Prime Minister Justin Trudeau meets with President of Poland Andrzej Duda
.jpg)
February 26, 2024
Warsaw, Poland
Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with the President of Poland, Andrzej Duda, in Warsaw, Poland.
As Russia’s unjustifiable war of aggression against Ukraine passes its two-year mark, Prime Minister Trudeau and President Duda reaffirmed their unwavering support for Ukraine and their commitment to stand with Ukraine.
The Prime Minister and the President emphasized the close co-operation between Canada and Poland in the training of Ukrainian Armed Forces personnel, including Poland’s hosting of members of the Canadian Armed Forces under Operation UNIFIER. They also discussed co-operation on renewable and clean energy, particularly in the nuclear sector.
The two leaders reiterated their shared commitment to bolster the defence and deterrence capabilities of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) along its eastern flank. The Prime Minister expressed appreciation for Poland’s ongoing contribution to the Canada-led NATO enhanced Forward Presence in Latvia. The leaders discussed future opportunities to work together to continue supporting Ukraine, bolstering regional security, strengthening the NATO Alliance, and holding Russia to account for its illegal war of aggression.
Prime Minister Trudeau and President Duda agreed to remain in regular contact.
Associated Links
- Canada-Poland relations
- Prime Minister visits Kyiv and announces additional support for Ukraine
- G7 Leaders’ Statement
- Statement by the Prime Minister marking two years since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine
- Canada’s response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine
- Operation UNIFIER
February 26, 2024
Warsaw, Poland
Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with the Prime Minister of Poland, Donald Tusk, in Warsaw, Poland.
As Putin’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine enters its third year, Prime Minister Trudeau and Prime Minister Tusk condemned Russia’s ongoing war of aggression, and reaffirmed their shared commitment to supporting the people of Ukraine. They further expressed their support for President Zelenskyy’s ongoing diplomatic efforts toward a just and sustainable peace.
The prime ministers committed to working together to tackle regional and global challenges, such as regional stability, energy security, and climate change. Prime Minister Trudeau welcomed ongoing close co-operation with Poland in addressing security challenges, including through collaboration in the training of Ukrainian Armed Forces personnel and Poland’s contributions to the Canada-led North Atlantic Treaty Organization enhanced Forward Presence in Latvia.
The two leaders looked forward to working together to further deepen bilateral relations, including through enhanced trade and collaboration in the areas of science, technology and innovation, as well as in the nuclear sector. In particular, they looked forward to the signature and ratification of the Canada-Poland Nuclear Cooperation Agreement.
Prime Minister Trudeau and Prime Minister Tusk reaffirmed their intention to remain in close and regular contact.
Associated Links
- Canada-Poland relations
- Prime Minister visits Kyiv and announces additional support for Ukraine
- G7 Leaders’ Statement
- Statement by the Prime Minister marking two years since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine
- Canada’s response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine
February 24, 2024
Kyiv, Ukraine
We the Leaders of the Group of Seven (G7) met today with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to reaffirm our unwavering support for Ukraine and salute once more the bravery and resilience of the Ukrainian people, who have been fighting tirelessly for Ukraine’s freedom and democratic future.
They have resisted for two years Russia’s illegal, unjustifiable, and unprovoked full-scale invasion, which constitutes a blatant violation of the UN Charter. They have proven their will to defeat President Putin’s war machine, restore their nation’s territorial integrity, and defend Ukraine’s sovereignty and independence.
President Putin has failed to achieve his strategic objective of subjugating Ukraine. Instead, he is forcing his own people to pay a heavy price for his government’s reckless actions each day. He has drained Russia’s resources to fund an unnecessary war, torn Russian families apart, and claimed hundreds of thousands of Russian lives.
We remain convinced that we can ensure the people of Ukraine prevail in fighting for their future and help to forge a comprehensive, just and durable peace.
On this occasion, we also pay tribute to the extraordinary courage of Alexei Navalny and stand with his wife, children, and loved ones. He sacrificed his life fighting against the Kremlin’s corruption and for free and fair elections in Russia. We call on the Russian government to fully clarify the circumstances around his death. We equally call on the Russian government to free all unjustly detained prisoners, and to stop the persecution of political opposition and the systematic repression of Russians’ rights and freedoms. We will hold those culpable for Navalny’s death accountable, including by continuing to impose restrictive measures in response to human rights violations and abuses in Russia and taking other actions.
1. We will continue to support Ukraine’s right to self-defence and reiterate our commitment to Ukraine’s long-term security, including by concluding and implementing bilateral security commitments and arrangements, based on the Joint Declaration of Support for Ukraine we endorsed in Vilnius last July. We are stepping up our security assistance to Ukraine and are increasing our production and delivery capabilities, to assist the country.
