Prime Minister Justin Trudeau meets with Prime Minister of Barbados Mia Mottley
October 20, 2023
Toronto, Ontario
Yesterday, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with the Prime Minister of Barbados, Mia Mottley, on the margins of the first ever Canada-Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Summit on Canadian soil. He was joined by the Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth, Marci Ien.
The prime ministers underscored the launch of the Canada-CARICOM Strategic Partnership and how it will help build on the already strong, longstanding relationship between Canada and CARICOM members. Prime Minister Mottley thanked Prime Minister Trudeau for his commitment toward regional collaboration and for Canada’s hosting of CARICOM leaders.
The two leaders highlighted their collaboration on shared priorities, particularly advancing the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals and climate resilience, building inclusive and sustainable economies, defending the rules-based international order, as well as strengthening regional security and stability. They also spoke about the importance of improving access to concessional financing, including by exploring channeling Special Drawing Rights to climate funds that are accessible to small-island developing states.
Prime Minister Trudeau reiterated Canada’s commitment to working with CARICOM, the UN, and other international partners to re-establish peace and security in Haiti.
Prime Minister Trudeau and Prime Minister Mottley looked forward to making progress on shared priorities and remaining in regular contact.
Associated Links
- Canada-Barbados relations
- Caribbean Community (CARICOM)
- Prime Minister and Caribbean leaders take next steps to fight climate change, grow strong economies, and strengthen regional security
- Canada to welcome Caribbean leaders to Ottawa to strengthen ties
- Prime Minister Justin Trudeau speaks with Prime Minister of Barbados Mia Mottley
October 20, 2023
Ottawa, Ontario
Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke with the Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia, His Highness Mohammed bin Salman.
The two leaders discussed the situation in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza. The Prime Minister condemned the horrific attack against Israeli civilians, as well as the bombing of Al-Ahli Hospital in Gaza, and the ongoing hostage situation. Prime Minister Trudeau reiterated Canada’s longstanding support for a two-state solution and for the right of Israelis and Palestinians to live in peace and security.
The two leaders expressed their deep concerns with the humanitarian impact of the conflict in Gaza and stressed the importance that all parties protect civilians and ensure humanitarian access to the affected areas.
The two leaders discussed the regional security implications of the current situation and efforts toward de-escalation to prevent further deaths of innocent civilians.
The leaders discussed the Canada-Saudi Arabia relationship and looked forward to their next meeting.
Associated Links
- Canada-Saudi Arabia relations
- Canada’s response to the crisis in Israel, the West Bank and the Gaza Strip
- Statement by the Prime Minister on the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip
- Government of Canada helping Canadians affected by crisis in Israel, West Bank and Gaza Strip
- Prime Minister Justin Trudeau convenes the Incident Response Group to discuss Hamas’ attacks against Israel
October 20, 2023
Brampton, Ontario
Right now, in communities across the country, building the housing we need, especially affordable housing, is too hard. That’s why the federal government is working with municipalities to break down barriers and build more homes, faster so Canadians – from young families, to seniors, to newcomers – can find a place to call home, at a price they can afford.
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced that the federal government has reached an agreement with the City of Brampton, Ontario, to fast track over 3,150 new housing units over the next three years. This work will help spur the construction of more than 24,000 homes over the next decade and help meet the demand in Brampton.
Under the Housing Accelerator Fund, this agreement will provide over $114 million to eliminate barriers to building the housing we need, faster. It will allow for high-density development near the city’s transit corridors, reduce barriers to the development of housing in key areas of the city – such as urban centres, boulevards, and major public transit stations – and result in the creation of new incentive programs for affordable housing. Brampton has also committed to expanding the as-of-right zoning permission for housing, including permitting four residential units and four storeys within 800 metres of transit, which covers the vast majority of the city. These initiatives are going to significantly improve the way housing is built in one of Canada’s fastest growing municipalities.
The Housing Accelerator Fund is helping cut red tape and fast track the construction of at least 100,000 new homes for people in towns, cities, and Indigenous communities across Canada. It asks for innovative action plans from local governments, and once approved, provides upfront funding to ensure the timely building of new homes, as well as additional funds upon delivering results. Local governments are encouraged to think big and be bold in their approaches, which could include accelerating project timelines, allowing increased housing density, and encouraging affordable housing units.
