Statement by the Prime Minister to mark 11 years since the Lac-Mégantic tragedy
July 6, 2024
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement to mark 11 years since the Lac-Mégantic tragedy:
“Eleven years ago today, a train derailment and explosion in Lac-Mégantic, Quebec, claimed the lives of 47 people and devastated much of the community’s downtown area.
“This tragedy is the deadliest railway accident in Canadian history. Today, I join the people of Lac-Mégantic and all Canadians to remember those we lost. We also honour the courage and resilience of the survivors as they rebuild their lives and their community.
“In response to this disaster, the federal government has put safety measures in place, including increased checks and stronger regulations, to secure our railway transportation system. We continue to work with the Government of Quebec and local municipalities to deliver the Rail Bypass Project and ensure trains leave downtown Lac-Mégantic for good.
“To the people of Lac-Mégantic: Your strength continues to inspire us all. On this sombre day, we are thinking of you.”
July 5, 2024
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced that Anthony Housefather, Member of Parliament for Mount Royal, has been named Special Advisor on Jewish Community Relations and Antisemitism.
In recent months, we’ve seen a disturbing rise in antisemitism across the world, including right here in Canada. This must not continue. Whether it’s at a synagogue or a Jewish business or school; whether it’s wearing the Star of David or a Kippah – Jewish Canadians deserve to feel safe, supported, and welcomed. They deserve to live openly and proudly Jewish lives, without intimidation or fear. Too often in recent months, Canadians have been threatened, harassed, and excluded because of their faith, their identity, or because they support the Jewish people’s right to self-determination. That is unacceptable and must stop.
Mr. Housefather’s role will be to advise the Prime Minister and ministers on the development and co-ordination of the Government of Canada’s work to combat antisemitism and ensure Jewish Canadians are able to live with vibrancy, security, and dignity. This will include working with Jewish Canadians from across the country. Mr. Housefather will help advance actions throughout the federal government to combat antisemitism, enhance the protection of Jewish Canadian communities, and address the unacceptable discrimination against them – both historical and current. In this role, Mr. Housefather will work closely with Jewish communities and relevant stakeholders across the country and Canada’s Special Envoy on Preserving Holocaust Remembrance and Combatting Antisemitism, Deborah Lyons.
Mr. Housefather has been an elected official for 30 years. He served as a municipal councillor from 1994 to 2005 and as Mayor of Côte-Saint-Luc, in Montréal, from 2005 to 2015. As a former Chair of the House of Commons Standing Committee on Justice and Human Rights and a steadfast advocate for Jewish Canadians, Mr. Housefather has advanced efforts to tackle antisemitism, hate, and bigotry in Canada. As Co-Chair of the Inter-Parliamentary Task Force to Combat Online Antisemitism, he has also helped tackle antisemitism around the world, including in online spaces – working with international parliamentarians, the world’s leading social media platforms, ambassadors, and special envoys. His breadth of experience advocating for Jewish communities at home and abroad will bring value to this role.
Antisemitism is not a problem for the Jewish community to solve alone. We will continue to take action – across government – to make Canada safer, more inclusive, and better for everyone.
Quotes
“We stand with Jewish Canadians – today and every day. And we will do whatever it takes to fight antisemitism and hate, which is unfortunately too prevalent in our communities. With Mr. Housefather’s appointment, we’re continuing to make sure Jewish Canadians’ voices are heard, protecting Jewish Canadian communities, and making Canada more inclusive for everyone.”
— The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada
“There has been no time in my lifetime when Jewish Canadians have felt as threatened as they do today. While we cannot make antisemitism disappear, all levels of government, universities, and police can take concrete steps to make Jewish Canadians feel safer in this country. I am grateful to the Prime Minister for putting me in a position where I can work with Deborah Lyons to help translate words to action.”
— Anthony Housefather, Special Advisor on Jewish Community Relations and Antisemitism
Quick Fact
- Mr. Housefather will undertake his new responsibilities while continuing his role as Parliamentary Secretary to the President of the Treasury Board.
July 5, 2024
York Region, Ontario
Public transit shortens commute times, grows our economy, and helps keep our air clean. As we build more homes faster, public transit will also connect our communities in affordable and accessible ways. That’s why our government is investing in local infrastructure – including electric transit – to reduce emissions and build a better, fairer future.