Ten years after the Maidan protests, we stand with the Ukrainian government and people as they buttress the foundations of their democratic state through vital reforms, especially to reinforce their justice system and rule of law, and tackle corruption. These endeavours are part of Ukraine’s path to Euro-Atlantic integration. We praise Ukraine’s achievements to date and welcome the European Council’s decision last December to open accession negotiations with Ukraine. We welcome Ukraine’s progress towards meeting the IMF Extended Fund Facility programme’s conditionality.
Russia must not succeed in wrecking Ukraine’s economy to make up for its failures on the battlefield. We will help Ukraine meet its urgent financing needs, and assist other vulnerable countries severely affected by the impacts of Russia’s war. We strongly welcome the EU’s approval of the Ukraine Facility of EUR 50 billion. It will provide crucial financial support to Ukraine until 2027. We also welcome additional economic support others have approved as we seek to close Ukraine’s remaining financing gap, as well as Japan’s swift delivery of its budget support in the first quarter of 2024, and Canada’s new funding. We urge the approval of additional support to close Ukraine’s remaining budget gap for 2024.
Ukraine’s reconstruction, starting with early recovery measures, remains a key priority. We will continue to work, with the Ukrainian authorities and International Financial Institutions through the Multi-agency Donor Coordination Platform for Ukraine, and by leveraging private investments. We welcome the Platform’s expansion to include the Republic of Korea, Norway, Sweden, and the Netherlands. Further to the successful Japan-Ukraine Conference for Promotion of Economic Growth and Reconstruction, we look forward to the Ukraine Recovery Conferences, to be hosted in Berlin in 2024 and in Rome in 2025.
2. We call on Russia to immediately cease its war of aggression and completely and unconditionally withdraw its military forces from the internationally recognized territory of Ukraine. We call on all countries to uphold international law and in no way validate or condone Russia’s attempts to acquire territory by force. We will never recognize so-called “elections”, past and future, held by Russia in the territories of Ukraine, nor their results. Russia’s stated intention to hold votes for its presidential elections in Ukrainian regions is an outrageous violation of Ukraine’s sovereignty.
We strongly condemn Russia’s continuous brutal attacks on civilians and critical civil infrastructure, and war crimes committed by Russian forces in Ukraine, including sexual violence. We strongly condemn Russia’s human rights violations in the territories Russia occupies. We remain committed to holding those responsible accountable for their atrocities against the people of Ukraine, in line with international law. We support investigations by the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court, the Prosecutor General of Ukraine, and other national prosecutors within their jurisdictions. We welcome ongoing discussions in the Core Group, exploring the establishment of a tribunal for the crime of aggression against Ukraine. We call on Russia to release all persons it has unlawfully detained and to safely return all civilians it has illegally transferred or deported, starting with thousands of children. We welcome the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children, launched by Ukraine and Canada. We also stress the importance of advancing towards an exchange of all prisoners of war, and welcome efforts in this regard by other partner countries and actors. Finally, we will continue to support Ukrainian displaced persons and refugees, and protect those in need. We reiterate our support for the Council of Europe Register of Damage for Ukraine.
As Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine continues to undermine global food security, we celebrate Ukraine’s success in significantly expanding food exports through the Black Sea, which will help feed the world. Thanks to Ukraine’s maritime corridor and the EU’s solidarity lanes, Ukraine is on track to export all grain from its 2023 harvest despite Russia’s attacks on Ukrainian ports and its withdrawal from the Black Sea Grain Initiative. We will continue to help Ukraine export its grain and agricultural products to the most vulnerable nations, including through the implementation of the Grain Verification Scheme that Ukraine will lead this year. We call on Russia to cease its efforts to weaponize food supply and support safe commercial navigation of the Black Sea.
Russia’s irresponsible nuclear rhetoric, its posture of strategic intimidation, and its undermining of arms control regimes are unacceptable. Threats by Russia of nuclear weapon use, let alone any use of nuclear weapons by Russia, in the context of its war of aggression against Ukraine are inadmissible.
3. We will continue to raise the cost of Russia’s war, degrade Russia’s sources of revenue, and impede its efforts to build its war machine, as demonstrated by our recently approved sanctions packages. We remain committed to fully implementing and enforcing our sanctions on Russia, and adopting new measures as necessary. We continue to counter, in close cooperation with third countries, any attempts to evade and circumvent our sanctions and export control measures. We will impose additional sanctions on companies and individuals in third countries who help Russia acquire weapons or key inputs for weapons. We will also impose sanctions on those who help Russia acquire tools and other equipment that aid Russian weapons production or military-industrial development.
We will continue to apply significant pressure on Russian revenues from energy and other commodities. We will continue to take steps to tighten compliance and enforcement of the oil price cap. While working to maintain supply stability, we will respond to price cap violations, including by imposing additional sanctions measures on those engaged in deceptive practices while transporting Russian oil, and against the networks Russia has developed to extract additional revenue from price cap violations. We will continue taking steps to limit Russia’s future energy revenues. We will continue to impede Russia’s development of future energy projects, and disrupt its development of alternatives for energy shipping and other services. We will continue efforts to reduce Russia’s revenues from metals.
