Minister of Foreign Affairs appearance before the House of Commons Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development (FAAE) – Briefing material

2020-03-12

Canada–Africa relations

Canada believes strongly in the vast opportunity of Africa. We are keen to deepen our relationships with this diverse and dynamic continent for the mutual benefit of Africans and Canadians alike.
Canada remains committed to working with our African partners on shared global challenges, including advancing gender equality, enhancing the effectiveness of peace operations and tackling the challenges of climate change.
Africa has significant economic potential. We know that trade and investment builds vibrant economies and diversifies growth. Canada is committed to deepening commercial relations for the mutual benefit of Africans and Canadians alike, including women and youth.

Supplementary messages

Fifty-four African countries vote in the UNSC elections, making it a critical voting block.

Update

Prime Minister Trudeau led a delegation, including yourself, and Ministers Ng and Hussen to Ethiopia and Senegal in February 2020. All told, over the past two months, the Prime Minister, you, Parliamentary Secretary Oliphant, the Minister of International Development, the Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade as well as the Minister of Families, Children and Social Development have visited 11 countries in Africa.

Supporting facts and figures

Canada has a diplomatic presence in 19 Sub-Saharan African (SSA) countries, maintains 15 bilateral development programs and a regional development program.
In 2017-18, Canada provided over $2.32 billion in international assistance to the region.
Canada has committed to increase the share of bilateral international assistance provided to SSA to 50 per cent by 2021-2022.
In 2018, Canada had $5.5 billion in two-way merchandise trade with SSA.
Canada has eight Foreign Investment Promotion and Protection Agreements (FIPAs) in force with Benin, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Côte d'Ivoire, Guinea, Tanzania, Mali, and Senegal.
SSA is home to six of the top ten fastest growing economies in the world.
Once implemented, the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) will enhance regional economic integration and spur further growth.
Despite economic gains, some 40 per cent of Africa’s population still lives in extreme poverty.
Demographic pressures exacerbate these challenges, with 60 per cent of the population under the age of 25.
Armed conflict, political instability, terrorism and organized crime continue to affect parts of Africa, including in the Sahel and Lake Chad Basin area, in the Great Lakes and Central Africa and in the Horn of Africa.
In 2018-19, Global Affairs Canada provided $71.7 million in Peace and Security programming to SSA.

Canada’s Arctic sovereignty

Canada’s Arctic sovereignty is longstanding and well established.
The waters of Canada’s Arctic Archipelago, including the Northwest Passage, are internal waters of Canada by virtue of historic title.
Everyday, through a wide range of activities, governments, Indigenous peoples and local communities all express Canada’s enduring sovereignty over its Arctic lands and waters.

Supplementary messages

Canada welcomes navigation in its Arctic waters provided that vessels comply with Canadian rules on, among others, safety, security and the protection of the environment.
Existing boundary disputes with Denmark and the U.S. are well managed and will be resolved in due course in accordance with international law.
Canada’s differences with the U.S. on the status of the Northwest Passage are well managed, including through the 1988 Arctic Cooperation Agreement.
Canada filed its continental shelf submission for the Arctic Ocean in May 2019. Overlaps with the submissions of neighbouring states are a normal part of the process and will be resolved peacefully in accordance with international law.

Supporting facts and figures

Canada’s continental shelf submission spans 1.2 million square kilometres of seabed and subsoil in the Arctic Ocean and includes the North Pole.

Background

No one disputes Canada’s sovereignty over the lands and islands of the Canadian Arctic Archipelago. The only exception is tiny Hans Island between Ellesmere Island and Greenland, which is claimed by Denmark.

The waters of the archipelago, including the waters of the “Northwest Passage,” are internal waters of Canada by virtue of historic title, and thus Canada has full sovereignty over them. For greater clarity, in 1986 Canada drew straight baselines around the archipelago. According to the Oceans Act, all waters landward of baselines are internal waters and form part of Canada.

Under International Law, no right of transit passage by foreign vessels exists through internal waters. The U.S., however, disputes Canada’s characterization of the Northwest Passage as internal waters and considers the passage to be a strait used for internal navigation, in which a right of transit passage exists. This dispute is well managed, including through the Arctic Cooperation Agreement, under which the U.S. has committed to seek, and expects Canada to grant, consent to voyages by U.S. icebreakers through the Canadian Arctic Archipelago.

Under international law, Canada has sovereign rights over resources of the seabed and subsoil of its continental shelf, including as it extends beyond 200 nautical miles. Filing a continental shelf submission is the first step in the process that will clarify the outer limits of where these rights can be exercised.

Canada is working to resolve the (limited) maritime boundary dispute in the Lincoln Sea and the dispute over Hans Island through the Canada-Denmark Joint Task Force on Boundary Issues, established in May 2017. The Beaufort Sea dispute with the U.S. continues to be well managed and will be resolved in due course, in accordance with international law.

Brexit

Canada was pleased that the U.K. and the EU were able to avoid a no-deal Brexit.
During the transition period, there are no changes to the conduct of Canada’s affairs with either the EU or the U.K.
Canada will continue to monitor post-Brexit developments closely in light of our economic and political interests.

Supplementary messages

Canada looks forward to maintaining and growing our relationships with both the U.K. and the EU.
Canada urges both the U.K. and the EU to reach an agreement on its future relationship as soon as possible to avoid disruption for all stakeholders.
To ensure undisrupted continuity of its relations with the U.K., Canada has been working to transition certain Canada-EU agreements into Canada-U.K. agreements.
Post Brexit transition period, any future Canada-U.K. trade agreement would take into account the outcomes of U.K.-EU trade negotiations, as well as any changes to U.K. domestic approaches.

Update

The U.K. has ceased to be a Member State and no longer has representation in the EU’s institutions since February 1, 2020. The U.K. has entered into a transition period lasting until December 31, 2020 (with a possibility of a one-off extension for one or two years, although PM Johnson has said there will be no extension) during which the U.K. will be bound by the entire body of EU law, including any new laws that enter into force during that period. It will also continue to contribute to the EU budget and be bound by the EU’s four freedoms, i.e. freedom of movement for people, goods, capital, and services. In return, the U.K. retains unfettered access to the EU single market and customs union for the duration of the transition period.