The Government of Canada is making life more affordable for Canadians – and housing is key to that work. Our plan to double the rate of housing construction over the next decade will help build the housing supply we need. We will continue to work with provincial, territorial, and municipal governments, as well as Indigenous partners, to keep building more homes for Canadians, faster, and make life more affordable.
Quotes
“We need to build more homes, faster. That means working with Mayors that want to cut red tape and help change the way we build homes in this country. It’s what today’s announcement in Brampton is all about. By investing in programs like the Housing Accelerator Fund, we’re building the foundation for a more stable, affordable, and prosperous life for millions of Canadians from coast to coast to coast.”
“Today’s announcement will help fast track over 3,150 permitted units in the next three years and 24,100 homes over the next decade. By working with cities, mayors and all levels of government, we are helping to get more homes built for Canadians at prices they can afford.”
“We're taking bold steps to build more homes faster for the people of Brampton by collaborating with the City to overcome barriers to affordable housing construction. Today's partnership under the Housing Accelerator Fund marks a significant move forward, fast-tracking constructions of new housing units and homes that will support thousands of families in Brampton to find an affordable place to call home. Our commitment is to make life more affordable for Canadians, and housing is at the heart of that mission.”
“The City of Brampton is a committed partner in the solution for more affordable housing for residents. We are thankful for the Government of Canada’s continued partnership and investment in our community, including today’s announcement of $114M through the Housing Accelerator Fund with a goal of creating more than 24,000 homes over the next decade, through the City’s new Official Plan, Housing Strategy and Action Plan, and Municipal Housing Pledge. This growth will be supported sustainably and strategically, focusing on higher-density development near transit corridors to ensure that while we’re meeting the needs of residents, we’re also reducing barriers to the development of housing in key areas of the City further spurring new incentive programs for affordable housing.”
Quick Facts
- With an average annual population growth rate of approximately 4 per cent annually, the City of Brampton is one of the fastest growing municipalities in Canada. Brampton is expected to reach a population of 1 million by 2051, driven by factors such as international and domestic trade, investments in public transit, and its proximity to urban centres like Toronto.
- The Housing Accelerator Fund is a $4 billion initiative from the Government of Canada that will run until 2026-27. It is designed to help cities, towns, and Indigenous governments unlock new housing supply through innovative approaches.
- Recently, the Prime Minister announced similar agreements with London and Vaughan, Ontario. Combined, these agreements will fast track the creation of over 3,900 additional housing units in both cities over the next three years alone, and thousands more units in the years to come.
- The Housing Accelerator Fund is part of Canada’s National Housing Strategy (NHS), an $82+ billion plan that has already committed to the creation and repair of over 400,000 units. Progress on programs and initiatives are updated quarterly at www.placetocallhome.ca. The Housing Funding Initiatives Map shows affordable housing projects that have been developed.
- Since the creation of the NHS, the Government of Canada has committed over $36.82 billion to support the creation of over 113,467 units and the repair of over 126,011 units. These measures prioritize those in greatest need, including seniors, Indigenous Peoples, people experiencing or at risk of homelessness, and women and children fleeing violence.
- Since 2015, the government has helped almost two million Canadians find a place to call home.
Associated Links
- Housing Accelerator Fund
- Housing Accelerator Fund – Building more homes, faster
- Building more homes, faster
- Making housing more affordable for Canadians
- Removing barriers to build more homes, faster in London, Ontario
- Removing barriers to build more homes, faster in Vaughan, Ontario
- National Housing Strategy
October 19, 2023
Ottawa, Canada
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today concluded the Canada-Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Summit in Ottawa. During the Summit, the Prime Minister and Caribbean leaders advanced shared priorities to fight climate change, grow strong economies for the middle class, and strengthen regional security.
Today, during the second day of the Summit, the Prime Minister convened a trade and investment roundtable with CARICOM leaders and Canadian investors to deepen business ties and create new opportunities for workers. The leaders discussed ways to diversify trade and expand investment in key sectors like financial services, resilient infrastructure, clean tech, information and communications technologies, and natural resources management. They also discussed shared work to build sustainable economies that work for everyone, as Caribbean countries continue to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.