We will continue to take action against third-country actors who materially support Russia’s war, including by imposing additional measures on entities, where appropriate, in third countries. We call on financial institutions to refrain from supporting Russia’s war machine and we will take appropriate steps, consistent with our legal systems, to deter this behaviour. Financial institutions and other entities that facilitate Russia’s acquisition of items or equipment for its defence industrial base are supporting actions that undermine the territorial integrity, sovereignty, and independence of Ukraine. We strongly condemn North Korea’s exports and Russia’s procurement of North Korea’s ballistic missiles in direct violation of relevant United Nations Security Council Resolutions, and call upon them to immediately cease such activities. We call upon Iran to stop assisting the Russian military and its war in Ukraine. We express our concern about transfers to Russia from businesses in the People’s Republic of China of dual-use materials and components for weapons, and equipment for military production.
It is not right for Russia to decide if or when it will pay for the damage it has caused in Ukraine. These damages now exceed US$486 billion, according to the World Bank. Russia’s obligations under international law to pay for the damage it is causing are clear. We are determined to dispel any false notion that time is on Russia’s side, that destroying infrastructure and livelihoods has no consequences for Russia, or that Russia could prevail by causing Ukraine to fail economically. Russia should not be able to indefinitely delay payment it owes.
We recognize the urgency of disrupting Russia’s attempts to destroy the Ukrainian economy and Russia’s continued failure to abide by its international law obligations. We are determined to ensure full accountability and we support Ukraine in obtaining compensation for the loss, injury and damage resulting from Russia’s aggression.
We reaffirm that, consistent with our respective legal systems, Russia’s sovereign assets in our jurisdictions will remain immobilized until Russia pays for the damage it caused to Ukraine. We welcome the adoption of the EU legal acts concerning extraordinary revenues of central securities depositories gained from Russia’s immobilized sovereign assets, and encourage further steps to enable their use, consistent with applicable contractual obligations and in accordance with applicable laws. We ask our ministers to continue their work and update ahead of the Apulia Summit on all possible avenues, by which immobilized Russian sovereign assets could be made use of to support Ukraine, consistent with our respective legal systems and international law.
4. As we move forward, we continue our support to Ukraine in further developing President Zelenskyy’s Peace Formula, and commit ourselves to supporting a comprehensive, just and lasting peace consistent with the principles of the UN Charter, international law, and respectful of Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. As Ukraine enters the third year of this relentless war, its government and its people can count on the G7’s support for as long as it takes.
February 24, 2024
Kyiv, Ukraine
Two years ago today, Vladimir Putin launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine and with it, unleashed an attack on democracy, freedom, and the rules-based international order. Despite Russia’s relentless assault, Ukrainians are standing strong, and Canada will stand with them, for as long as it takes.
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, is visiting Ukraine today, alongside international partners, to reaffirm Canada’s ongoing and unwavering support for Ukraine.
As part of this visit, Prime Minister Trudeau and the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, held a bilateral meeting to discuss the situation on the ground and Ukraine’s needs over the coming months. The two leaders signed a new, historic agreement on security cooperation between Canada and Ukraine to establish a strategic security partnership.
The agreement builds on the G7 Joint Declaration of Support for Ukraine, and outlines key, long-term security commitments for Canada to continue supporting Ukraine as it defends its sovereignty and territorial integrity, protects its people, and rebuilds its economy for the future. As part of this commitment, Canada will provide $3.02 billion in critical financial and military support to Ukraine in 2024.
In addition, the Prime Minister announced new support for Ukraine’s resilience and recovery efforts. This includes:
- $75 million in peace and security assistance, which includes demining, cyber support, and intelligence support.
- $15 million in preservation assistance, specifically supporting the completion of the National Museum of the Holodomor-Genocide in Kyiv, helping preserve the memory of victims and survivors of the Holodomor, a systemic and heinous campaign of deliberate starvation by the Soviet regime that killed millions across Ukraine in 1932 and 1933.
The Prime Minister also announced the allocation of funding to the following:
- Up to $39 million in development assistance, to provide access to essential mental health services for vulnerable populations, help build food systems that are more resilient, and support efforts by local communities toward reconstruction and recovery.
- Over $22 million in humanitarian assistance, to support trusted United Nations and Red Cross partners in delivering critical assistance, including emergency health interventions, protection services, shelter, water, sanitation, and food, as well as the promotion of respect for international humanitarian law.
- Over $18 million in peace, security, and stabilization assistance, to support projects ranging from demining, to reducing threats from nuclear or radiological materials and chemical weapons, to countering disinformation.
While in Ukraine, Prime Minister Trudeau joined President Zelenskyy, the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, the Prime Minister of Italy, Giorgia Meloni, and the Prime Minister of Belgium, Alexander De Croo, to visit Hostomel Airport and the Wall of Remembrance of the Fallen for Ukraine, where they paid tribute to the countless brave Ukrainians who have been killed, injured, or displaced since the start of Russia’s war of aggression.