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, alongside the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Regional Municipality of York, Wayne Emmerson, today announced a federal investment of $76 million to help York Region build an electric bus fleet and reach net-zero by 2050.
Supported by this funding, York Region will get 180 zero-emission buses, 91 battery electric chargers, and 14 on-route chargers. Provided through the federal government’s Zero Emission Transit Fund, these electric buses will be an innovative, zero-emission transit option that will help people get to work, reduce traffic congestion, and require less maintenance than traditional diesel buses. Once in service, the 180 buses are expected to reduce emissions by approximately 15,982 tonnes annually – the equivalent of taking 4,000 vehicles off our roads.
York Region’s three existing transit facilities that will house the zero-emission buses will also be upgraded with solar power and battery energy storage systems, further reducing emissions and growing clean-energy alternatives.
In addition to the federal investment, this project is supported by a $136 million loan announced last year by the Canada Infrastructure Bank. Together, this team effort will help York Region reduce emissions and offer a clean, reliable, and affordable transit option to the more than 1.25 million people who call the community home.
By investing in public transit, we are building stronger, fairer communities across the country. This is especially true when it comes to Millennial and Gen Z Canadians, many of whom rely on public transit. By growing public transit and reducing emissions, we’re giving younger Canadians a clean, affordable, and reliable option to get around. Alongside this, we’re cutting red tape, building more homes, modernizing infrastructure, and growing our economy. Our goal is clear – making sure our communities have the investments they need to succeed, now and for generations to come.
Quotes
“Canadians need to get to work with less traffic, more comfort, and clean air – that’s what public transit is all about. With today’s announcement, York Region will soon have 180 new zero-emission buses and the chargers to go with it. Our government is making our transit system fairer, with innovative, climate-friendly, and affordable options to get you where you need to be.”
— The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada
“Public transit is an invaluable tool in making people’s lives easier and for tackling climate change. We’re proud to announce this partnership with York Region today that will go a long way in doing both.”
— The Hon. Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities
“York Region’s transition to electric buses is a critical step toward reducing emissions for decades to come. The Canada Infrastructure Bank’s $136 million loan, combined with the Zero Emission Transit Fund grant, supports much cleaner and quieter public transportation for residents.”
— Ehren Cory, Chief Executive Officer of the Canada Infrastructure Bank
“Access to safe and efficient transportation options continues to be a top priority for York Regional Council and the more than 1.25 million residents who call our communities home. With the support of the Government of Canada and the Canada Infrastructure Bank, we are able to further increase access to public transit in a way that supports the Council’s goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.”
— Wayne Emmerson, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Regional Municipality of York
Quick Facts
- The federal funding announced today is contingent on parties signing a contribution agreement.
- This project is also supported by an investment of $177 million from the Regional Municipality of York.
- The federal government’s Zero Emission Transit Fund (ZETF) helps Canadian communities transition to zero-emission transit and school buses in order to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and contribute to Canada’s net-zero emissions targets. By electrifying their bus fleets, communities are working toward a cleaner environment.
- The ZETF complements Canada’s 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan: Clean Air, Strong Economy, through which the Government of Canada is providing funding for public transit in support of making clean and affordable transportation options available in every community across the country.
- The ZETF is closely co-ordinated with the Canada Infrastructure Bank’s Zero-Emission Buses Initiative, which to date has committed more than $1.5 billion toward a target of 5,000 zero-emission buses (ZEBs) across the country.
- Since 2015, the federal government has invested over $30 billion in over 1,800 transit projects across Canada, providing Canadians with cleaner and more efficient commuting options. These investments are helping to build more than 350 kilometres of new public transit subway and light-rail line, purchase over 3,360 ZEBs, and create almost 1,175 kilometres of active transportation trails, bike lanes, pedestrian lanes, and recreational paths.
Associated Links
- Zero Emission Transit Fund
- 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan: Clean Air, Strong Economy
- Infrastructure in Ontario
July 5, 2024
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement to congratulate Sir Keir Starmer on his election as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom:
“On behalf of the Government of Canada, I congratulate Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer on his election.
“Canada and the United Kingdom have one of the strongest bilateral relationships in the world, built on generations of shared history and values. From the North Atlantic Treaty Organization to the G7 to the Commonwealth, we are longstanding partners and friends on the international stage. Together, we remain steadfast in our shared efforts to uphold democracy, strengthen collective security and defence, defend the rules-based international order, take transformative climate action, and build a better, fairer future for generations to come.