To create new opportunities for businesses and workers, the Prime Minister announced that Canada is expanding the Commonwealth Caribbean Countries Tariff program (CCCT), which gives countries in the region duty-free trade access to the Canadian market for the vast majority of goods, to include textiles and apparel. Canada is also helping businesses take advantage of our preferential tariff programs by simplifying rules of origin and shipping documentation requirements. For businesses in Canada and Caribbean workers, the Prime Minister reiterated the Government of Canada’s commitment to implement a new foreign labour program for agriculture and fish processing under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program.
Leaders also discussed their shared commitment to democracy, the rule of law, respect for human rights, and the rules-based international order. Canada will continue to work with Caribbean partners to build a more secure, stable, and prosperous future – including for people in Haiti, Venezuela, and the Middle East.
The ties between Canadian and Caribbean communities, businesses, and people run deep. With progress made at this Summit, and the new Canada-CARICOM Strategic Partnership, Canada and the CARICOM will continue working together to create jobs, fight climate change, and keep people safe.
Quote
“In an uncertain world, it is by working together as friends and partners that we will build economies that work for the middle class, keep our air and water clean, and keep people safe. Over the last two days, as Canada has hosted Caribbean leaders for this Summit, we have done just that. I’m looking forward to everything we can do next to grow and deepen our longstanding partnership.”
Quick Facts
- On the first day of the Canada-CARICOM Summit, the Prime Minister announced new funding initiatives to help address shared priorities on climate change and economic growth, respond to gender-based violence, and build a more secure, stable, and prosperous hemisphere, including in response to the ongoing crises in Haiti.
- On the second day of the Summit, the leaders focused on trade and investment.
- The Prime Minister was accompanied at the Summit by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Chrystia Freeland, the Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental Affairs, Dominic LeBlanc, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mélanie Joly, the Minister of International Development, Ahmed Hussen, the Minister of National Defence, Bill Blair, the Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development, Mary Ng, and the Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Steven Guilbeault.
- Through the Summit, Prime Minister Trudeau has engaged directly with: the Prime Minister of Dominica, Roosevelt Skerrit, current Chair of CARICOM; the Prime Minister of Barbados, Mia Mottley; the President of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, the Prime Minister of Haiti, Ariel Henry; and the Prime Minister of Jamaica, Andrew Holness.
- In 2022, Canada’s two-way merchandise trade with CARICOM countries reached $1.8 billion. In 2021, bilateral trade in services reached $3.9 billion.
- The chairmanship of the Caribbean Development Bank's (CDB) Board of Governors was handed to Canada from Saint Lucia in June 2023.
- The Commonwealth Caribbean Countries Tariff program (CCCT) is a non-reciprocal tariff preference program, established under the 1986 CARIBCAN agreement, that provides 18 Commonwealth Caribbean countries with duty-free trade access to the Canadian market for the vast majority of their goods.
Related Products
- Canada-CARICOM Strategic Partnership
- Prime Minister and Caribbean leaders take next steps to fight climate change, grow strong economies, and strengthen regional security
- Canada to welcome Caribbean leaders to Ottawa to strengthen ties
- Prime Minister Justin Trudeau meets with Prime Minister of Dominica Roosevelt Skerrit
- Prime Minister Justin Trudeau meets with Prime Minister of Haiti Ariel Henry
- Prime Minister Justin Trudeau meets with President of Guyana Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali
- Prime Minister Justin Trudeau meets with Prime Minister of Jamaica Andrew Holness
Associated Links
- Caribbean Community (CARICOM)
- Canada and Latin America and the Caribbean
- Canada and the Sustainable Development Goals
- The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development
- SDG Advocates
October 19, 2023
Ottawa, Ontario
Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with the President of Guyana, Mohamed Irfaan Ali, on the margins of the first ever Canada-Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Summit on Canadian soil.
The Prime Minister and the President underscored the launch of the Canada-CARICOM Strategic Partnership and how it will help build on the already strong, longstanding relationship between Canada and CARICOM members. Prime Minister Trudeau congratulated President Ali on Guyana’s upcoming CARICOM Chairmanship next year and looked forward to advancing the Canada-CARICOM relationship.
The two leaders highlighted their collaboration on shared priorities, such as advancing climate resilience, the inclusion of Indigenous Peoples in building sustainable economies, defending the rules-based international order, and strengthening regional security and stability, particularly as it relates to the restoration of democracy in Venezuela.
Prime Minister Trudeau also reiterated Canada’s commitment to working with CARICOM, the United Nations, and other international partners to re-establish peace and security in Haiti, including by coordinating international security assistance, advancing Haitian-led solutions, and bolstering the Haitian National Police’s capacity and resources.