This day serves as a reminder of what Ukraine is fighting for – the values of peace, justice, and democracy. To the civilians-turned-soldiers fighting to protect their homeland, the volunteers providing care to those injured, and all Ukrainians who remain defiant in the face of Russia’s attacks, know that Canada is with you. We will continue to work closely with our Allies and international partners to support Ukraine and Ukrainians as they continue to fight for their freedom, for their independence, and for democracy.
Quotes
“When Putin ordered his tanks across the Ukrainian border, he thought Kyiv would fall; that President Zelenskyy would cave; that the free world would stand by. Two years on, Ukrainians are resolute as they defend democracy, freedom, and their identity – and Canada’s support is unwavering. Today, standing shoulder to shoulder with our Allies and partners, Canada committed to further assistance, including military and humanitarian support, for Ukraine. We will stand with Ukraine with whatever it takes, for as long as it takes. Slava Ukraini!”
“As the brave people of Ukraine continue their heroic resistance against Putin’s illegal and barbaric invasion, after two long years of brutal fighting, Canada is unwavering in our support for Ukraine. Today we stand united and say to the people of Ukraine: We will keep the faith. We will never abandon you. Our determination is absolute. Slava Ukraini!”
“On the second anniversary of Russia’s illegal, full-scale invasion of Ukraine, we salute the exemplary courage and strength of the people of Ukraine. Canada will always stand with them in their fight for freedom. Today’s agreement demonstrates Canada’s commitment to providing Ukraine with the assistance that it needs to fight against Russian aggression and win. Ukraine’s fight is our fight too, and we will be there for Ukrainians until they win this war.”
Quick Facts
- This is Prime Minister Trudeau’s third visit to Ukraine since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion on February 24, 2022. The Prime Minister was accompanied for this visit by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Chrystia Freeland, and the Minister of National Defence, Bill Blair.
- In Ukraine, the Prime Minister met bilaterally and multilaterally with:
- The President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy
- The President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen
- The Prime Minister of Italy, Giorgia Meloni
- The Prime Minister of Belgium, Alexander De Croo
- The measures announced today build on other recent announcements, including:
- New sanctions targeting over 160 individuals and entities that are part of Russia’s military-industrial sector and have helped facilitate sanctions evasion.
- Enacting groundbreaking legislation that enables the assets of sanctioned individuals and individuals to be seized, for the benefit of Ukraine.
- Working with G7 allies to ensure that Russian central banks assets remain frozen in our jurisdictions until Russia compensates Ukraine for the damage it has caused.
- Contributions of $60 million to the Ukraine Defense Contact Group Air Force Capability Coalition to support the setup of a sustainable F-16 fighter aircraft capability in Ukraine and over $273 million in new equipment for Canadian Armed Forces personnel in Latvia, where Canada leads the North Atlantic Treaty Organization’s enhanced Forward Presence Battle Group.
- Canada’s co-chairing, with Ukraine, of the new International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children, which coordinates international efforts to bring Ukrainian children – who were unlawfully deported or forcibly transferred by Russia – home to their families and communities.
- An investment of over $475,000 to support Pro Bono Ontario’s Ukrainian Refugee Legal Relief Initiative, which assists Ukrainian nationals seeking refuge in Canada as a result of Russia’s armed invasion of Ukraine.
- Since the beginning of 2022, Canada has committed over $13.3 billion in funding to support Ukraine. This includes:
- $4 billion in military assistance, such as M777 howitzers, Leopard 2 main battle tanks, armoured combat support vehicles, hundreds of thousands of rounds of ammunition, high-resolution drone cameras, thermal clothing, body armour, fuel, and more.
- $7.4 billion in financial support.
- $352.5 million in humanitarian assistance, including support for emergency health interventions, protection services, and essentials such as shelter, water, sanitation, and food. Programming also addresses child protection, mental health support, and prevention and response to sexual and gender-based violence.
- $186 million in development assistance, such as $15 million from Canada’s $100 million contribution to the Canada-International Finance Corporation Facility for Resilient Food Systems.
- $198 million in security and stabilization assistance.
- Canadian Armed Forces members are supporting the Armed Forces of Ukraine in the United Kingdom and Poland under Operation UNIFIER, providing training on a range of military skills. Between 2015 and 2024, Canada trained more than 40,000 members of the Armed Forces of Ukraine as part of this operation. They have also been assisting with the delivery of military aid for Ukraine from Canada and on behalf of our Allies and partners.
- Since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Canada has welcomed more than 220,000 Ukrainians. We are helping Ukrainian families find a safe, temporary home and have put support services in place for their arrival. This includes temporary financial assistance and access to federally funded settlement services, such as language training and employment-related services.
- Canada and Ukraine have long been steadfast partners and close friends. In 1991, Canada became the first Western country to recognize Ukraine’s independence. Today, 1.3 million people of Ukrainian descent call Canada home – the largest Ukrainian diaspora in the Western world. In 2022, total bilateral trade between our two countries was valued at over $421 million.
