Statement by the Prime Minister on International Women’s Day
March 8, 2024
Ottawa, Ontario
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The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on International Women’s Day:
“Women in Canada have made transformative progress in shaping our country for the better. Today, on International Women’s Day, we celebrate the remarkable achievements of women and girls around the world and recommit ourselves to building a fairer, safer, and more inclusive future.
“This year’s theme, ‘Invest in women: Accelerate progress’, reminds us that advancing gender equality is about building stronger, more inclusive, and prosperous communities. When women and girls are meaningfully supported and represented, we break barriers, spur progress, and shape a better future for generations to come.
“That means giving women more choices in the work force, closing the gender wage gap, and reaffirming our collective commitment to women’s leadership – from public offices to corporate boardrooms to university and college campuses. That is why we have invested nearly $7 billion in Canada’s first Women Entrepreneurship Strategy – helping women start up, scale up, and soar, in whatever field they choose. With over half of provinces and territories now offering $10-a-day child care and the rest well on their way, we are also seeing the benefits of record-high levels of women’s participation in the workforce. Building an affordable, accessible, and high-quality child care system is good for kids, good for families, and good for the economy.
“Women should never have to choose between paying bills and protecting their health. That’s why we will work with provinces and territories to provide universal contraceptive coverage in our pharmacare legislation – ensuring women can make their own decisions about their own reproductive health.
“As part of our commitment to address the national crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people, we are accelerating the implementation of the Federal Pathway and providing new funding for services that support Indigenous women and girls, along with other marginalized groups.
“We are also making our workplaces more inclusive, including by ensuring federally regulated employees can access menstrual products at no cost while on the job. And through the recently launched Equi’Vision tool, we are encouraging businesses to address pay gaps and underrepresentation in Canadian workplaces.
“Canada remains a champion for advancing gender equality beyond our borders. As part of our ten-year commitment to global health and rights, we are committed to spending an average of $700 million annually to support comprehensive sexual and reproductive health and rights for women and girls around the globe, starting in 2023-24. In addition, Canada’s upcoming third National Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security will advance the full, equal, and meaningful participation of women in peace and security efforts at home and abroad. This includes our ongoing work through the Canada-led Elsie Initiative for Women in Peace Operations to make sure women can participate even more in UN peace operations.
“As women’s rights come under attack, we need to do even more to empower and celebrate the voices of women, and especially diverse women.
“On this International Women’s Day, let’s celebrate the incredible contributions of women and girls to our communities, our country, and our world. We all have a role to play – as partners and allies – in achieving gender equality and building a better future. Because when women and girls succeed, we all do.”
March 8, 2024
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on Mahashivratri, also known as the Great Night of Shiva:
“Today, Hindu communities in Canada and around the world will mark Mahashivratri.
“On this sacred occasion, Hindus honour Shiva – one of the main deities of Hinduism – by gathering with friends and family to pray and visit their local mandirs.
“Celebrated on the eve of the new moon, Mahashivratri is a time for reflection and gratitude, signifying the triumph over darkness and our pursuit of a brighter, more peaceful future.
“Mahashivratri also serves as an opportunity to celebrate Hindu communities and their contributions from coast to coast to coast. As Canadians of Hindu faith observe this occasion, we are reminded that diversity is our country’s greatest strength. In this spirit, we reaffirm our commitment to building a safer, more inclusive, and more welcoming Canada for everyone.
“On behalf of the Government of Canada, I wish a happy Mahashivratri to everyone celebrating.”
March 7, 2024
Toronto, Ontario
Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke with the Prime Minister of Barbados, Mia Mottley, to discuss recent developments in Haiti.
The leaders expressed their deep concern over the increasing gang violence and turbulence that the country is experiencing. They agreed on the urgency of deploying the United Nations-authorized Multinational Security Support mission to advance efforts from the Haitian National Police to improve security conditions for civilians. Prime Minister Trudeau expressed his appreciation for Barbados’ commitment to contribute security personnel to the mission and underscored that Canada remains committed to working with Barbados, Kenya, and other partners to support a successful mission.
The prime ministers also discussed the important role of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), of which Barbados is a member, to promote inclusive political dialogue in support of a Haitian-led solution to the crisis. The leaders reiterated the critical need of reaching an inclusive political consensus to create the conditions for free and fair general elections and for the restoration of democratic order in Haiti.
Prime Minister Trudeau and Prime Minister Mottley reaffirmed the strong bond between Canada and Barbados and agreed to remain in contact as the situation in Haiti continues to evolve.
Associated Links
- Canada-Barbados relations
- Caribbean Community (CARICOM)
- Canada announces $123 million in funding to improve security in Haiti
- Prime Minister and Caribbean leaders take next steps to fight climate change, grow strong economies, and strengthen regional security
March 7, 2024
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on Sweden’s accession to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO):
“Canada and Sweden are friends, partners, and now, NATO Allies. Today, we welcome Sweden’s accession to the Alliance, where it joins 31 other Allies committed to uniting their efforts for peace, security, and collective defence. Canada was the first country to ratify Sweden’s accession – a testament to the strong ties between our peoples, our shared values, and our commitment to strengthening transatlantic security.
“Russia’s brutal, full-scale invasion of Ukraine shook the world. As Russia continues to violate human rights, attack the principles of democracy, and undermine the rules-based international order, working with Allies to uphold our common values is more important than ever – and the resolve of NATO is stronger than ever.
“Canada was a founding member of NATO in 1949, and our membership to the Alliance has been a cornerstone of our security and defence policy ever since. Today, as we welcome Sweden to the Alliance, we know that together we will address the greatest challenges of our time.”
March 5, 2024
Ottawa, Ontario
Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with the President of Ecuador, Daniel Noboa.
The Prime Minister and the President highlighted the strong bilateral relations between Canada and Ecuador. They welcomed the imminent launch of negotiations toward a Canada-Ecuador free trade agreement, underscoring the importance of a comprehensive bilateral agreement for long-term economic growth and stability in both countries.
The leaders agreed to deepen collaboration on priority issues, including trade and investment, inclusive economic growth, and peace and security. They also discussed the importance of collaborating on climate action, including through a $120 million sovereign loan that Canada intends to provide, which will support Ecuador’s clean energy transition and help it attract investment in renewable energy projects. The two leaders discussed reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples in Canada and Ecuador, and highlighted its importance for both governments.
The two leaders committed to working together to tackle regional and global challenges. The Prime Minister also expressed his support for the President as Ecuador tackles violence perpetrated by organized crime.
The two leaders discussed the ongoing situation in the Middle East, with the Prime Minister underscoring the need for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza. The Prime Minister reiterated Canada’s support for the right of Israelis, Palestinians, and all in the region to live in peace, dignity, and security, without fear.
Prime Minister Trudeau and President Noboa looked forward to making progress on shared priorities and remaining in regular contact.
Associated Links
- Canada-Ecuador relations
- Notice of Intent to enter into negotiations toward a Canada-Ecuador free trade agreement
- Minister Hussen announces negotiations of sovereign loan to Ecuador
- Canada’s response to the crisis in Israel, the West Bank and the Gaza Strip
March 5, 2024
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced that a state funeral will be held for the Right Honourable Brian Mulroney, former Prime Minister of Canada, who passed away on February 29, 2024.
The Right Honourable Brian Mulroney was an extraordinary statesman and a distinguished politician, lawyer, and businessman who devoted his career to serving Canadians.
As Canada’s 18th Prime Minister, he made significant progress on important issues here at home and around the world. His leadership was instrumental in negotiating and implementing free trade agreements with the United States and Mexico, milestones that reshaped economic relations across North America. He built bridges between French and English Canada, led important measures on environmental issues, and fiercely advocated for peace, equality, and democracy internationally. Mr. Mulroney was a recipient of numerous honours, including the Order of Canada and the Ordre national du Québec – recognizing his tireless service and devotion to our country.
The state funeral ceremony will be held on March 23, 2024, in Montréal, Quebec, and will be preceded by a lying-in-state in Ottawa, Ontario, and a lying-in-repose in Montréal. These events will give Canadians an opportunity to salute Mr. Mulroney’s contributions to public life and offer their condolences. More details will be provided in due course.
Quote
“Brian Mulroney never stopped working for Canada. He was a champion of the values that unite us as Canadians and will forever be remembered as a force for the common good. His funeral will provide an opportunity to honour his incredible legacy – one that will continue to shape our country for generations to come.”
Quick Facts
- State funerals are public events held to honour and commemorate present and former governors general, present and former prime ministers, and sitting members of the Ministry. In addition, any eminent Canadian may be offered a state funeral at the discretion of the Prime Minister.
- Canadians are invited to visit the commemorative web page to learn more about the life of the Right Honourable Brian Mulroney and to sign the online book of condolences.