Prime Minister Trudeau and President Ali looked forward to making progress on shared priorities and remaining in regular contact.
Associated Links
- Canada-Guyana Relations
- Caribbean Community (CARICOM)
- Prime Minister and Caribbean leaders take next steps to fight climate change, grow strong economies, and strengthen regional security
- Canada to welcome Caribbean leaders to Ottawa to strengthen ties
October 19, 2023
Ottawa, Ontario
Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with the Prime Minister of Jamaica, Andrew Holness, on the margins of the first ever Canada-Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Summit on Canadian soil. He was joined by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mélanie Joly, and the Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development, Mary Ng.
The prime ministers underscored the launch of the Canada-CARICOM Strategic Partnership and how it will help build on the already strong, longstanding relationship between Canada and CARICOM members. Prime Minister Holness thanked Prime Minister Trudeau for Canada’s hosting of CARICOM leaders and key stakeholders for the Summit.
The two leaders highlighted their collaboration on shared priorities, such as advancing climate resilience and sustainable ocean management, growing clean energy capacity, building inclusive and sustainable economies, defending the rules-based international order, and strengthening regional security and stability.
Prime Minister Trudeau reiterated Canada’s commitment to working with CARICOM, the United Nations, and other international partners to re-establish peace and security in Haiti, including by coordinating international security assistance, advancing Haitian-led solutions, and bolstering the Haitian National Police’s capacity and resources. He also thanked Jamaica for hosting Canadian training of the Haitian National Police.
Prime Minister Trudeau and Prime Minister Holness looked forward to making progress on shared priorities and remaining in regular contact.
Associated Links
- Canada-Jamaica Relations
- Caribbean Community (CARICOM)
- Prime Minister and Caribbean leaders take next steps to fight climate change, grow strong economies, and strengthen regional security
- Canada to welcome Caribbean leaders to Ottawa to strengthen ties
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau meets with Prime Minister of Haiti Ariel Henry
October 18, 2023
Ottawa, OntarioToday, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with the Prime Minister of Haiti, Ariel Henry, on the margins of the first ever Canada-Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Summit on Canadian soil. He was joined by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mélanie Joly.
Prime Minister Trudeau expressed his concern over the ongoing humanitarian, security, and political crises in Haiti. He reiterated the critical importance of reaching an inclusive political consensus to create the conditions for free and fair elections and the restoration of democratic order in Haiti.
The two leaders agreed that the best way forward in this regard is to utilize the CARICOM political dialogue to discuss an agreement on a transition process, with the aim of a next meeting of stakeholders to be held in late October.
Prime Minister Trudeau and Prime Minister Henry agreed to remain in regular contact.
Associated Links
- Canada-Haiti Relations
- Caribbean Community (CARICOM)
- Prime Minister and Caribbean leaders take next steps to fight climate change, grow strong economies, and strengthen regional security
- Canada to welcome Caribbean leaders to Ottawa to strengthen ties
- Prime Minister Justin Trudeau meets with Prime Minister of Haiti Ariel Henry
- Canada-Dominica relations
- Caribbean Community (CARICOM)
- Prime Minister and Caribbean leaders take next steps to fight climate change, grow strong economies, and strengthen regional security
- Canada to welcome Caribbean leaders to Ottawa to strengthen ties
- Prime Minister advances progress towards a peaceful, healthy future at United Nations General Assembl
- This Canada-CARICOM Summit is the first time a CARICOM Summit has been held outside the Caribbean, a testament to the bond between Canada and the region.
- CARICOM is comprised of Antigua and Barbuda, The Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, Montserrat, Saint Lucia, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago. The overseas territories of Anguilla, Bermuda, the British Virgin Islands, the Cayman Islands, and Turks & Caicos Islands are Associate Members.
- In 2022, Canada’s two-way merchandise trade with CARICOM countries reached $1.8 billion. In 2021, bilateral trade in services reached $3.9 billion.
- During the Summit the Prime Minister will lead three sessions: Climate Change and Climate Resilience / Building Inclusive and Sustainable Economies; Access to Finance and Global Financial Architecture Reform; Regional Security and Haiti.
- Canada is investing in a range of new support for the region including:
- Climate Resilient Debt Clauses in all new sovereign lending, to provide relief to developing countries experiencing climate crises and natural disasters, first announced by the Deputy Prime Minister at the Annual meetings of the IMF and World Bank on October 14, in Marrakech.