Related Products
- Backgrounder: Canada announces additional support for Ukraine
- Agreement on Security Cooperation between Canada and Ukraine
- Statement by the Prime Minister marking two years since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine
Associated Links
- Canada-Ukraine relations
- Canada’s response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine
- Sanctions – Russian invasion of Ukraine
- Canadian sanctions related to Russia
- Canadian donations and military support to Ukraine
February 23, 2024
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement marking two years since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine:
“In the coming hours, we will mark two years since Vladimir Putin launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, escalating his war of aggression. In doing so, he unleashed unspeakable violence and brutality that has left hundreds of thousands dead and forced millions to flee. Putin’s invasion is not only a violation of Ukraine’s sovereignty and independence, but also of the basic principles of the rules-based international order; an assault on our common humanity; and an attack against freedom, democracy, and peace.
“When Putin ordered his tanks across the Ukrainian border in 2022, he thought the world would stand by. He expected Kyiv would quickly fall. He believed the people of Ukraine would surrender. But his imperial delusions have been met with a fierce defence – and the Ukrainian flag still flies over Kyiv.
“Despite Russia’s unrelenting attacks, Ukraine continues to demonstrate unwavering courage. Ukrainians are fighting for their communities, their land, their identity, and their heritage. But they are also fighting for our collective future. They are fighting to remind the world that democracy is both important enough to die for and strong enough to win.
“As the war continues, that is what is at stake. And that is why Canada has stood with Ukraine since day one. Since 2022, we have committed over $9.7 billion to Ukraine, including $2.4 billion in military aid. We stepped up with Howitzers, Leopard 2 tanks, hundreds of thousands of rounds of ammunition, thermal clothing, body armour, and fuel. Under Operation UNIFIER, Canada has trained over 40,000 Ukrainian troops. Through billions in loans and hundreds of millions of dollars in humanitarian and development assistance, we are helping Ukraine rebuild and recover.
“Along with our international partners, we’ve imposed sweeping sanctions on the Russian regime and its enablers. Earlier today, we announced additional sanctions on Russia, including on 10 individuals and 153 entities, targeting Russia’s oligarchs and its war chest. This brings the total to over 2,400 sanctions since February 2022. We are also working with our international partners to secure long-term security commitments for Ukraine and ensure the safe return of Ukrainian children abducted by Russia.
“The friendship between Canada and Ukraine runs deep. Ukrainian immigrants arrived on our shores in 1891 and have since become an integral part of Canada’s social fabric. They’ve helped build the Canada we know and love. Today, Canada is proudly home to 1.3 million people of Ukrainian descent. Abandoning Ukraine in its time of need wouldn’t just be abandoning Ukrainians on the frontlines fighting for democracy, but also abandoning the culture and identity of Ukrainian Canadians here at home.
“If we fail to stop Russia’s advances, if we allow one despot’s invasion to embolden countless more aggressors, and if we allow Putin to redraw the map as he pleases, the world will look much different and much worse.
“This day serves as a reminder of what Ukraine is fighting for – the values of freedom, justice, and democracy. Canada’s support for Ukraine is unwavering and unequivocal. We will defend a future for Ukraine that’s written by Ukrainians. We will defend a Ukraine that stands strong and free. And we will be with Ukraine in this courageous fight for as long as it takes.
“Slava Ukraini.”
February 22, 2024
Cape Breton / Unama’ki, Nova Scotia
Right now, in communities across the country, building 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 – whether they are just starting out, growing their families, or aging in security – 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 agreements with the Cape Breton Regional Municipality and Membertou First Nation in Nova Scotia to fast-track 367 new housing units over the next three years. This work will help spur the construction of more than 3,286 homes over the next decade and help meet the demand in the region.
Under the Housing Accelerator Fund, these agreements will provide a total of $13.3 million to eliminate barriers to building the housing we need, faster. The first agreement, with the Cape Breton Regional Municipality, will create more housing options in the region, including allowing six units as-of-right in serviceable areas, and using pre-approved building plans to fast-track construction, from apartments to six-plexes. The municipality will also focus on building more affordable units and cut construction time and costs by providing financial incentives to builders. In addition, they will build more homes near transit and reduce parking requirements, removing barriers and helping make housing as accessible as possible. Together, these initiatives are going to improve the way affordable housing is built and delivered in the Cape Breton region.
Stable, reliable, and affordable housing is also a fundamental part of our commitment to responding to the needs of Indigenous partners and advancing reconciliation. That is why, under the second agreement, Membertou First Nation will receive more than $1.9 million to support new housing and infrastructure upgrades. The funding will allow Membertou First Nation to recruit housing administration staff and construction managers so that projects get off the ground quicker. The funds will also help complete critical infrastructure work in the community, including improving access to bridges, water, and sewer services.