“Our countries enjoy robust economic ties, and I look forward to further strengthening them with Prime Minister Starmer. We will advance our relationship through progressive action on shared priorities such as clean technology, human rights, gender equality, and building economies that are fairer for every generation. As we work to conclude the Canada-United Kingdom Free Trade Agreement and deepen our relationship with the Indo-Pacific region through the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership, we reaffirm our mutual commitment to driving fair, dynamic economic growth and creating good middle-class jobs on both sides of the Atlantic.
“I thank former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak for his strong partnership over the last two years. Together, we took action on climate change, strengthened our defence and security relationship, and defended democracy around the world, including by supporting the training of Ukrainian troops in the face of Russia’s unjustifiable war of aggression. I wish him all the best in his future endeavours.”
July 4, 2024
Ottawa, Ontario
Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau convened the Incident Response Group with ministers and senior officials to discuss the evolving situation in the Middle East, with a focus on the risk of further escalation along Israel’s northern border, which Hezbollah continues to bombard with rockets. The Government of Canada remains fully engaged on these issues and is focused on the safety and security of Canadians in the region.
Prime Minister Trudeau underscored the urgent need to avoid further escalation. The Prime Minister and ministers considered the latest developments, ongoing efforts to support de-escalation, and Canada’s state of readiness to respond to potential scenarios. The Prime Minister and ministers emphasized the urgent need for Canadians to leave Lebanon while commercial options for travel are available, as assisted departures or evacuations cannot be guaranteed in the event of further escalation. They underscored the importance that Canadians ensure their travel documents, including those of their spouse and dependent children, are always up to date and secure.
Associated Links
- Canada-Lebanon relations
- Canada’s response to the crisis in Israel, the West Bank and the Gaza Strip
- Joint Statement on the situation in Gaza
July 4, 2024
Ottawa, Ontario
Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke with the President of Israel, Isaac Herzog. The Prime Minister and the President discussed the latest developments in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza.
The Prime Minister reiterated his condemnation of the brutal terrorist attacks conducted by Hamas and other terrorist groups against Israel on October 7, 2023. The Prime Minister expressed his support for an immediate ceasefire, and both leaders called for the immediate release of all remaining hostages held by Hamas. The Prime Minister also stressed the importance of protecting Palestinian civilians and the need for increased and sustained humanitarian assistance to civilians in Gaza.
The Prime Minister condemned the disturbing rise of antisemitism globally.
The Prime Minister highlighted Canada’s longstanding support for a two-state solution to secure a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace in the region. He also underscored Canada’s support for democratic values and the rules based international order.
Prime Minister Trudeau also voiced Canada’s concerns over further escalation along Israel’s northern border, which Hezbollah continues to bombard with rockets, and expressed concern for civilians. The Prime Minister underscored the importance of avoiding further escalation.
Prime Minister Trudeau and President Herzog agreed to remain in contact as the situation continues to evolve.
Associated Links
- Canada-Israel 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
- Joint Statement by Leaders of the United States, Argentina, Austria, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, Colombia, Denmark, France, Germany, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Serbia, Spain, Thailand, and the United Kingdom on Gaza
- Prime Minister Justin Trudeau speaks with President of Israel Isaac Herzog
July 4, 2024
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced the reappointment of Dr. Mona Nemer as Canada’s Chief Science Advisor for a term of three years, effective September 25, 2024.
A distinguished medical researcher, Dr. Nemer has served as Canada’s Chief Science Advisor since 2017. In this role, she will continue to provide scientific advice to the federal government so that science is reflected in public policy. Her advice will ensure we have the evidence we need to make good decisions that help us grow the middle class and deliver fairness for every generation.
Scientists need to have a voice. They need to be able to speak freely about their work. And as we continue to see the devastating effects of climate change across the country, their work is more important than ever. From breakthroughs in life-saving medicine, to clean technology, to biodiversity preservation – the discoveries that scientists make give us the tools we need to take better care of ourselves, of each other, and of the world around us.
Quotes
“We believe in science and for scientists to freely explore, discover, and ask questions. Over the past seven years, Dr. Nemer has provided invaluable advice to myself and my Cabinet to make scientific evidence a key part of public policy. I congratulate her on her reappointment and look forward to advancing our work together to make life better, fairer, and more prosperous for Canadians.”