- $10 million in partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organization to support resilient food and agriculture systems that provide opportunities for women.
- $4.6 million in partnership with the Justice Education Society to address gender-based violence and protect the rights of women, youth and children in the Eastern Caribbean.
- And $410,500 for a partnership between Canada’s International Development Research Centre and the University of the West Indies for high-quality, locally relevant data to support democratic, inclusive and equitable development in the Caribbean.
- Since 2022, Canada has committed more than $300 million in international assistance to respond to the crisis in Haiti, sanctioned 28 individuals, and provided technical and tactical support to the HNP through the RCMP and the CAF.
- Caribbean Community (CARICOM)
- Canada and Latin America and the Caribbean
- Canada and the Sustainable Development Goals
- This Canada-CARICOM Summit is the first time a CARICOM Summit has been held outside the Caribbean, a testament to the bond between Canada and the region.
- CARICOM is comprised of Antigua and Barbuda, The Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, Montserrat, Saint Lucia, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago. The overseas territories of Anguilla, Bermuda, the British Virgin Islands, the Cayman Islands, and Turks & Caicos Islands are Associate Members.
- In 2022, Canada’s two-way merchandise trade with CARICOM countries reached $1.8 billion. In 2021, bilateral trade in services reached $3.9 billion.
- During the Summit the Prime Minister will lead three sessions: Climate Change and Climate Resilience / Building Inclusive and Sustainable Economies; Access to Finance and Global Financial Architecture Reform; Regional Security and Haiti.
- Canada is investing in a range of new support for the region including:
- Climate Resilient Debt Clauses in all new sovereign lending, to provide relief to developing countries experiencing climate crises and natural disasters, first announced by the Deputy Prime Minister at the Annual meetings of the IMF and World Bank on October 14, in Marrakech.
- $10 million in partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organization to support resilient food and agriculture systems that provide opportunities for women.
- $4.6 million in partnership with the Justice Education Society to address gender-based violence and protect the rights of women, youth and children in the Eastern Caribbean.
- And $410,500 for a partnership between Canada’s International Development Research Centre and the University of the West Indies for high-quality, locally relevant data to support democratic, inclusive and equitable development in the Caribbean.
- Since 2022, Canada has committed more than $300 million in international assistance to respond to the crisis in Haiti, sanctioned 28 individuals, and provided technical and tactical support to the HNP through the RCMP and the CAF.
- Caribbean Community (CARICOM)
- Canada and Latin America and the Caribbean
- Canada and the Sustainable Development Goals
October 18, 2023
Ottawa, Ontario
Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with the Prime Minister of Dominica, Roosevelt Skerrit, on the margins of the first ever Canada-Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Summit on Canadian soil. He was joined by the Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth, Marci Ien.
The prime ministers underscored the importance of the Canada-CARICOM Strategic Partnership in recognizing Canada’s close and longstanding relationship with CARICOM and its members. As the current Chair of CARICOM, Prime Minister Skerrit thanked Prime Minister Trudeau for hosting CARICOM leaders and key stakeholders for the Summit.
The two leaders highlighted their close relationship and shared priorities, such as advancing climate resilience, building inclusive and sustainable economies, defending the rules-based international order, and strengthening regional security and stability.
They also discussed how to maximize the way forward from the Summit including working with CARICOM and other international partners to foster a Haitian-led solution to the crisis in Haiti.
Prime Minister Trudeau and Prime Minister Skerrit looked forward to making progress on shared priorities and agreed to remain in regular contact.
Associated Links
October 18, 2023
Ottawa, Ontario
For generations, Canada and the Caribbean have been bound together by ties of friendship, people, and business. Today, the Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, opened the Canada-Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Summit, “Strategic Partners for a Resilient Future”, hosted in Ottawa. Over the coming two days, leaders will advance shared work on fighting climate change, growing strong economies for the middle class, and strengthening regional security.
During the Summit, the Prime Minister will advance work to fight climate change and grow resilient economies. This includes a planned new commitment of up to $58.5 million in partnership with the Caribbean Development Bank to support renewable energy projects and $6 million through the Caribbean Climate Smart Fund for resilient renewable energy systems.
