by 2030. They agreed on the need for close cooperation between orders of governments, as well as Inuit and other key partners to fill the housing gap.
The two leaders agreed to continue advancing discussions on reaching a bilateral health agreement that recognizes the unique circumstances of the North. They discussed infrastructure needs in the North, particularly as it relates to Arctic security and sovereignty, and the importance of collaborating to meet local needs and supporting economic reconciliation with Inuit.
Prime Minister Trudeau and Premier Akeeagok also highlighted the collective work undertaken by the governments of Canada and Nunavut as well as Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated (NTI), the legal body representing Inuit and their treaty rights in the territory, to reach a Nunavut Devolution Final Agreement. The leaders agreed that all involved must continue collaborating to achieve a final agreement so that Nunavummiut, the inhabitants of Nunavut, will finally have full decision-making power over their lands and resources.
The Prime Minister and Premier reflected on the strong partnership between the two orders of government and looked forward to continued collaboration in support of these and other key priorities for Nunavummiut.
Associated Links
- Joint statement by the Prime Minister and the Premier of Nunavut
- Nunavut devolution
- Canada and the Circumpolar regions
- Arctic and Northern Policy Framework
- Inuit - Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada
May 3, 2023
Ottawa, Ontario
Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke with the President of Kenya, William Ruto, about the situation in Sudan.
The two leaders expressed their deep concern about the hostilities taking place in Khartoum and across the country, and about the impact of the conflict on civilians and vulnerable populations. They discussed the risks to regional stability and the potential impact on neighbouring countries.
Prime Minister Trudeau thanked President Ruto for his personal involvement in ongoing mediation efforts to find a peaceful solution to the conflict, and a way to ensure Sudan can continue on its path to a democratic transition. He underscored Canadian support for a regional solution to the crisis and for the important work being undertaken through the African Union and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) in Eastern Africa.
The Prime Minister expressed gratitude for Kenya’s valuable assistance, which was vital to Canada’s evacuation operations.
The two leaders exchanged views on broader regional peace and security issues, including in Somalia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Ethiopia as well as the ongoing crisis in Haiti. Prime Minister Trudeau highlighted Canada’s efforts to stabilize the Haitian National Police, to hold those who promote violence and instability accountable, and to facilitate a Haitian-led solution. The leaders agreed to continue working closely together, along with partners, to support Haiti’s stability and advance a Haitian-led solution to the crisis.
On global challenges, the Prime Minister and the President underscored the importance of working together on shared priorities to promote a clean economy and increase equitable access to concessional financing for low- and middle-income countries.
Prime Minister Trudeau and President Ruto committed to remain in close contact.
Associated Links
- Canada-Kenya relations
- Canada’s response to the crisis in Sudan
- Canada and Sub-Saharan Africa
- Prime Minister Justin Trudeau speaks with President of Kenya William Ruto
May 3, 2023
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced that the Governor General appointed Jane MacAdam and Iris Petten as independent senators to fill vacancies for Prince Edward Island and Newfoundland and Labrador, respectively.
Jane MacAdam is a Chartered Professional Accountant with over 40 years of experience in legislative auditing, including serving as Auditor General of Prince Edward Island. Throughout her career, Ms. MacAdam has been a member of various professional organizations and committees, including the Canadian Council of Legislative Auditors. In 2019, Ms. MacAdam received a Fellow designation from the Chartered Professional Accountants of Prince Edward Island, in recognition of her exceptional leadership and service to the profession.
Iris Petten is an entrepreneur, community volunteer, and senior executive with over 35 years of experience in the fishing industry. Ms. Petten has maintained a close connection with coastal communities, having served on several boards and volunteered with numerous organizations in the province. Ms. Petten is the proud recipient of an Honorary Doctor of Laws from Memorial University of Newfoundland, where she served three terms as the chair of the Board of Regents from 2013 to 2022.
Ms. MacAdam and Ms. Petten were recommended by the Independent Advisory Board for Senate Appointments, and chosen using a merit-based process open to all Canadians. This process ensures senators are independent, reflect Canada’s diversity, and are able to tackle the broad range of challenges and opportunities facing the country.
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“Today, I welcome Jane MacAdam and Iris Petten as Parliament’s newest independent senators. I know that their unique perspectives, wealth of knowledge, and passion for people will help them be strong voices for Atlantic Canadians. I look forward to working with them, and with all senators, as we continue to make life better for all Canadians.”
Quick Facts
- The Senate is the Upper House in Canada’s parliamentary democracy. It unites a diverse group of accomplished Canadians in service of their country. Created to counterbalance representation by population in the House of Commons, the Senate not only defends regional interests, it also creates space for the voices of historically underrepresented groups like Indigenous Peoples, racialized communities, and women.