— The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada
“Congratulations to Dr. Nemer on her reappointment as Canada’s Chief Science Advisor. Dr. Nemer has played an important advisory role since 2017. Under her leadership, the network of ministerial scientific advisors across the government has grown, including the establishment of a youth council to assist Canada in its science policy considerations. I look forward to continuing to work with Dr. Nemer in advancing Canada’s lead in research and innovation as well as inspiring the next generation of Canadian scientists.”
— The Hon. François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry
“Science and technology play vital roles in shaping a healthy and sustainable future for everyone. From dealing with wildfires and extreme weather events, to the responsible development of artificial intelligence, to preparing for future pandemics, science will inform the solutions that strengthen our society. It is an honour to continue in this role, contributing to the advancement of research and innovation across our country and ensuring that Canadians reap the full benefits of science.”
— Dr. Mona Nemer, Canada’s Chief Science Advisor
Quick Facts
- Dr. Nemer was first appointed as Canada’s Chief Science Advisor in 2017, following an open, transparent, and merit-based selection process. She was reappointed to this role in 2020 and in 2022.
- Since 2017, the Office of the Chief Science Advisor has provided independent advice to the government on a number of issues, including managing the COVID-19 pandemic, preparing for future emergencies, promoting open science and scientific integrity, and strengthening Canada’s Arctic research enterprise.
- The Chief Science Advisor’s key functions include:
- providing advice on the development and implementation of guidelines to ensure that government science is fully available to the public and that federal scientists are able to speak freely about their work.
- providing advice on creating and implementing processes to ensure that scientific analyses are considered when the government makes decisions.
- assessing and recommending ways to improve the existing science advisory function within the federal government.
- assessing and recommending ways for the government to better support quality scientific research within the federal system.
Biographical Note
Associated Links
July 3, 2024
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced the upcoming appointment of Lieutenant-General Jennie Carignan, currently Chief, Professional Conduct and Culture, National Defence, as Chief of the Defence Staff. She will be promoted to the rank of General and will replace the current Chief of the Defence Staff, General Wayne Eyre, who is retiring from the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF).
Lieutenant-General Carignan will be the first woman in our country’s history to lead the CAF. Her military career in service of Canada and Canadians spans over 35 years and includes commanding two Combat Engineer Regiments and the 2nd Canadian Division, where she led more than 10,000 soldiers and spearheaded crisis operations during flood relief efforts in Quebec.
In 2008, Lieutenant-General Carignan became the first woman in CAF history to command a combat arms unit. She deployed to Afghanistan the following year, and also served in Bosnia-Herzegovina and Syria. From 2019 to 2020, she led NATO Mission Iraq, helping to strengthen Iraqi security institutions and forces to fight terrorism and stabilize the country. She was promoted to her current rank in 2021 and has served for the past three years as Chief, Professional Conduct and Culture, National Defence, leading efforts to transform the culture of the CAF. Lieutenant-General Carignan has received numerous accolades in recognition of her dedicated and exceptional service, including the Meritorious Service Medal and the Meritorious Service Cross.
In the face of new and evolving security threats, the CAF are more important than ever, from defending our continent – including in the Arctic – and providing life-saving assistance to Canadians affected by natural disasters to strengthening NATO’s collective defence and providing military support to Ukraine. In her new role as Chief of the Defence Staff, Lieutenant-General Carignan will oversee the CAF’s ongoing operations, at home and around the world, in support of these important goals, while continuing to advance our efforts to build a respectful and inclusive environment for members of our Armed Forces.
The Prime Minister reiterated his thanks to General Eyre for his leadership as Chief of the Defence Staff since 2021, and congratulated him on his retirement, following 40 years of distinguished military service. General Eyre will continue to serve in his role until the appointment of the new Chief of the Defence Staff takes effect at a Change of Command ceremony to be held on July 18, 2024.
Quotes
“I congratulate Lieutenant-General Jennie Carignan on her upcoming appointment. Over the course of her career, her exceptional leadership qualities, commitment to excellence, and dedication to service have been a tremendous asset to our Armed Forces. I am confident that, as Canada’s new Chief of the Defence Staff, she will help Canada be stronger, more secure, and ready to tackle global security challenges.”