At the Summit, leaders will also discuss steps to strengthen regional security, including responding to the ongoing crisis in Haiti. To support Haitian-led solutions, Canada will build on previously announced assistance and launch a multi-year training program for the Haitian National Police (HNP) to help tackle gangs, strengthen anti-corruption mechanisms, and support the protection of Haitians afflicted by gang violence. Canada will also allocate $3.4 million of previously approved funds to address firearms violence in Haiti as well as support the HNP armoury and armorers.
To keep people safe across the region, Canada will also invest $3.2 million for the Caribbean Firearms Roadmap to address firearms trafficking and proliferation, and deepen coordination between the Canadian Armed Forces and the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency to provide rapid delivery of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.
The Prime Minister underscored Canada’s commitment to support CARICOM countries on critical health resources. Canada will allocate $18.3 million from Canada’s Global Initiative for Vaccine Equity to strengthen health and immunization systems and improve equitable access to vaccination in Haiti.
The Canada-CARICOM Summit continues tomorrow, when the Prime Minister will host a trade and investment roundtable to bring together leaders and investors on new opportunities for workers and businesses in Canada and the Caribbean.
Quote
“Canada and the Caribbean are longstanding partners, sharing vibrant communities and close ties. Welcoming Caribbean partners to Ottawa for the Canada-CARICOM Summit is another chance to keep strengthening this relationship and continue delivering good jobs, a healthy environment, and a safe future for people in Canada and the Caribbean alike.”
Quick Facts
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Associated Links
October 18, 2023
Ottawa, Ontario
For generations, Canada and the Caribbean have been bound together by ties of friendship, people, and business. Today, the Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, opened the Canada-Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Summit, “Strategic Partners for a Resilient Future”, hosted in Ottawa. Over the coming two days, leaders will advance shared work on fighting climate change, growing strong economies for the middle class, and strengthening regional security.
During the Summit, the Prime Minister will advance work to fight climate change and grow resilient economies. This includes a planned new commitment of up to $58.5 million in partnership with the Caribbean Development Bank to support renewable energy projects and $6 million through the Caribbean Climate Smart Fund for resilient renewable energy systems.
At the Summit, leaders will also discuss steps to strengthen regional security, including responding to the ongoing crisis in Haiti. To support Haitian-led solutions, Canada will build on previously announced assistance and launch a multi-year training program for the Haitian National Police (HNP) to help tackle gangs, strengthen anti-corruption mechanisms, and support the protection of Haitians afflicted by gang violence. Canada will also allocate $3.4 million of previously approved funds to address firearms violence in Haiti as well as support the HNP armoury and armorers.
To keep people safe across the region, Canada will also invest $3.2 million for the Caribbean Firearms Roadmap to address firearms trafficking and proliferation, and deepen coordination between the Canadian Armed Forces and the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency to provide rapid delivery of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.
The Prime Minister underscored Canada’s commitment to support CARICOM countries on critical health resources. Canada will allocate $18.3 million from Canada’s Global Initiative for Vaccine Equity to strengthen health and immunization systems and improve equitable access to vaccination in Haiti.
The Canada-CARICOM Summit continues tomorrow, when the Prime Minister will host a trade and investment roundtable to bring together leaders and investors on new opportunities for workers and businesses in Canada and the Caribbean.
Quote
“Canada and the Caribbean are longstanding partners, sharing vibrant communities and close ties. Welcoming Caribbean partners to Ottawa for the Canada-CARICOM Summit is another chance to keep strengthening this relationship and continue delivering good jobs, a healthy environment, and a safe future for people in Canada and the Caribbean alike.”
Quick Facts
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Associated Links
October 17, 2023
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty:
“Today, on the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, we recommit ourselves to building a world where everyone, no matter who they are or where they come from, has every opportunity to succeed.
“Our approach to put people at the centre of everything we do is working. Since 2015, we have cut the poverty rate in half in Canada. We have lifted more than two million Canadians out of poverty – including more than 650,000 children. Today, there are over a million more Canadians working than there were at the beginning of the pandemic – and that’s good news.
“In the face of global inflation, the Government of Canada is working to make life more affordable for people, including by stabilizing the cost of groceries and building more homes. With support like the Canada Child Benefit, which provides up to $7,437 per child this year alone, we have made a real change in people’s lives. We are also working to deliver $10-a-day child care right across the country in the coming years, getting kids the dental care they need now, and permanently increasing Old Age Security for seniors 75 and over by more than $800 a year.