The Housing Accelerator Fund is helping cut red tape and fast-track the construction of over 600,000 new homes for people in towns, cities, and Indigenous communities across Canada over the next decade. 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 supporting the middle class – 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 are working with provincial, territorial, and municipal governments, as well as Indigenous partners, to build more homes for Canadians, faster, and make life better for everyone.
Quotes
“The status quo on home building in this country isn’t working. We need to build more homes and make sure they’re affordable – and we need to do it faster. That’s what today’s announcement in Cape Breton and Membertou First Nation is all about. Let’s get homes built at prices Canadians can afford.”
“We are excited and proud to announce these partnerships with the Cape Breton Regional Municipality and Membertou First Nation today. The funding will help Membertou First Nation scale up operations to build more homes and improve critical infrastructure within the community. And by speeding up permitting, making more municipal lands available to build homes, and paving the way for more affordable ones, the Cape Breton Regional Municipality is working to ensure that it has the tools needed to help tackle the housing crisis. We will continue working with cities, towns, mayors, Indigenous partners, and all levels of government to get more homes built for Canadians at prices they can afford.”
— The Hon. Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities
“Today marks an investment that will have an immediate impact on housing options across the Cape Breton Regional Municipality. We are grateful for the partnership and support provided by the Government of Canada throughout the Housing Accelerator Fund process. This has resulted in the creation of a Cape Breton Regional Municipality Work Plan that will provide grants for affordable housing projects, an inventory of permitted housing plans, dedicated in-house expertise, and a plan for steady housing growth into the future.”
“The Housing Accelerator Fund will enable Membertou to build 28 new homes in our community. Thanks to this invaluable program, we will continue our pursuit to provide secure, affordable housing for our people.”
Quick Facts
- As part of its Housing Accelerator Fund agreement, the Cape Breton Regional Municipality will work to streamline the municipal permitting process. This includes the development and implementation of an electronic permitting platform that will streamline construction application processes while reducing paperwork and processing times. The agreement will also proactively tackle climate change and floodplain risks, developing strategies for the effective implementation of relocation and property purchases.
- 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 and fast-track at least 100,000 permitted new homes over the first three years.
- With today’s announcement, the Government of Canada has signed 52 agreements since the launch of the Housing Accelerator Fund. Combined, these agreements will fast-track an estimated total of over 600,000 housing units over the next decade.
- The Housing Accelerator Fund is part of Canada’s National Housing Strategy (NHS), an $82+ billion plan to give more Canadians a place to call home. Progress on programs and initiatives is 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 $38.89 billion to support the creation of almost 152,000 units and the repair of over 241,000. 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
- Making housing more affordable for Canadians
- National Housing Strategy
February 21, 2024
Edmonton, Alberta
Right now, in communities across the country, building 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 – whether they are just starting out, growing their families, or aging in security – 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 Edmonton, Alberta, to fast-track over 5,200 new housing units over the next three years. This work will help spur the construction of more than 22,000 homes over the next decade and help meet the demand in Edmonton.
Under the Housing Accelerator Fund, this agreement will provide over $175 million to eliminate barriers to building the housing we need, faster. It will create more housing options in the city, including more rentals, affordable apartments, and housing near university and college campuses. Edmonton has already begun permitting eight units as of right and up to three storeys city-wide, with some neighborhoods permitted to build up to eight storeys. As part of the agreement, the city will streamline zoning bylaw approvals, build more homes around public transit, and use city-owned land to build hundreds of new homes.
To build more affordable, non-profit housing, Edmonton will give more resources to builders, provide pre-development funding, and shorten approval timelines to ensure these projects get off the ground. Edmonton has been a leader in innovative home-building and together, these initiatives will significantly improve the way affordable housing is built and delivered in one of Canada’s largest cities.
The Housing Accelerator Fund is helping cut red tape and fast-track the construction of over 600,000 new homes for people in towns, cities, and Indigenous communities across Canada over the next decade. 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 supporting the middle class – 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 are working with provincial, territorial, and municipal governments, as well as Indigenous partners, to build more homes for Canadians, faster, and make life better for everyone.
Quotes
“Edmonton needs more homes that Canadians can afford. That’s why we’re working with the City to cut red tape and change the way we build housing. Today’s announcement with Edmonton will build more affordable homes, faster, and help more Canadians achieve home ownership.”
“We are excited and proud to announce this partnership with Edmonton today. From incentivizing development in priority growth areas and around transit hubs to streamlining the permitting process and working with the City to pave the way for more affordable homes, we will ensure that Edmonton has more of the kind of homes we need to tackle the housing crisis. By working with cities, towns, mayors, and all levels of government, we are getting more homes built for Canadians at prices they can afford.”
“Edmonton has made bold moves to ensure our city can support diverse and affordable housing options for all. Under the Housing Accelerator Fund, we can boost building opportunities, streamline our processes, and build inclusive, climate-resilient communities. Investments like these are essential to make the systemic changes needed to address the housing and houselessness emergency in Edmonton.”