— The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada
“Lieutenant-General Jennie Carignan has served Canada with great distinction both at home and abroad. Throughout her career, she has had a proven track record of excellence on difficult operations. Her extensive experience makes her the right person to lead the Canadian Armed Forces through emerging security challenges – and I am confident in the future of this crucial institution under her leadership. I extend my sincere congratulations to Lieutenant-General Carignan on her appointment as Chief of the Defence Staff and look forward to our continued work together.”
— The Hon. Bill Blair, Minister of National Defence
Quick Facts
- The Chief of the Defence Staff is charged with the control and administration of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) and is also responsible for military strategy, plans, and requirements.
- The Chief of the Defence Staff is appointed by the Governor General, on the recommendation of the Prime Minister. As commander-in-chief of Canada, the Governor General plays a major role in recognizing the importance of Canada’s military at home and abroad.
- Earlier this year, the Prime Minister and the Minister of National Defence, Bill Blair, unveiled Our North, Strong and Free: A Renewed Vision for Canada’s Defence, with an investment of $8.1 billion over five years and $73 billion over 20 years to help the CAF protect Canadians, advance our interests and values, and keep up with emerging threats today and in the years ahead.
Biographical Note
Associated Links
- Prime Minister thanks Chief of the Defence Staff for his service to Canadians
- Chief of the Defence Staff
- Our North, Strong and Free: A Renewed Vision for Canada’s Defence
July 3, 2024
Ottawa, Ontario
“We warmly welcome today’s association of Canada to Pillar II of Horizon Europe, the European Union’s framework programme for research and innovation. This is an important milestone in the long-standing strategic partnership between the European Union and Canada.
“Canada’s association to Horizon Europe demonstrates our joint commitment to enhanced collaboration in research and innovation. And it also signals a new chapter for our researchers on both sides of the Atlantic. By combining the strengths of our research communities, we can accomplish greater scientific breakthroughs and technological progress, and become better equipped to meet today’s global challenges and succeed in the Green and Digital Transitions.
“Canada’s association to Horizon Europe will allow us to build on our research and innovation co-operation in crucial areas such as oceans, health, raw materials, energy and bioeconomy, as well as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and digital infrastructure. Researchers in Canada will have access to the network of European researchers and beyond. This deeper relationship will also boost economic opportunities and contribute to job creation and growth in both regions.
“The European Union and Canada will continue open, transparent, and inclusive co-operation as we go forward, actively collaborating with our businesses, civil society, and academia. We will also ensure support for diversity and gender equality, as well as learning from the knowledge of Indigenous Peoples.
“Today’s signature reflects the European Union’s and Canada’s commitment to foster mutual collaboration in research and innovation and contributes to further deepening our strategic partnership.”
July 2, 2024
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement to congratulate Dick Schoof on his appointment as Prime Minister of the Netherlands:
“On behalf of the Government of Canada, I congratulate Dick Schoof on his appointment as Prime Minister of the Netherlands and on the swearing-in of a new government.
“Canada and the Netherlands enjoy a strong relationship rooted in a long history of shared values and close ties between our peoples. Over one million people of Dutch ancestry call Canada home, and they are an integral part of our communities from coast to coast to coast.
“I look forward to working with Prime Minister Schoof to keep advancing the close friendship between our two countries. Canada and the Netherlands are like-minded partners in several international organizations, including the United Nations, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, and the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe. Together, we will continue to address the greatest challenges of our time and advance our shared priorities. This includes supporting Ukraine in the face of Russia’s ongoing war of aggression, investing in innovation and sustainability, and promoting free and inclusive trade through the Canada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement.
“I thank outgoing Prime Minister Mark Rutte for his friendship and close partnership over the years. I wish him all the best as he prepares to lead the NATO Alliance as the next Secretary General.”
July 2, 2024
Ottawa, Ontario
For 75 years, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) has underpinned the rules-based international order. As threats to peace and security become increasingly complex and attempts to destabilize our collective defence become more sophisticated, Canada and its NATO Allies are standing united – dedicated to defending democracy, security, and freedom.
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced he will travel to Washington, D.C., United States of America, from July 8 to 11, 2024, to participate in this year’s NATO Summit.