“The eradication of poverty in all its forms is the very first of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) – a pathway for Canada and the world to achieve a better, equal future. Canada remains unwavering in its commitment to achieving the SDGs, and we will continue to work with our domestic and international partners, including through our Feminist International Assistance Policy, to make them a reality.
“On behalf of the Government of Canada, I reaffirm our commitment to building a future where no one gets left behind, and I recognize all those working alongside us to achieve this goal. By working together, we will end poverty and create a more prosperous world for all.”
October 16, 2023
Ottawa, Ontario
Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke with the Emir of Qatar, His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, about the situation in the Middle East.
The Prime Minister unequivocally condemned Hamas’ multi-front terrorist attack against Israel. He reiterated Canada’s support for the right of Israelis and Palestinians to live in peace and security, and for a two-state solution.
The two leaders discussed the regional implications of developments since October 7, and the need to avoid escalation in the region. They discussed ongoing efforts to de-escalate and prevent further loss of civilian life. They exchanged views on the worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza and discussed ongoing initiatives to help address the situation.
Prime Minister Trudeau underscored Canada’s call for unimpeded humanitarian access and a humanitarian corridor, so that essential aid like food, fuel, and water can be delivered to civilians in Gaza. He emphasized Canada’s ongoing work with its allies and international partners to help people leave Gaza, the West Bank, and Israel as safely and quickly as possible, and reiterated that Canada has announced an initial $10 million for humanitarian support and protection assistance to those affected by the crisis. The Prime Minister stressed that in Gaza, as elsewhere, international law, including humanitarian law, must be upheld by all.
The two leaders reaffirmed their intention to remain in close and regular contact.
Associated Links
- Canada-Qatar relations
- Canada’s response to the crisis in Israel, the West Bank and the Gaza Strip
- Statement by the Prime Minister on the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip
- Government of Canada helping Canadians affected by crisis in Israel, West Bank and Gaza Strip
- Prime Minister Trudeau convenes the Incident Response Group to discuss Hamas’ attacks against Israel and the assisted departures of Canadian citizens
October 15, 2023
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on Small Business Week, which runs from October 15 to 21, 2023:
“Today, we mark the beginning of Small Business Week, an opportunity to recognize the more than one million small and medium-sized businesses across Canada that are the backbone of our economy.
“Small businesses account for 98 per cent of all businesses in Canada. They are the lifeblood of our communities, play an essential role in delivering the goods and services Canadians need, and support millions of good middle-class jobs from coast to coast to coast. In recent years, in the face of unexpected challenges ranging from the pandemic to the impacts of climate change and global inflation, they have shown incredible resilience and ingenuity, learning to innovate and adapt to continue to thrive. And the Government of Canada has been there to support them every step of the way.
“In today’s rapidly evolving global business environment, we continue to listen to Canadian entrepreneurs and small business owners to ensure they receive the support they need. Earlier this year, we secured commitments from major credit card companies to lower transaction fees for small businesses, helping eligible small businesses in Canada save an expected $1 billion over five years. This builds on other measures we have taken to support hardworking business owners, including by helping them access financing through the Canada Small Business Financing Program, and extending the deadline on pandemic loans through the Canada Emergency Business Account, while making them more flexible. We will continue to be there for small business owners so they can keep putting their dreams into action and grow our local economies.
“To Canada’s small business owners: thank you for your contributions and your dedication to serving our communities. This week, I invite Canadians to shop local – whether by grabbing a coffee from your favourite coffee shop, stopping by a new boutique, or getting your food for the week at your local independent grocery store. When we support the small businesses in our communities, we contribute to a stronger Canadian economy for the middle class and people working hard to join it.”
October 16, 2023
Ottawa, Ontario
In the wake of Hamas’ large-scale terrorist attacks against Israel, the world was again reminded that antisemitism is not a relic of the past – it is a daily reality experienced by Jewish communities here in Canada and around the world. Antisemitism is not a problem for the Jewish community to confront alone. We all have an obligation to continue to speak up against it wherever and whenever it occurs.
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced the appointment of Deborah Lyons as Canada’s new Special Envoy on Preserving Holocaust Remembrance and Combatting Antisemitism. Ms. Lyons will serve for a term of two years.
A respected diplomat with 25 years of experience in international relations, political affairs, security management, and development, Ms. Lyons previously served as Ambassador of Canada to Israel. She is a firm ally to the Jewish community and has a strong history of working with community organizations. Most recently, she supported peace and stabilization efforts in Afghanistan as Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan.
As Canada’s Special Envoy, Ms. Lyons will lead efforts to combat antisemitism and preserve Holocaust remembrance here at home and around the world. She will serve as the head of Canada’s delegation to the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) and will work with domestic and international partners to strengthen and promote Holocaust education, remembrance, and research worldwide, while continuing to implement our pledges from the Malmö International Forum on Holocaust Remembrance and Combatting Antisemitism.
The Prime Minister thanked the Honourable Irwin Cotler for his tireless contributions and leadership as Canada’s first Special Envoy on Preserving Holocaust Remembrance and Combatting Antisemitism, from 2020 to 2023. Mr. Cotler played a critical role in working to ensure the painful lessons of the Holocaust and the memories of those who lived through it are never forgotten. His leadership through a period of rising antisemitism, including co-chairing the National Summit on Antisemitism, will have a lasting impact on the government’s efforts to combat hate, however it may surface.
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“Today, in the aftermath of the horrific attacks against Israel, we reiterate to Jewish communities across Canada that we are standing with them. Ms. Lyons will be a critical voice in fighting antisemitism and preserving the memory of the Holocaust so that younger generations know the truth about what happened – and how antisemitism continues today. We all must confront antisemitism, hatred, and intolerance in all its forms so we can build a better, safer future for everyone.”
“Antisemitism is a daily reality for too many people from Jewish communities in Canada and around the world. The agonizing grief caused by the Hamas attacks on Israelis earlier this month must propel us to move forward together to combat antisemitism. I am proud to accept this role and responsibility, and I am committed to working with all levels of government, institutions, and stakeholders to promote Holocaust awareness and combat antisemitism here in Canada and abroad. By learning from our past, I believe that we can and will build a more just and inclusive future for all.”
Quick Facts
- The Holocaust was an unprecedented genocide perpetrated by the Nazi regime with the aim of annihilating all Jewish people. During the Holocaust, more than six million Jews – or approximately two thirds of Europe’s Jewish population – were murdered. In total, 11 million people were brutally killed by the Nazi regime, including through the genocide of Roma and Sinti populations, and the persecution of ethnic Poles, Soviet citizens, LGBTQI+ persons, people with disabilities, and political and religious dissidents.
- The position of Special Envoy on Preserving Holocaust Remembrance and Combatting Antisemitism was created in 2020, as part of the federal government’s commitment to reinforce national and international efforts to preserve the memory of the Holocaust and the stories of survivors; combat antisemitism, hatred, and racism; and promote and defend democracy, pluralism, inclusion, and human rights.
- The Special Envoy works with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Minister of Canadian Heritage, the Minister of Diversity, Inclusion and Persons with Disabilities, and other implicated ministers and elected officials across all levels of government to inform and advance Government of Canada policy and programming.
- The IHRA is an intergovernmental organization dedicated to strengthening, advancing, and promoting Holocaust education, research, and remembrance. It includes 35 member countries, 10 observer countries, and eight partner organizations focusing on Holocaust‑related issues.
- Canada joined the IHRA in 2009, and adopted the IHRA’s definition of antisemitism in 2019, as part of Canada’s Anti-Racism Strategy. The definition serves as the foundation of the federal government’s engagement with Jewish communities and its work to tackle antisemitism. Strengthening the definition’s implementation is a core component of the Special Envoy’s mandate.
- Since 2019, the Government of Canada has committed close to $100 million through its Anti-Racism Strategy, including $70 million to support community organizations addressing issues of anti-racism and multiculturalism across the country.
- In 2022, the Government of Canada provided new funding to advance Holocaust education and combat antisemitism across the country, including by supporting the creation of new Holocaust museums in Montréal and Toronto, as well as a new home for the Vancouver Holocaust Education Centre.
- Canada doubled its annual contribution to the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance last year. We continue to promote the Alliance and its working definition of antisemitism, an important tool used in efforts to combat antisemitic attitudes and behaviours – including Holocaust denial and distortion – both at home and abroad.
- Budget 2023 proposes to provide $49.5 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, to Public Safety Canada to enhance and expand the Communities at Risk: Security Infrastructure Program and allow it to be more responsive to the evolving security needs of communities.