- With today’s announcement, there have been 68 independent appointments to the Senate made on the advice of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
- Under the Canadian Constitution, the Governor General appoints individuals to the Senate. By convention, senators are appointed on the advice of the Prime Minister.
- In 2016, the selection process for senators was opened to all Canadians. Candidate submissions are reviewed by the Independent Advisory Board for Senate Appointments, which provides recommendations to the Prime Minister.
- The Board is guided by public, transparent, non-partisan, and merit-based criteria to identify highly qualified candidates.
- Once appointed by the Governor General, new senators join their peers to examine and revise legislation, investigate national issues, and represent regional, provincial and territorial, and minority interests – important functions in a modern democracy.
Biographical Notes
Associated Links
- Independent Advisory Board for Senate Appointments
- Senate Appointments Process – Questions and Answers
- Senate of Canada
May 3, 2023
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on World Press Freedom Day:
“Journalists work tirelessly to report the truth, help hold governments accountable, and provide Canadians with accurate, reliable, and trustworthy information. Today, as we celebrate the 30th anniversary of World Press Freedom Day, we are reminded of the fundamental role that a free and independent press plays in our democracy.
“Today, we express our gratitude to the journalists who continue to report the facts, give a voice to the voiceless, and often put themselves at risk to deliver timely and accurate information to the world, including those covering Russia’s ongoing, brutal invasion of Ukraine. We stand in solidarity with journalists in Iran who are facing brutal repression and severe restrictions for covering the Iranian regime’s crackdowns on protests. We also recognize the brave work of journalists in Sudan and other conflict areas around the world, who are keeping the world updated on conflicts and the horrifying impacts they are having on people.
“We have made important progress toward achieving a free press around the world in recent decades. But we know more work needs to be done as journalists continue to face harassment, censorship, restrictive laws, and violence simply for doing their jobs. The Government of Canada will always support the safety of the media, protect access to information, and promote the freedom of the press – both at home and abroad.
“Right now, the journalism industry is contending with a rapidly changing global landscape, increasing disinformation and misinformation, and attempts to undermine media freedom worldwide. As Co-Chair of the Media Freedom Coalition, Canada is working with international partners to promote and protect media freedom. The Government of Canada also continues to work with industry, community, and government partners by supporting projects that help address the growing problem of online disinformation, like the Shooting the Messenger project from the University of British Columbia, which aims to investigate and help counteract online campaigns to discredit and harass journalists.
“On this World Press Freedom Day, we recognize the progress made to achieve a free and independent press around the world, and we recommit to the work left to do at this critical time. We know that Canada is not immune to the challenges facing the free press. Today, I invite all Canadians to reflect on the significance of an independent media and to commit to upholding this fundamental pillar of democracy and a key part of who we are. Let us also pay tribute to the tireless efforts of journalists who speak truth to power and acknowledge those who are imprisoned, endangered, have been injured, or lost their lives while defending the freedom of the press.”
May 2, 2023
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on the death of Gordon Lightfoot:
“I was deeply saddened to hear of the passing yesterday of Gordon Lightfoot, one of Canada’s greatest singer-songwriters.
“Mr. Lightfoot gave us so many special moments over the years. With a career that spanned over half a century, Mr. Lightfoot’s music told stories that captured the Canadian spirit, none more so than his iconic Canadian Railroad Trilogy, which will forever be a part of our country’s musical heritage.
“I had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Lightfoot as a child – he spent the afternoon in the Gatineau Hills with my family, and it is a memory I will always cherish.
“Mr. Lightfoot received many Juno Awards and Grammy nominations, and was honoured as a member of Canada’s Walk of Fame, the Canadian Music Hall of Fame, the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame, the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame, and the Songwriters Hall of Fame. He received the Governor General's Performing Arts Award in 1997, and was appointed Companion of the Order of Canada in 2003.
“On behalf of all Canadians, Sophie and I express our deepest sympathies to Gordon’s family, friends, and his many, many fans. His legacy will live on in the dynamic Canadian soundscape he helped to shape."
May 2, 2023
Ottawa, Ontario
Today, the Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, and the Premier of Nunavut, P.J. Akeeagok, released the following joint statement:
“During today’s meeting we made progress on some key priorities that will make a real difference in the lives of Nunavummiut, the residents of Nunavut. Our bilateral meeting took place as part of ‘Nunavut on the Hill’, a two-day working visit to Parliament where Nunavut’s Cabinet participates in meetings with the federal government. Especially on housing, health care, climate change, Arctic security and sovereignty, and Nunavut devolution, our governments are aligned and committed to working together to achieve concrete results for people in Nunavut and beyond.