The Summit will be an opportunity for the Prime Minister to reaffirm Canada’s commitment to Euro-Atlantic security and stability, particularly in the face of ongoing Russian aggression and destabilization. He will highlight Canada’s contributions to NATO’s collective defence efforts across Europe, including through Operation REASSURANCE, Canada’s largest active overseas military deployment.
At the Summit, Prime Minister Trudeau will meet with NATO Allies and international partners to strengthen Euro-Atlantic security. Together, NATO leaders will explore ways to bolster collective deterrence and enhance defence capabilities and co-operation, while addressing other ongoing and emerging threats to the rules-based international order.
While in Washington, the Prime Minister will meet with members of the United States Senate and House of Representatives to advance opportunities for Canadian businesses, workers, and communities across the country – as part of our Team Canada effort to promote and defend Canada’s interests in and with the United States.
Prime Minister Trudeau and NATO Allies will be joined by the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, for a NATO-Ukraine Council meeting focused on enhancing support for Ukraine and further responding to Russia’s unjustifiable war of aggression. During this meeting, Prime Minister Trudeau will underline the importance of continued military, financial, and humanitarian support to Ukraine. Throughout his visit, the Prime Minister will reaffirm Canada’s commitment to strengthening shared defence priorities and security partnerships.
Quote
“The NATO Alliance stands steadfast – protecting freedom and in defence of democracy. NATO was founded 75 years ago, and Canada has been part of nearly every operation in the Alliance. At this year’s Summit, we will strengthen our work to uphold the global order that underpins our prosperity and sovereignty.”
— The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada
Quick Facts
- At the NATO Summit, Prime Minister Trudeau will be joined by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mélanie Joly, and the Minister of National Defence, Bill Blair.
- This NATO Summit will be the first to include Sweden as a member of the Alliance. Sweden officially joined the Alliance in March 2024.
- The North Atlantic Treaty was signed in Washington, D.C., on April 4, 1949, establishing the NATO Alliance, of which Canada is a founding member.
- Current Canadian contributions to NATO include:
- Supporting NATO assurance and deterrence measures in Central and Eastern Europe through Operation REASSURANCE. With approximately 1,500 Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members currently deployed, it is Canada’s largest international military operation. Canada has been leading the NATO multinational Battlegroup, soon to be Brigade, in Latvia since 2017. In July 2023, Prime Minister Trudeau announced the renewal and expansion of Operation REASSURANCE, committing $2.6 billion to a three-year mandate, with up to 2,200 CAF troops continuously deployed.
- Deploying His Majesty’s Canadian Ship Charlottetown to join and assume flagship duties of Standing NATO Maritime Group 2 (SNMG2) as part of Operation REASSURANCE in the Mediterranean Sea. The Royal Canadian Navy’s involvement in SNMG2 demonstrates Canada’s continued participation in NATO and strengthens military co-operation with our Allies and partners in the region.
- Hosting the NATO Climate Change and Security Centre of Excellence, in Montréal, Quebec, and NATO’s North American Regional Office of the Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic, in Halifax, Nova Scotia.
- Continuing to support training and capacity-building efforts in the Middle East under Operation IMPACT, including through NATO Mission Iraq, which was set up under Canadian command, and contributing to lasting security and stability in the country.
- Providing CAF personnel support to the NATO-led international peace support operation in Kosovo through Operation KOBOLD.
- In Budget 2024 and Our North, Strong and Free: A Renewed Vision for Canada’s Defence, the Government of Canada announced $8.1 billion over five years and $73 billion over 20 years in new defence spending. This builds on historic investments the federal government has made to date to support members of our Armed Forces, strengthen Canada’s defence capabilities, and respond to global challenges.
- Since 2022, Canada has committed over $19 billion in multifaceted support to Ukraine. This includes $4 billion in military aid and equipment donations, such as Leopard 2A4 main battle tanks and an armoured recovery vehicle, armoured combat support vehicles, anti-tank weapons, and other arms and equipment. Other assistance includes $12.4 billion in financial assistance, $352.5 million in humanitarian assistance, $442 million in development assistance, and over $210 million in security and stabilization programming.
Associated Links
- Canada and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization
- Canada-United States relations
- Budget 2024: Fairness for every generation
- Our North, Strong and Free: A Renewed Vision for Canada’s Defence
- NATO Climate Change and Security Centre of Excellence
- Canada’s response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine
