Canada-Nicaragua relations
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Bilateral relations
Since 1961, Canada has been represented in Nicaragua by the Embassy of Canada to Costa Rica, in San José and through the Office to the Embassy of Canada to Nicaragua, in Managua. In addition to managing Canada’s bilateral development program with Nicaragua, the Office also provides full consular services to Canadians. Nicaragua maintains an Embassy in Ottawa.
Nicaragua experienced nationwide civil unrest after anti-government protests in 2018. Since 2019, Canada has imposed sanctions on a total of 35 individuals who are associated with the Ortega regime under the Special Economic Measures (Nicaragua) Regulations.
Canada has called for a peaceful solution that includes a resumption of a political dialogue, democratic reforms, the respect for human rights and the immediate release of political prisoners. Canada continues to work both bilaterally and multilaterally for a lasting resolution.
Canada and Nicaragua’s bilateral relationship has historically been based on advancing broad-based mutual prosperity through trade, investment and development.
Education
Canada supports Nicaragua in education efforts through scholarships and awards. The Emerging Leaders in the Americas Program (ELAP) offers short-term scholarship opportunities for students from Latin America and the Caribbean to study or conduct research in Canada. Academic agreements like the ELAP help grow research and student exchanges. For a complete list of available scholarships, visit the International Scholarships Program.
Trade relations
Canada and Nicaragua maintain a stable trade and investment relationship, with Canada holding a significant trade deficit. Canadian exports mainly include fertilizer, meat products, electrical equipment, mechanical equipment and plastics. Canada’s main imports include clothing, coffee, electrical machinery, fruits and vegetables.
In 2019, Canada imposed sanctions against members of the Government of Nicaragua under the Special Economic Measures Act.
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Development
Canada’s international assistance in Nicaragua is aligned to the Feminist International Assistance Policy. It focuses on growth that works for everyone, sexual reproductive health and rights, vocational training, and inclusive governance, as well as action on the environment and climate change. The aim is to improve the socio-economic well-being, health and equality for the poorest, marginalized and most vulnerable people of Nicaragua, especially women, girls, and youth.
Given the political situation, Canada does not provide bilateral financial assistance to the Government of Nicaragua. Projects are implemented through experienced Canadian and international non-governmental organizations and international organizations of the United Nations.
Canada is also committed to addressing the root causes of irregular migration, and the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Through its international development program, Canada continues to work towards the international commitments of the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals. Canada also provides humanitarian assistance to respond to natural disasters such as hurricanes, and food insecurity/hunger.
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