“Making life better for people starts with ensuring everyone has a safe and affordable place to live. By investing in and working together to close the housing gap, we can improve people’s health and support healing. Nunavut has developed a plan to work with Inuit, the Government of Canada, and industry partners to build 3,000 homes in the territory by 2030. These partnerships have allowed the Government of Nunavut to start construction on 150 new units this year. Nunavut’s plans align with Canada’s Budget 2023, which announced an additional $4 billion investment to implement an Urban, Rural, and Northern Indigenous Housing Strategy, currently under co-development with Indigenous partners. This strategy is about building on the existing distinction-based housing strategies and could be leveraged to help achieve the territory’s housing goals.
“In Canada, we know how important it is for our universal public health care system to stay strong. But our system needs to work for everyone. Nunavut’s community health centres are facing closures due to limited staffing, and there are additional challenges in delivering health care to communities that are accessible only by air. As part of the Government of Canada’s recent, significant investments to improve health care for people – increasing existing investments by more than $198 billion over the next 10 years – the governments of Canada and Nunavut will continue to advance discussions for health transfers and agreements that meet the territory’s unique circumstances, support Nunavummiut who are aging, ensure Elders can age with dignity at home, and prioritize the collection of health information to deliver better care and modern health infrastructure.
“Canada’s efforts to defend the Arctic coast must always include input from Northerners. As Canada and the United States modernize the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD), they will work together with partners, local communities, and other orders of government, to ensure new infrastructure meets local needs and supports economic reconciliation with Inuit.
“Our governments continue to work together with partners toward a devolution agreement that would provide the Government of Nunavut with authority over the management of public lands, fresh waters, and natural resources. Any agreement would support a smooth transition between government administration and a devolved territory would respect the rights of Nunavummiut.
“On these key priorities and beyond, our governments will continue to work together to achieve real results for Nunavummiut and all Canadians.”
May 1, 2023
Ottawa, Ontario
Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke with the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
The Prime Minister reiterated Canada’s solidarity with the Ukrainian people as they remain resolute in the face of Russia’s brutal and unjustifiable aggression, including strikes on civilian targets and the unlawful deportation of Ukrainian children to Russia.
The two leaders discussed the situation on the ground and how Canada can continue to support Ukraine, now and in the future. The Prime Minister reiterated Canada’s commitment to stand by Ukraine with military, humanitarian, financial, and other assistance for as long as it takes.
The Prime Minister also expressed support for Ukraine’s diplomatic efforts toward a just peace, and looked forward to President Zelenskyy’s virtual participation in the upcoming G7 Summit in Hiroshima, Japan.
The two leaders reaffirmed their intention to remain in close and regular contact.
Associated Links
- Prime Minister Justin Trudeau speaks with President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy
- Supporting Ukraine for as long as it takes
- Canada’s response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine
- Canada-Ukraine relations
- Canada and the G7
April 28, 2023
New York City, United States of America
Yesterday, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, at the Global Citizen NOW Summit in New York City, United States of America.
The leaders discussed Russia’s ongoing illegal and unjustifiable invasion of Ukraine and its impact on the global cost of living and food insecurity. They agreed to continue to pursue joint efforts with Allies and G7 partners to support those most affected by the consequences of Russian aggression, including in the Global South.
The Prime Minister and President also discussed avenues to further advance Canada-European Union collaboration in the Indo-Pacific and agreed on the importance of transatlantic unity in the region.
Prime Minister Trudeau and President von der Leyen reaffirmed their strong commitment to continued and close cooperation.
Associated Links
- Canada and the European Union
- Joint press release on the occasion of the visit to Canada of European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen
- Prime Minister Justin Trudeau meets with President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen
- Canada-European Union Comprehensive Economic Trade Agreement (CETA)
- Global Citizen NOW
April 28, 2023
New York City, United States
Canada is a global leader in advancing gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls. As women’s rights are increasingly threatened around the world, Canada will continue to step up. Over the past two days, the Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, had a successful visit to New York City where he continued work to advance gender equality internationally at the Global Citizen NOW summit.
In the face of rising global challenges and threats to democracy and human rights – including women’s rights, the Prime Minister highlighted Canada’s Feminist International Assistance Policy (FIAP) and its overarching objectives of reducing poverty, advancing gender equality and human rights, supporting lasting peace and security, and implementing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to build a more equal, peaceful, and healthy world.
Weakened democracies and geopolitical instability have threatened to undermine women’s rights and the work and safety of women’s rights organizations, women human rights defenders, women peacebuilders, and young feminists. That’s why yesterday, Canada announced $195 million over five years and $43.3 million per year ongoing for the renewal and expansion of the Women’s Voice and Leadership Program. This is a flagship initiative to support women’s rights organizations and lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer, and intersex (LBTQI) groups working for women’s rights and gender equality around the world. The renewal and expansion of the program reaffirms Canada’s longstanding commitment and leadership in supporting women’s rights organizations to advance gender equality and women’s rights where it is needed most, including in conflict and crisis-affected areas.
While in New York, the Prime Minister, with his co-Chair the Prime Minister of Barbados, Mia Mottley, convened the SDG Advocates Group to accelerate work towards achieving the SDGs and creating momentum ahead of the SDG Summit in September 2023. The Prime Minister reiterated Canada's commitment to implementing the SDGs and building a better future at home and abroad.
During his visit, Prime Minister Trudeau also underscored Canada’s strong leadership on climate action and the continued need to advocate for women, who are particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, as they often bear responsibility for securing food and water for example. He also stressed the importance of fully leveraging the capacity of the Multilateral Development Banks to improve the ability of low-and middle-income countries, especially those affected by the impacts of climate change, to access the financing they need to confront unprecedented overlapping crises.
While in New York, Prime Minister Trudeau delivered a keynote address at the Council on Foreign Relations to an audience of leaders in banking, finance, policy. He highlighted Canada’s unique partnership with the United States, affirming that the bonds that unite our two countries are a source of strength in the advancement of our domestic, regional and global objectives, including our mutual and deep commitment to democracy, human rights, and the rules-based international order. The Prime Minister further underlined Canada’s role as a reliable and responsible partner for trade and investment and the importance of Canada and the United States working together in areas of mutual interest such as critical minerals, electric vehicles, semiconductors supply chains, and clean energy.
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“As we implement game-changing policies that help women in Canada like $10-a-day child care, we must also support women around the world who are seeing their hard-fought rights repealed and clawed back. In places like Iran, Afghanistan, and beyond, Canada will continue to be there as a partner for women’s rights organizations fighting for equality. Only when we achieve gender equality, can we truly build a more peaceful, equal, and healthy world for everyone.”
Quick Facts
- The Prime Minister was joined by Canada’s Ambassador for Women Peace and Security, Jacqueline O’Neil, at the Global Citizen NOW event.
- In New York City, Prime Minister Trudeau held bilateral meetings with the Prime Minister of Barbados, Mia Mottley and the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen.
- The Prime Minister also participated in an interview with the Executive Director of the United Nations Office of Partnerships, Annemarie Hwa Hou where he reiterated his call for accelerated, collective efforts to achieve the SDGs, including the need to work together to achieve inclusive and equitable quality education for all.
- In 2021-22, 99 per cent of Canada’s bilateral international assistance either targeted or integrated gender equality.
- Since its inception in 2017, the Women’s Voice and Leadership program has supported more than 1500 local women’s rights organizations in over 30 countries and regions.
Related Products
- Prime Minister to participate in Global Citizen NOW summit
- Prime Minister Justin Trudeau meets with Prime Minister of Barbados Mia Mottley
Associated Links
- United Nations - Sustainable Development
- Transforming our world: the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development
- SDG Advocates
- Moving Forward Together: Canada’s 2030 Agenda National Strategy
April 28, 2023
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on the National Day of Mourning:
“Today, on the National Day of Mourning, we come together to remember all Canadians who were killed, injured, or became ill because of workplace accidents. Our thoughts go to those who live with the trauma of these tragedies, including the families carrying the weight of a loved one’s absence.
“Established more than 30 years ago, this day invites us to reaffirm our commitment to creating safer and healthier workplaces for everyone. The Government of Canada has stepped up to improve workplace safety standards and practices, including by modernizing our compliance and enforcement regime under the Canada Labour Code, which protects federally regulated workers. These changes are helping to ensure there are strong consequences for employers who violate workplace safety standards and put hardworking Canadians in harm’s way.
“Canadian workers drive our economy. They are helping to attract historic investments and strengthening Canada’s position as a global leader across a range of industries, including critical minerals and electric vehicle manufacturing. As the federal government invests to support projects and create new opportunities across the country, we are making sure the safety of workers is a top priority, including for those who work in particularly difficult conditions. For example, we recently announced an investment to help critical mineral producer BHP improve worker safety as it develops a world-leading potash mine in Saskatchewan.
“We also continue to support the important work of the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety, to end work-related illnesses and injuries through a range of accessible safety services and resources for workers and employers alike, and to combat workplace harassment and violence. We have also made 10 days of paid sick leave a reality in all federally regulated private sector workplaces — because no one should have to choose between staying home when they are sick or paying their bills.
“On this sombre day, I invite all Canadians to join me in honouring the workers who lost their lives or have been injured on the job, and keeping their loved ones in our thoughts. As we mourn, we recommit to creating healthier workplaces where everyone can feel safe to go to work.”