Quick Facts
- The City of Edmonton’s Housing Accelerator Fund agreement will also update water flow regulations, promote secondary suite development, adjust administrative standards for affordable housing development, and reduce application review timelines through digitization, automation, and artificial intelligence.
- As part of its Action Plan, Edmonton will gradually phase out the tax premium on properties that have four or more units on one lot. Currently, the tax rate on these properties is 15 per cent more than on other residential properties. It will be lowered by three per cent each year for five years.
- 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 and fast-track at least 100,000 permitted new homes over the first three years.
- With today’s announcement, the Government of Canada has signed 50 agreements since the launch of the Housing Accelerator Fund. Combined, these agreements will fast-track an estimated total of over 600,000 housing units over the next decade.
- The Housing Accelerator Fund is part of Canada’s National Housing Strategy (NHS), an $82+ billion plan to give more Canadians a place to call home. Progress on programs and initiatives is 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 $38.89 billion to support the creation of almost 152,000 units and the repair of over 241,000. 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
- Making housing more affordable for Canadians
- National Housing Strategy
February 20, 2024
Vancouver, British Columbia
The cost to build homes in Canada is too high, and the time it takes to finish projects is too long. To help solve these challenges, and to help build homes middle-class Canadians can afford, the federal government is partnering with the Province of British Columbia on the recently announced BC Builds initiative.
As announced last week, British Columbia’s BC Builds program will provide more than $2 billion in provincial financing and will commit $950 million to build thousands of middle-class rental homes on government, non-profit, community-owned, and underused land. The Province will partner with non-profits, local governments, First Nations, and homebuilders to identify available land and, using lower government borrowing rates, offer low-cost financing to build more homes.
Today, the Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, alongside the Premier of British Columbia, David Eby, announced that the federal government will provide up to $2 billion in additional federal financing, increasing the impact of British Columbia’s BC Builds program.
Combined with the Province’s investment, the $2 billion in low-cost loans, available through the Apartment Construction Loan Program, will help build a minimum of 8,000 to 10,000 additional new homes for the middle class. As more land is secured, thousands more units will be built – fast‑tracking construction and ensuring that more of these homes are available at below-market rates.
The BC Builds program focuses on a few simple ideas:
- Building on government, non-profit, community-owned, and underused land;
- Streamlining the process to cut development approval timelines from 3-5 years to 12-18 months; and
- Creating homes middle-class Canadians can afford with the aim that middle-income households are spending no more than approximately 30 per cent of their income on rent.
This historic contribution of federal financing to BC Builds will be the first of its kind in Canada. This will help create more housing that is affordable for working Canadians, bring down the cost of home-building, and ensure that middle-class households have affordable homes for their families.
BC Builds has identified 20 initial sites on government, First Nations, non-profit, and community-owned land throughout the province. With innovative programs like BC Builds, along with federal investments, we can help get more homes built for Canadians, faster and at prices they can afford. The Government of Canada will work with the Government of British Columbia over the coming months to ensure that we get the best outcomes possible for British Columbians.
Quotes
“Canada needs more homes that the middle class can afford. That’s what today’s announcement with British Columbia is all about. Our investment, through the BC Builds program, will use public land to create more affordable housing, bring down the cost of construction, and ensure that we build more homes, faster so that Canadians – from teachers, to nurses, to construction workers – can afford to stay in the communities where they work.”
“All levels of government need to work together to solve the housing crisis. With the federal government’s contribution and partnership on BC Builds, we can create even more lower-cost, middle-income homes through the program. That’s good news for our economy and for our future, but most importantly it’s good news for British Columbians looking for a decent place to live.”
“British Columbia’s BC Builds initiative is exactly the type of ambitious and innovative program we’re ready to support. It will help build more homes for the middle class, faster and at prices they can afford.”
“Teachers, nurses, construction workers, and other middle-income people need more housing options in B.C., and with several BC Builds sites identified and dozens of interested partners, we are well on our way to getting the additional housing they need built. We are in a housing crisis that requires support from all levels of government. BC Builds will ensure that middle-income housing will get built, faster and more in line with what households earn.”
Quick Facts
- The funding for a partnership with British Columbia would come from the $15 billion announced by the federal government in its 2023 Fall Economic Statement, where it committed to creating 30,000 more purpose-built rental housing units through the Apartment Construction Loan Program (ACLP). The Fall Economic Statement also outlined the federal government’s commitment to leverage this funding to encourage provinces and territories to develop ambitious housing plans that serve the needs of Canadians and the communities they live in.
- BC Builds is part of the Government of British Columbia’s $19 billion housing investment. Since 2017, the province has delivered nearly 78,000 homes across British Columbia. BC Builds program details include:
- All BC Builds units will aim to accommodate middle-income households, ensuring that they spend no more than approximately 30 per cent of their income on rent;
- The rent for BC Builds homes will not exceed the local market rates, and in many cases, will be lower;
- All households living in BC Builds homes will undergo income testing upon move-in;
- BC Builds will take a community-based approach, recognizing that “middle-income” varies by community; and
- BC Builds projects aim to deliver more two-, three- and four-bedroom homes, at below-market rents.
- Totalling over $40 billion in funding, the ACLP spurs the construction of rental housing by providing fully repayable, low-interest loans to builders and developers. The program focuses on communities where there is a need for additional rental housing supply, and it also encourages housing that is energy-efficient, accessible, and makes more efficient use of urban space. Since 2017, the ACLP has committed over $17 billion in loans to support more than 46,000 new rental homes across the country.
- The ACLP is part of Canada’s National Housing Strategy (NHS). Launched in 2017, the NHS is a 10-year, $82+ billion plan to give more people in Canada a place to call home. It includes a range of complementary programs and initiatives that address diverse needs across the entire housing continuum. Progress on programs and initiatives is updated quarterly at www.placetocallhome.ca. The Housing Funding Initiatives Map shows the variety of housing projects that have received funding commitments.
- The NHS also includes the Housing Accelerator Fund, a $4 billion initiative designed to help cities, towns, and Indigenous governments unlock new housing supply. To date, the federal government has signed 49 Housing Accelerator Fund agreements to fast-track an estimated total of over 600,000 housing units over the next decade.
- Since the creation of the NHS, the Government of Canada has committed over $38 billion to support the creation of almost 152,000 units and the repair of over 241,000, and provided affordability support for close to 500,000 households. The NHS prioritizes those in greatest need, including seniors, Indigenous Peoples, people experiencing or at risk of homelessness, and women and children fleeing violence.
Associated Links
February 19, 2024
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced that the Prime Minister of Italy, Giorgia Meloni, will visit Toronto, Canada on March 2, 2024.
As Italy presides over the G7 this year, Prime Minister Trudeau and Prime Minister Meloni will work together to address global challenges. Canada and Italy are committed to supporting Ukraine against Russia’s illegal and unjustifiable war of aggression. The two leaders are also involved in diplomatic efforts to address the crisis in the Middle East following the brutal terror attack on Israel by Hamas on October 7th. Canada and Italy continue to call for the immediate release of all hostages and the critical need for rapid, safe, and unimpeded humanitarian relief to civilians in Gaza.
As founding members of NATO, Canada and Italy will also remain steadfast in defending democracy around the world. The prime ministers will also explore opportunities to work with African partners in their efforts to promote peace, development, and prosperity across the continent.
Prime Minister Meloni’s visit to Canada will build on the close relationship between Canada and Italy, founded in deep people-to-people ties and strong collaboration on shared priorities such as climate action and emerging technologies like artificial intelligence. The leaders are committed to growing trade and commercial ties between Canada and Italy, and to accelerating efforts toward the clean energy transition. As Canada prepares to host the G7 in 2025, the relationship between the two countries will only deepen. Together, Canada and Italy will create economic growth that creates good, middle-class jobs on both sides of the Atlantic.
Quote
“Canada and Italy are friends, partners, and allies. Our relationship is strengthened by our people and our shared commitment to climate action, innovation, and defending democracy. I look forward to welcoming Prime Minster Meloni to Canada and working together to make life better for Canadians and Italians alike.”
Quick Facts
- Prime Minister Trudeau and Prime Minister Meloni last met in person on the margins of the 78th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York City, in September 2023.
- This will be Prime Minister Meloni’s first official visit to Canada since her election as Prime Minister of Italy in 2022.
- Canada and Italy are like-minded on key global and regional issues and work closely together in a range of multilateral institutions, including the United Nations, the G7, the G20 and North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO).
- With more than 1.5 million people who reported Italian heritage in 2021, Canada is home to one of the largest Italian diasporas in the world. From business to sports, cuisine, politics, and much more, the Italo-Canadian community enriches all aspects of Canadian society.
- In 2023, two-way merchandise trade between Canada and Italy totalled $15.6 billion, making Italy Canada’s 8th largest global merchandise trading partner, and Canada's 2nd largest in the European Union.
Associated Links
- Canada-Italy relations
- Canada and the G7
- Canada and the G20
- Canada and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization
- Canada’s response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine
February 18, 2024
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced the appointment of the Honourable R. Lester Jesudason, a judge of the Supreme Court of Nova Scotia (Family Division), as the new Associate Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Nova Scotia (Family Division).
Associate Chief Justice Jesudason replaces the Honourable Lawrence I. O’Neil, who elected to become a supernumerary judge effective October 22, 2023.
Quote
“I wish the Honourable R. Lester Jesudason every success as he takes on his new role as Associate Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Nova Scotia in the Family Division. With his extensive experience in law, he will continue to serve the people of Nova Scotia with dedication.”
Quick Facts
- Chief Justices and Associate Chief Justices in Canada are responsible for the leadership and administration of their courts. They also serve as members of the Canadian Judicial Council, which works to improve the quality of judicial services in the superior courts of Canada.
- Chief Justices and Associate Chief Justices are appointed by the Governor General on the advice of Cabinet and the recommendation of the Prime Minister.