It is hoped that during the transition period, the EU and the U.K. will be able to finalize the terms of their future relationship, including in areas such as trade, air transport, data sharing, and security cooperation. The U.K. and the EU have each published their negotiating objectives ahead of talks, scheduled to begin on March 2, 2020.

Supporting facts and figures

Canada has a strong and enduring relationship with the U.K. and collaborates with them on most international issues and priorities.
Most recently, U.K. Secretary of State Dominic Raab visited Canada in August 2019 and January 2020.
Two-way merchandise trade between Canada and the U.K. amounted to $25.51 billion in 2018.
The U.K. is a key destination for Canadian merchandise exports, mainly gold (duty-free) and natural resources
The U.K. is Canada’s fourth most important source of foreign direct investment, valued at $50,35 billion in 2018.
Canada stock of FDI in the U.K was valued at $109,3 billion in 2018.

Canada–CARICOM relations

Canada has strong historical ties with CARICOM countries through our shared values, people-to-people connections and partnerships, and has increased its engagement with CARICOM in recent years.
My participation at the recent CARICOM Heads of Government meeting reinforced current commitments to the region, including through $61.5 million in support of CARICOM priorities in the areas of climate and economic resilience, technical assistance and capacity building, and educational exchanges.
Canada has committed to further strengthen these relationships, and Prime Minister Trudeau has invited CARICOM Heads of Government to Ottawa, for a Canada-CARICOM Leaders Summit in spring 2020.

Supplementary messages

Canada recognizes the vulnerability of Caribbean states and we collaborate with CARICOM member states on a number of priorities throughout the region, including climate and economic resilience, trade and investment, regional security and gender equality.
The new $61.5M support complements Canada’s existing commitment including through the $100M Pledge for Caribbean Reconstruction and Resilience, which seeks to build economic and climate resilience in the region.
Canada is committed to ongoing advocacy for Caribbean interests through international financial institutions and multilateral organizations, such as the International Monetary Fund, World Bank, and Inter-American Development Bank.

Supporting facts and figures

New Commitments: As part of the announced $61.5M support, Canada committed $20M Canada-CARICOM Climate Adaptation Fund; $20M to sustainable agriculture through WUSC; $6M for the funding of more than 50 small and medium-sized Blue economy enterprises; $5M for technical assistance and Capacity building to enable Canada to respond quickly to the needs and priorities of CARICOM members; and $2M to support a review of the efficiency and effectiveness of CARICOM’s institutions.
People to People: Close to 4 million Canadians visit the Caribbean annually, contributing to the region’s tourism industry. There are also significant numbers of Caribbean travellers that come to Canada. In 2018, 36,000 work permits were issued under the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP), and 7,325 study permits were issued to Caribbean citizens.
Trade: Canada’s two-way services trade with CARICOM members was $4.04B in 2018 ($1.04B in exports and $3.00B in imports) and Canada’s two-way merchandise trade with CARICOM members was $2.07B in 2019 ($991.7M in exports and $1.08B in imports).
Security Programming: Since April 2015, GAC’s Anti-Crime Capacity Building Program has disbursed more than $16.8M in programming to the Caribbean.

China

China consular cases

Deeply concerned by arbitrary detention/arrest of Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor - we call for their immediate release.
Extremely concerned China applies death penalty for Mr. Schellenberg and Mr. Fan. Oppose death penalty in all cases, everywhere and seek clemency for Canadians concerned.
Continue to raise cases with China at highest levels. Continue to provide consular services to individuals and their families.
Due to Privacy Act, no further information can be disclosed.

Mr. Huseyincan Celil

Canada is deeply concerned by the detention of Mr. Huseyincan Celil and we continue to raise this case at senior levels.
We continue to call upon the Chinese government to give Canadian officials consular access in order to determine Mr. Celil's well-being.
Due to provisions of the Privacy Act, no further information can be disclosed.

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Canada’s approach to China, including Canada’s One China Policy

Top priority: release of Michael Spavor and Michael Kovrig; clemency for Robert Schellenberg; restoring trade access.
Standing up for Canadian values and interests (including human rights and maintaining Canada’s One China Policy), without escalating tensions.
Pursuing economic opportunities and cooperation on global issues (e.g. climate change, health).
Working to re-frame bilateral relationship – cannot return to state of relations pre-December 10, 2018 (arbitrary detentions of Michael Spavor/Michael Kovrig).

Supplementary messages

Ongoing work recognizes changes in Chinese government’s approach under President Xi as well as shift in Canadian public opinion towards China.
Need to increase collaboration with allies/partners to defend rules-based international order.
Special parliamentary committee on Canada-China relations has role to play in shaping relationship and informing Canadian public about China.
Canada’s One China Policy forms the basis of diplomatic relations with the PRC with the flexibility to maintain valuable ties with Taiwan.

Update

GAC officials, in consultation with other departments, continue to examine Canada’s approach to relations with China.

Supporting facts and figures

You noted the need to explore a “new framework” for Canada-China relations during your December 1, 2019, interview with Radio-Canada.
As you subsequently wrote in your January 20 letter to the Special Parliamentary Committee on Canada-China Relations, the context for our bilateral relation has changed.
The ongoing bilateral crisis highlights the broader dynamics in the Canada-China relationship.
China is Canada’s third largest trade partner (at 5% of exports), and offers further economic opportunities. It is also an essential partner in the global commons (e.g. climate change, health, finance).
At the same time, China poses challenges to Canada’s national and economic security, as well as core democratic values.
This includes adopting an assertive foreign policy under President Xi, as demonstrated by its use of aggressive political and economic levers to punish Canada (as it has done with other countries).
China is also making efforts to reform the rules-based international order in ways inimical to Canada’s interests, or to flout these norms when irreconcilable (e.g. South China Sea, human rights).
These developments, amid a broader challenging geo-strategic context, requires a re-assessment and reframing of Canada’s approach to China.

Human rights and religious freedom in China

While China’s economic growth has led to overall improvements in the standard of living, there continues to be a worrying decline in civil and political rights, including in Hong Kong. Freedom of religion or belief is also challenged.
Canada is deeply concerned about the ongoing repression of human rights defenders, journalists, lawyers, academics, activists, ethnic minorities, religious and vulnerable groups, including women and girls, and LGBTI community members.
Publicly and privately, as well as in bilateral and multilateral fora, we continue to call on Chinese authorities to uphold international human rights obligations.

Supplementary messages

Canada is deeply concerned by the credible reports of the mass detention, repressive surveillance, separation of children from parents, under the pretext of countering extremism, which affects Uyghurs and other ethnic and religious minorities in Xinjiang.
Canada remains deeply concerned about the human rights situation affecting Tibetans, including restrictions on freedom of expression and freedom of religion or belief, as well as the protection of linguistic and cultural rights.
Canada is concerned by the lack of concrete political measures to address legitimate concerns expressed by the Hong Kong population.
Canada continues to support the right of peaceful protest and Hong Kong’s high degree of autonomy and freedoms under the Basic Law and the “One Country, Two Systems” framework.

Update

Canada continues to raise human rights concerns as a priority in its engagement with China. Some key issues are the human rights situations in Hong Kong, Xinjiang and Tibet.

Supporting facts and figures

In each of the ten years Pew Research Center has been tracking religious restrictions (2007 to 2016), China has been near the top of the list of the most restrictive governments. In 2016, the most recent year for which the Center has religious restrictions data, the Chinese government was the most restrictive toward religious groups among all the 198 countries included in the study (it scored 8.8 out of 10 on the Government Restrictions Index).
Freedom House’s 2019 Freedom in the World Report ranked China as ‘not free’ with a score of 11/100. The same report ranked Hong Kong at 59/100 and Tibet at 1/100.
The UN Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (CERD) raised its concerns over the human rights situation in Xinjiang in August 2018. Canada has made several statements on Xinjiang in UN fora, including recently with 22 countries during the Third Committee dialogue of the UN CERD in New York, in October 2019. The Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs have spoken out in support of the human rights of Uyghurs.
From June to December, the Hong Kong police fired 10,000 rounds of tear gas and over 4,000 people were arrested, with accusation of police brutality by Amnesty International and the media.
Canada issued a joint statement on the situation in Hong Kong with the UK on May 30, 2019 and a separate national statement on June 12. On August 17, Canada issued a statement with the EU, calling on all parties to reject violence and take urgent steps to de-escalate the situation.

Background

Ethnic minorities, human rights defenders and religious groups face repression and persecution from Chinese authorities. In particular, ethnic and religious minorities in Xinjiang and Tibet face increasing restrictions against their rights and freedoms (religion, language, culture, expression and movement) and are subject to forced patriotic education. There are credible reports that as many as one million or more Uyghurs and other Muslims are being detained, because of their ethnicity or religion. Large-scale protests erupted in Hong Kong in 2019 in response to changes proposed by the Hong Kong authorities to its extradition laws that would have allowed case-by-case extradition to all jurisdictions, including mainland China. Despite the announcement that the extradition bill was suspended on June 15, 2019 and fully withdrawn on October 23, protests have continued with broader demands and increasingly violent clashes between a minority of protesters and security forces.

Meng Wanzhou arrest and u.s. extradition request

Canada is a rule of law country. There was no political interference in the arrest of Ms. Meng Wanzhou, nor in the decision to issue an Authority to Proceed.
Extradition in Canada is conducted in conformity with the Extradition Act, our extradition treaties and the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
Ms. Meng was fairly treated during her arrest in December 2018 and is currently afforded a fair process before the courts, represented by her own counsel.

Supplementary messages

Canada respects its international legal commitments, including by honouring its extradition treaty with the United States.
The rule of law is fundamental to all free societies; we will defend and uphold this principle.
Canada is grateful to those who have spoken in support of the rule of law as fundamental to free societies.
We share with our partners the conviction that the rule of law is not a choice: it is the bedrock of democracy. Canada will not compromise nor politicize the rule of law and due process.

Update

Ms. Meng’s double criminality hearing occurred from Jan 20 to 24, 2020.

For Canada to extradite an individual, the foreign charges must amount to a criminal offence in Canada (dual criminality).

The Attorney General of Canada argued that the U.S. extradition request emphasizes that Ms. Meng’s actions in the U.S. constitute fraud and therefore, double criminality exists as her actions would be considered illegal pursuant to the Criminal Code in Canada.

Ms. Meng’s defence argues that the focus of the extradition request is on sanctions violations, which do not apply in Canada, so double criminality is not present.

Justice Heather Holmes, the B.C. Supreme Court Judge presiding over the double criminality hearing, has reserved decision: the timing of her decision is at her discretion.

If the judge decides that the conditions for double criminality are fulfilled, then hearings will proceed. If the judge finds that there is no double criminality, Ms. Meng would be free to go. The Attorney General of Canada would have the option to appeal the court’s decision.

Ms. Meng’s extradition process will also include a hearing on a defence motion regarding abuse of process, and a committal hearing: both are expected to take place later this year. From the day of her arrest, Ms. Meng has had full access to Chinese consular assistance as well as her lawyers.

5G review

5G technology has raised some serious questions about security; the government is carefully examining the security challenges and potential threats involved in 5G technology, while recognizing the importance for continued economic development.
The Government’s technical, economic and security experts at the Departments of Public Safety, Innovation, Science and Economic Development, Global Affairs and Defence are all involved in the current review.
Canada views this issue as an important element within the context of our key bilateral relationships, in particular with the United States; ensuring Canada’s 5G technology is compatible with U.S. and allied telecommunications systems is key to securing our shared critical infrastructure and advancing our economic interests.

Supplementary messages

5G technology will enhance our way of life and change how we do business.
Protecting the critical systems and infrastructure Canadians rely on every day is a major priority of the Government of Canada and protecting telecommunications equipment and services from cyber threats is particularly important.
The Government of Canada takes the security of Canada’s telecommunications networks seriously.

Update

The security of 5G wireless systems has been at the forefront of domestic and international media stories. Canada’s Five Eyes partners have all made public announcements on how they plan to protect 5G wireless telecommunications networks. The United States has been the most vocal on this issue, strongly encouraging countries to carefully weigh the security considerations of 5G technology. On 28 January 2020, the United Kingdom (UK) announced that high risk vendors would be excluded from the sensitive elements of their networks, and limited to a minority presence in the less sensitive elements of its networks.

Canada-China agriculture trade

Regaining full market access for Canadian canola seed a top priority for the Government of Canada.
The pork and beef export issue with China has been resolved; the Canadian Food Inspection Agency resumed issuing export certificates as of November 5.
The Government is closely monitoring economic developments related to the COVID-19 outbreak, including the impact on Canada’s agriculture exports to China.

Supplementary messages

Canola

The next set of technical discussions planned for early 2020 will be postponed due to the outbreak of COVID-19.

Meat (including pork and beef)

The Government of Canada welcomed the news last November that Canadian pork and beef exports to China have resumed.

COVID-19 and Impact on Agriculture Trade

The outbreak is affecting consumer demand in China.
A number of agriculture exports have been affected – in particular: live lobsters; other seafood, including crab; and meat.

RESPONSIVE – if asked about the impact of the U.S.-China Phase One deal on Canadian agriculture exports

Concerned that some commitments promote a return to managed trade.
We are working to evaluate its total impact on Canada’s agriculture sector.
Canada will continue to closely monitor developments in the U.S.-China trade relationship.

Background

Canada-China Trade: China is Canada’s third-largest trading partner, after the U.S. and the EU (in 2019, 75.4% of Canada’s total exports went to the U.S., 8.1% to the EU, and 3.9% to China). In 2019, two-way merchandise trade between Canada and China fell slightly to $98.2 billion ($23.3 billion in Canadian exports and $75 billion in imports). Top exports were wood pulp, motor cars and vehicles for transporting persons, iron ores and concentrates, and copper ores and concentrates. Top imports from China included electronic machinery and equipment, data processing machinery, furniture, and toys. Canadian merchandise trade deficit with China increased by 8.1 percent from $47.9 billion in 2018 to $51.7 billion in 2019.

Canola:Canada’s canola seed exports to China have since fallen by 70% from January to December 2019, compared to the same period in 2018. WTO consultations took place on October 28, 2019. Face-to-face technical meetings to discuss China’s canola seed quarantine and inspection methodology took place in Beijing from December 18-20, 2019. Canada is assessing the information provided by China and considering next steps, including at the WTO. The next set of technical discussions set to take place in early 2020 are likely to be postponed due to the outbreak of COVID-19.

Pork and Beef: Despite the June 25 to November 5 pause in meat shipments to China, 2019 was an unprecedented year for Canadian pork exports to China with exports increasing 28.1%, becoming Canada’s 15th largest export to China.On November 5, 2019, China advised that it would once again accept export certificates to eligible establishments for compliant beef and pork products processed on or after November 5, resulting in the resumption of trade.

China-U.S. “Phase One” Trade Deal: The “Phase One” deal entered into force on February 14, 2020. The deal includes a chapter on agriculture and food trade, as well as chapters on intellectual property (IP), technology transfer, financial services, macroeconomic policy and exchange rates, expanding trade, and dispute resolution.

COVID-19 Economic Impacts: It is difficult to estimate the overall commercial impact of the outbreak on Canadian agriculture exports to China. Impacted agriculture sectors include live lobster; other seafood, including crabs; and meat, due to severe limitations of port operating capacity and consumer demand in China.

Regional maritime tensions

Canada remains concerned by tensions associated with territorial and maritime disputes in the East and South China Seas, including recently off the coast of Vietnam and Indonesia.
Canada opposes unilateral actions that escalate tensions and undermine stability and the rules-based international order, such as the threat or use of force, large-scale land reclamation and building of outposts on disputed features.

Supplementary messages

Since 2016, Canada and its G7 partners have consistently expressed their opposition to unilateral actions that escalate regional tensions and undermine regional stability in the South and East China Seas.
Canada generally does not take positions with respect to foreign maritime disputes. However, we have spoken on the issue in multilateral forums and supported language in negotiated G7 statements that emphasize the importance of respecting the international rules-based order, most recently at the G7 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in April 2019.
Canada supports lawful commerce, navigation and overflight rights in accordance with international law, including in the South China Sea. Canada stands ready to contribute to initiatives that build confidence and help restore trust in the region.
We urge all parties to live up to previous commitments, including those made in the 2002 Declaration of Conduct for the Parties in the South China Sea and to demilitarize disputed features.

Update

In recent years, Beijing has pursued a more assertive policy to defend its claims in the South China Sea (SCS) and East China Sea (ECS) through persistent incursions by Chinese coast guard and militia fishing vessels in disputed waters, including off the coasts of Indonesia, Japan and Vietnam. Tensions between the U.S. and China have escalated concurrently, as the U.S. has increased the frequency of its “Freedom of Navigation Operations” (FONOPs) to challenge China’s claims. Canada does not have a FONOPs program and has never participated in a U.S. FONOP. However, Canadian navy ships regularly traverse the SCS and ECS when deployed in the Asia-Pacific and operate in areas where the freedom of navigation regime applies.

Supporting facts and figures

With over $5 trillion of the world's trade passing through the SCS annually, the disputes are threatening regional stability and security, with the potential to disrupt the global economy. The SCS is also rich in fish stocks and oil and gas reserves, fueling competition over fishing rights and offshore energy exploration.

Background

China, Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Vietnam and Taiwan have competing maritime and territorial claims in the SCS. Indonesia, while not a claimant, is affected by China’s claims which run through its territorial waters near the Natuna Islands. In the ECS, the Senkaku Islands (called the Diaoyu by China), which are controlled by Japan but also claimed by China, have been a point of significant tension between the two regional powers.

China's claims in the SCS are often characterized by a "nine-dash line," which covers over 80 percent of the SCS, and are part of its efforts to secure its periphery. China has now constructed seven significant military bases on disputed features in the SCS, including the construction of airstrips capable of supporting fighter aircraft and strategic bombers.

Unilateral actions in the SCS, such as China’s large-scale land reclamation and the building of outposts, are eroding the rules-based international order. As a Pacific nation, it is in our national interest to maintain the open and accessible nature of this maritime artery as Canada continues to expand its commercial engagement across Southeast Asia. Vietnam will take over chairmanship of ASEAN in 2020 and will likely use this opportunity to highlight concerns regarding China’s actions in the SCS.

Consular cases

Closely monitoring developments in this case.
Providing consular assistance to individual and the family.
Due to Privacy Act, no further information can be disclosed.

Supplementary messages

Clemency - Canadians facing the death penalty abroad

Canada opposes the use of the death penalty in all cases, everywhere.
Canada abolished the death penalty, and we encourage the abolition of the death penalty internationally.
Canada will undertake clemency intervention in all cases of Canadians facing the death penalty in foreign jurisdictions.
In the interests of the individuals involved, the Government of Canada cannot comment or provide details on any specific case.

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Coronavirus

The health and safety of Canadians abroad and at home is our Government’s top priority.
Global Affairs Canada is monitoring closely the global spread of COVID-19 and we stand ready to provide consular assistance to Canadian citizens as required.
We continue to work with international, federal, provincial and territorial partners on a coordinated response to contain and respond to the novel coronavirus.

Supplementary messages

The risk of spread of this virus within Canada remains low at this time. We have measures in place to protect the health and safety of Canadians here at home and those who are returning.
In response to travel restrictions imposed in Hubei province, Global Affairs Canada secured chartered flights that took Canadians from Wuhan, China, to Canada.
We also secured a flight that took Canadians from the quarantined cruise ship in Japan to Canada.
We continue working with Japanese authorities, cruise ship representatives, and other partners to provide enhanced consular support to the Canadian passengers who remain in hospital in Japan.
As well, we remain in contact with Canadian families still confined in the province of Hubei.
We are working with provincial, territorial and local health authorities to ensure that the returning Canadians and their family members receive all the medical and ongoing support necessary to protect their health and the health and safety of all Canadians.
Canadians can obtain current information on the situation in specific countries through our Travel Advice and Advisories, and our Registration of Canadians Abroad service allows us to directly notify registered Canadians in affected areas of changes.
An Incident Response Group has been convened to discuss progress on the Government of Canada’s response to the novel coronavirus, including efforts to protect the health and safety of Canadians both at home and abroad.
We welcome the leadership of the World Health Organization and continue to work with our international partners to support the global initiatives that are helping to strengthen health systems and to improve early detection of viruses such as COVID-19.
In response to World Health Organization’s call for donations, Canada has provided approximately 16 tonnes of personal protective equipment, such as clothing, face shields, masks, goggles and gloves to China.

Update

A number of countries and territories have begun screening travellers arriving from China. Travellers returning to Canada from areas affected by the COVID-19 outbreak, particularly from Hubei Province, should be attentive to messages and instructions being provided at Canadian airports. They will be asked about their travel history and may be asked further questions about their health. The Public Health Agency of Canada is actively monitoring the situation and working with the WHO and other international partners to gather additional information.

There are several active travel health notices for COVID-19. Each country or area may have different levels of risk. These risk levels may change as the COVID-19 event evolves internationally.

In Iran, there are indicators that suggest widespread community transmission is occurring. Confirmed cases that are linked to Iran are being reported in other countries, including Canada, and more are expected. It is recommended that Canadians avoid all non-essential travel to Iran. Travellers who get ill while travelling in Iran may have limited access to timely and appropriate health care.

In South Korea, the risk to travellers is particularly high in the areas of Daegu and Cheongdo. These areas have reported widespread community transmission of the virus. It is recommended that Canadians avoid all non-essential travel to Daegu and Cheongdo.

It is also recommended that Canadians avoid all non-essential travel to northern Italy which includes the regions of Aosta Valley, Piedmont, Liguria, Lombardy, Emilia-Romagna, Veneto, Friuli-Venezia Giulia and Trentino-Alto Adige.

Supporting facts and figures

Globally, there are over 92,000 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in over 60 countries.
COVID-19 has claimed approximately 3,100 lives, most of whom were in the province of Hubei, China (2,800+).
Most cases are in China (80,150+), but in recent weeks growing numbers of cases have been identified in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (5,100+), Northern Italy (2,500+) and Iran (2,300+).
The public health risk within Canada remains low. As of March 3, Canada has 30 confirmed cases of COVID-19. (ON=20, BC=9, QC=1)
On February 7, 174 Canadian citizens arrived in Trenton from Wuhan, China on a plane chartered by the Government of Canada. As well, 39 Canadian citizens were repatriated on a US chartered plane.
On February 11, 130 Canadians and 56 accompanying family members travelled on the Canada’s second chartered plane from Wuhan, China, arrived at CFB Trenton.
On February 14, you and your Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, discussed China’s response to the ongoing coronavirus outbreak.
On February 21, 2020, 129 Canadians who were on board the Diamond Princess cruise ship returned to Canada on a Canadian government chartered aircraft. Upon arrival in Canada, passengers were assessed and place under a further 14-day period of quarantine.

CUSMA / aluminum / softwood lumber

Committed to the timely implementation of CUSMA.
Canada will work with the United States and Mexico to increase monitoring of offshore imports of aluminum into the NAFTA region.
Canada continues to defend exporters facing trade actions, including those in the softwood lumber sector.

Supplementary messages

CUSMA timelines for ratification

Ratification is a key priority and the Government is committed to working with parliamentarians and Canadian stakeholders to implement the Agreement as soon as possible.
NAFTA remains in place until the new Agreement enters into force.

Supply Management

The Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) preserves and maintains the supply management system.
Canada's dairy, poultry and egg farmers, their families and their communities can count on the full support of the Government.
The Government will continue to work in partnership with the entire supply-managed sector to address potential future impacts resulting from the CUSMA.
The Government is currently conducting public consultations on the allocation and administration of tariff rate quotas (TRQs) for dairy, poultry and egg products to ensure their continued efficiency and effectiveness.

Softwood Lumber

The imposition of any U.S. duties on imports of Canadian softwood lumber is unwarranted and unfair.
Canada is vigorously defending the interests of our softwood lumber industry, including through litigation under NAFTA Chapter 19 and before the WTO.
The preserved binational dispute resolution process for trade remedies under the CUSMA allows Canada to continue to bring challenges under U.S. law in order to seek the removal of unwarranted or unfair duties and their reimbursement to Canadian exporters.
Canada will only agree to a good deal, one that brings stability to the softwood lumber industry and that protects Canadian jobs.

Aluminum Import Monitoring

U.S. and Canadian industries have publicly expressed concern that offshore aluminum will move through Mexico before entering the U.S. in order to evade U.S. Section 232 tariffs.
Will work with the United States and Mexico to monitor offshore aluminum imports into North America and take enforcement action if necessary.
For example, if offshore aluminum imports are entering Canada or Mexico and then transhipped to the United States in order to avoid the U.S. aluminum tariff.

Background

CUSMA Implementation Timelines

Implementing legislation (Bill C-4) was introduced in the House of Commons on January 29, 2020. The Bill was studied by the Standing Committee on International Trade and reported back to the House of Commons on February 27, 2020. The report stage is expect to begin the week of March 9, during which amendments may be brought forward, debated and a voted upon. This will be followed by Third Reading debate and a vote. Once approved, the Bill will then be sent to the Senate. In the United States, President Trump signed the implementing legislation into law on January 29, 2020. In Mexico, the Senate approved the original Agreement and amending protocol on June 21 and December 12, 2019, respectively. Given the requirements of the U.S. certification process, Mexico intends to submit a package of legislative changes to Congress for review and approval before the end of the session on April 30, 2020.

Supply Management

Under the CUSMA, the Government maintained the three pillars of Canada's supply management system for dairy, poultry and eggs - production control, pricing mechanisms, and import control - despite strong U.S. attempts to dismantle them.

As part of the negotiated outcome, Canada agreed, among other things, to provide additional market access to the United States for certain dairy, poultry, and egg products; to ensure the elimination of current milk price classes 6 and 7, with certain products being priced using a new pricing formula; to monitor exports of skim milk powder, milk protein concentrates and infant formula and impose charges to exports that exceed certain thresholds; and to publish, notify and consult on various aspects of milk class pricing.

The Government is committed to supporting farmers and processors in the supply management sectors as they adjust to the loss of market share. Following the signing of CUSMA in the fall of 2018, the Government created working groups comprised of representatives from supply-managed industries. There were three working groups, two with dairy farmers and processors and one with poultry and egg farmers and processors. The Dairy Mitigation Working Group and the Poultry and Egg Working Group have concluded their discussions and their recommendations have been shared with the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food. The Dairy Strategic Working Group has met twice and its work remains ongoing.

In Budget 2019, the Government of Canada made a commitment to support farmers in the supply-managed sectors following ratifications of new trade agreements. Budget 2019 proposed up to $3.9 billion to support eligible dairy, poultry and egg producers for CETA and CPTPP.

On August 16, 2019 further details of the Budget 2019 commitments were announced, a total of $2 billion in compensation for dairy producers, including $345 million this fiscal year through the Dairy Direct Payment Program was announced. This amount includes the previously announced $250 million for the Dairy Farm Investment Program.

On February 14, 2020, Global Affairs Canada launched a second phase of public consultations on policy options related to the allocation and administration of TRQs for dairy, poultry and egg products.

The department currently administers 38 TRQs for supply-managed commodities under various trade agreements. Following the implementation of the Canada-United-States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), this would increase to 54 TRQs.

Given the significant increase in TRQs, the department undertook a broad-based, two-phased, 18-month engagement exercise to hear from stakeholders.

The objective of the consultations is to create long-term policies to ensure the continued efficiency and effectiveness of Canada’s TRQs for these supply-managed products.

Softwood Lumber

Canada has three ongoing challenges under the original NAFTA Chapter 19 binational panel dispute settlement system related to U.S. trade remedy investigations on softwood lumber. Specifically, they are related to: 1) The U.S. Department of Commerce’s (Commerce) final countervailing duty determination on softwood lumber; 2) Commerce’s final anti-dumping duty determination on softwood lumber; and 3) The U.S. International Trade Commission’s (ITC) final determination of material injury on softwood lumber. Panels established under Chapter 19 review whether these determinations are consistent with U.S. trade law. On September 4, 2019, the Panel ruling on Canada’s injury challenge issued its decision, and found that several key issues that are central to the U.S. ITC’s determination of material injury were not based on substantial evidence, and were inconsistent with U.S. law. This decision, while not immediately putting an end to the punitive U.S. duties, was an important step in the right direction. On December 19, 2019, the ITC upheld its affirmative determination of material injury to the U.S. industry by providing new reasoning and analysis on some of the issues. Canada filed its submission challenging the redetermination before the same NAFTA Chapter 19 panel on February 6. The ITC and any participant filing in support of the determination on remand have until March 24 to respond. Canada and the U.S. continue to be engaged in discussions regarding panel composition for the countervailing and anti-dumping cases.

Aluminum Monitoring

Without an aluminum “smelted and poured” provision in CUSMA similar to steel, the Canadian aluminum industry is concerned that non-originating offshore aluminum will enter North America via Mexico and undermine the CUSMA 70% aluminum requirement for autos at the expense of U.S. and Canadian aluminum producers. While there has been no evidence of aluminum being transshipped into the U.S. through Mexico, industry is concerned that transshipment is a real threat and have called for Mexico to implement an aluminum import monitoring system. Canada will work with the United States and Mexico to monitor offshore aluminum imports into North America, with a focus on ensuring that such imports do not undermine measures such as the U.S. aluminum s. 232 tariff (Canada and Mexico are exempt from that tariff).

Export permits and LAVs

In November 2018, Canada announced a review of all arms exports to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
This review is still on-going and a final decision has not been made.
Since that announcement, no new export permits for items destined to Saudi Arabia have been issued.

Supplementary messages

In the context of the broader export permit review, a thorough assessment of the sale of Light Armoured Vehicles (LAVs) to Saudi Arabia is being conducted.
Canada has taken firm action to strengthen our export controls system by passing legislation that enshrines the United Nations Arms Trade Treaty (ATT) assessment criteria, including human rights, into our export laws.
Experts from across the Government of Canada evaluate every export permit application on a case-by-case basis to determine what the goods or technology will be used for, where they will be used and by whom, among other factors.
Consistent with Canada’s obligations under the ATT, and under the Export and Import Permits Act, I will deny any export permit application for goods or technology that is assessed as posing a substantial risk of being used to commit or facilitate any of the acts, offences or violations referred to in the ATT.

Update

The review of all arms exports to Saudi Arabia continues. It includes an assessment of the sale of LAVs to Saudi Arabia.

Supporting facts and figures

No valid export permits to Saudi Arabia have been suspended or cancelled.
Canadian companies holding valid permits to Saudi Arabia are still able to export.
Global Affairs Canada processes more than 7,000 permits annually.

Background

Canada’s export controls regime is set out in the Export and Import Permits Act (EIPA), which delegates to the Minister of Foreign Affairs wide discretionary powers to control the flow of goods and technology contained in specified lists (e.g. the Export Control List or ECL) created under the EIPA.

Canada’s export controls are not meant to hinder international trade, but to regulate and impose restrictions on exports in response to clear policy objectives. These objectives include ensuring that Canadian export controls are consistent with Canada’s foreign and defence policies, including respect for human rights and international peace and security.

The ECL includes military, dual-use and strategic goods and technology that are controlled for export from Canada to other countries. The ECL is comprised of eight groups of goods and technology that are based primarily on Canada’s participation in multilateral export control and non-proliferation regimes: the Wassenaar Arrangement, the Nuclear Suppliers Group, the Missile Technology Control Regime and the Australia Group.

The Government committed to further strengthening the rigour and transparency of Canada’s export controls. To this end, Canada amended the EIPA to allow Canada to accede to the Arms Trade Treaty (ATT). These amendments and associated regulations (on brokering and transparency) came into force on Sept. 1, 2019. Canada officially became a State Party to the ATT on Sept. 17, 2019.

Former Bill C-47 created a new legal requirement that the Minister of Foreign Affairs must deny export permits applications for sales of arms or munitions if he or she has determined that there is a substantial risk that the export would be used to undermine peace and security; to seriously violate international human rights law or international humanitarian law; to further international organized crime or terrorism; or to commit or facilitate serious acts of gender-based violence or serious acts of violence against women and children.

Feminist foreign policy

Canada has made respect for human rights, gender equality, women’s empowerment, inclusion, and diversity core priorities at home and abroad.
Under our feminist foreign policy, Canada aims to support gender equality, women’s empowerment, and inclusion in our work on trade, security, diplomacy, and international assistance.
During my speech at the Montreal Council on Foreign Relations (CORIM) on 21 February, I committed to strengthening the foundations of this policy by working with civil society to launch a white paper on Canada’s feminist foreign policy.

Supplementary messages

Our feminist foreign policy is rooted in the conviction that all people should enjoy the same human rights and the same opportunities to succeed.
Advancing gender equality and inclusion is an effective way to foster prosperity, create lasting peace, achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goals, and promote human rights.
When all people, regardless of their gender, can fully benefit from and participate in economic, political, social, and cultural life, we build safer, more prosperous, and more sustainable communities and countries.
This is why Canada is moving forward decisively on a feminist agenda at home and abroad. Our international efforts are rooted in domestic commitments and actions towards achieving gender equality and inclusion.

Update

Departmental preparations for civil society engagement are ongoing further to your commitment enunciated during your February 21st speech at the Montreal Council on Foreign Relations.

Supporting facts and figures

Canada’s feminist foreign policy is being operationalized through a suite of complementary international policies, programs, and initiatives. This includes Canada’s:

Trade Diversification Strategy, with its Inclusive Approach to Trade;
Feminist International Assistance Policy;
National Action Plan on Women, Peace, and Security, supported by the Ambassador for Women, Peace, and Security, Jacqueline O’Neill;
Defence Policy, “Strong, Secure, Engaged”; and
the Elsie Initiative for Women in Peace Operations.

Background

Canada has positioned its feminist foreign policy (FFP) as an effective approach to address its overarching international objectives of supporting lasting peace and security, fostering sustainable development and inclusive economic growth, achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030, and upholding progressive values. While gender equality and inclusion have long been an important aspect of Canadian foreign policy, a feminist foreign policy has gone further by applying a feminist lens across all of Canada’s international policy, advocacy and program efforts in trade, security, diplomacy, and international assistance. This means that policy and program efforts should focus on addressing fundamental structural and normative barriers preventing gender equality and inclusion, taking into account the needs of those most affected by multiple forms of discrimination. Some highlights of Canada’s achievements include: hosting the 2019 Women Deliver Conference; integrating gender equality in all areas of G7 work during our 2018 Presidency; appointing an Ambassador for WPS; including Trade and Gender chapters and gender-responsive provisions in our free trade agreements; and continuing to invest in our Feminist International Assistance Policy.

Incidents in Cuba affecting Canadian diplomats

Health, safety, and security of diplomatic staff and families are our top priority.
Continuing to investigate the potential causes of unusual health symptoms reported by some of our diplomatic staff and their dependents.
No evidence to suggest that Canadian travelers to Cuba are at risk.

Supplementary messages

The Government of Canada continues to collaborate with Cuban authorities to identify the cause.
As a preventive measure Global Affairs Canada designated the Embassy of Canada in Havana as an "unaccompanied post" and all dependents of Canadian diplomatic staff have been repatriated.
In January 2019, Global Affairs Canada significantly reduced the number of Canada-based staff at our embassy in Havana.
These decisions reflect the priority the government places on the health and safety of employees and their families.

Update

In November 2019 and March 2018, the Department received the results of environmental assessments of diplomatic staff quarters in Havana. This assessment did not indicate anything that could point to a cause.
Global Affairs Canada maintains a strict security and health protocol to respond immediately to any unusual events or health symptoms affecting Canadian diplomats posted to Cuba.

Supporting facts and figures

Canada currently has 15 medically confirmed cases.
No additional confirmed medical cases have been reported since January 2019.
The Government of Canada continues to investigate the potential causes of unusual health symptoms reported by some Canadian diplomatic staff and dependents posted to Havana, Cuba.
There is a government-wide effort to address this situation, including an ongoing investigation in cooperation with Cuban authorities and our U.S. counterparts.
All Canadian diplomats and their families who reported unusual symptoms have received medical testing and medical monitoring in Canada as required.
Canadian medical specialists from Dalhousie University are also involved in the evaluation of affected Canadians. A definite cause remains unknown and additional research is ongoing.
In November 2019 and March 2018, the Department received the results of environmental assessments of diplomatic staff quarters in Havana. This assessment did not indicate anything that could point to a cause.
Global Affairs Canada maintains a strict security and health protocol to respond immediately to any unusual events or health symptoms affecting Canadian diplomats posted to Cuba.

Canada-India bilateral relations

Canada is committed to pursuing an ambitious agenda with India in areas including trade and investment, climate change, peace and security, and the rules-based international order.
We have a growing bilateral trade relationship, with two-way trade reaching $10.24 billion in 2019 and two-way investment surpassing $45 billion, for a total commercial partnership estimated at $60 billion.
Our people-to-people ties with India are strong and robust. There are over four times as many Indian students in Canada compared to 2014 and India is now Canada’s largest source country across most immigration categories.

Supplementary messages

Canada continues to closely follow developments around the Citizenship Amendment Act and is concerned by the outbreak of apparent inter-communal violence in northeast Delhi that has resulted in multiple casualties. We appeal for calm and for perpetrators of violence to be brought to justice. [REDACTED]
We are closely following developments in Jammu and Kashmir and remain concerned about the risk of escalation, infringements on civil rights and reports of detentions.
We call on all parties to maintain peace and stability along the Line of Control and in the region.

Update

The visit of Indian Foreign Minister Jaishankar to Ottawa on December 19-20, 2019, was an opportunity to deepen the bilateral relationship across trade and investment, gender equality, environment and climate change, and peace and security.

Supporting facts and figures

The Canada-India commercial partnership is estimated to be worth $60 billion and rising. 2019 was a record year with two-way trade reaching $10.24 billion, up 77% since 2013, and trade in services up from $441 million in 2009 to over $1 billion in 2018 (the latest year for which statistics are available). While official two-way direct investment surpassed $4.8 billion in 2018, Canadian portfolio investments in India are now estimated to exceed $45 billion.
In education, India has become the largest source of foreign students. The number of Indian students in Canada rose from 49,000 in 2015 to 220,000 in 2019.
Meanwhile, tourism numbers have more than doubled from 154,000 in 2013 to 350,000 last year.
India is also the number one source country for new permanent residents to Canada. In 2019, over 74,000 Indian citizens were able to call Canada “home”.
Even though Canada’s bilateral development program in India came to an end in 2006, Global Affairs Canada continues to provide assistance to India through multilateral organisations ($12.7 million in 2017-2018) and partnerships between Indian and Canadian NGOs ($80,000 in 2017-2018). Other government departments and agencies, including Finance Canada and the International Development Research Centre, provided $48.7 million in assistance to India in 2017-2018.

International security, democracy and human rights

Canada’s contribution to UN peace operations

Canada is delivering on the commitments we made in Vancouver in 2017. We continue to work with the UN to determine how and where we can most effectively contribute.
Reform and modernization of peace operations, including through the Action for Peacekeeping initiative, is essential. UN missions must be mandated and resourced to address increasingly complex security threats and challenges, and to contribute to sustainable peace.
Canada is actively championing efforts to advance conflict prevention, political dialogue, conflict resolution, peacebuilding, and the Women, Peace and Security agenda.

Supplementary messages

We must be bold in our efforts to reform and modernize UN peace operations. This will require creativity, flexibility, and a readiness to work across the UN system to address the long-standing obstacles preventing more effective integration and collaboration in UN system, and among Member States.
Missions must be properly mandated, resourced, equipped and trained to maximize flexibility and agility. We must encourage the emergence of a results-focused, evidence-driven approach that prioritizes inclusive, conflict-sensitive political solutions. To do so, peace operations must consistently work with development, human rights, and humanitarian actors in government and civil society.
Increasing uniformed women’s meaningful participation in UN peace operations is an important goal in itself. Through the Elsie Initiative, Canada is developing and testing innovative approaches and mobilizing international action to accelerate progress in increasing women’s meaningful participation in UN peace operations.

Update

The effectiveness of UN peace operations is being undermined by persistent resource shortfalls and gaps in mission-critical capabilities. UN missions are struggling to achieve coherent whole-of-system approaches that make best use of UN resources across missions, programs, funds and agencies. The UNSG is appealing to Member States to help address the most urgent needs.

Supporting facts and figures

Funding: Since the 2017 Peacekeeping Ministerial, Canada has invested approximately $60M to support UN peace operations reform. Canada’s support addresses critical capability gaps identified by the UN including medical, French-language, analytical, counter-IEDs, leadership and women in peace operations domains. $32 million of this is specifically dedicated to support UN peace operations’ capacity building and training. These investments complement in-kind contributions being made by Canada to support training and capacity building.
Budget: Canada is the 9th largest contributor of assessed contributions to the UN peacekeeping budget, and one of only a small group of countries that pays its bills on time, in full, and without conditions. Canada is also the largest single donor of voluntary extra-budgetary funds to the UN Department of Peace Operations.
Despite resource pressures, missions are being tasked with expanding mandates in increasingly complex and high-threat environments. Resource constraints have forced missions to rely on less predictable, less sustainable, voluntary extra-budgetary funding for mission-critical functions.
Deployments: Canada ranks 73rd in personnel deployments, with just 45 police and military personnel deployed in support of across seven UN missions: BINUH (Haiti), MINUSCA (CAR), MINUSMA (Mali), MONUSCO (DRC), UNFICYP (Cyprus), UNMISS (South Sudan) and UNTSO (Middle East). Women comprise 33% of Canadian police and 21% of military personnel deployed on UN missions, exceeding the annual targets set out in the UN’s Uniformed Gender Parity Strategy for 2020 (22% for Individual Police Officers, and 17% for military observers and staff officers).
Special Committee on Peace Operations (C34): As chair of the C34, Canada is leading a multi-country effort to operationalize the A4P initiative and align Member State policy recommendations with A4P reform objectives.
Peacebuilding Commission: As chair of the UN PBC, Canada has an opportunity to strengthen the mandate and capacity of the PBC and UN Secretariat to provide advice on UN coherence and essential capacities for UNSC decisions on mission mandates.

Background

At the November 2017 UN Peacekeeping Ministerial (UNPKM) in Vancouver, Canada made several commitments to UN peacekeeping. Subsequently, at the 2019 UNPKM in New York, Canada confirmed its intent to honour its outstanding commitments. Further, Canada announced $45.37 million in new support for UN peace operations.

Military capabilities: Canada promoted the “smart pledge” approach at the 2017 UNPKDM, which encourages Member States to work together to make critical capabilities available to the UN on a more reliable, sustained and predictable basis through contingent rotations and burden-sharing.

From 15 August 2018 to 31 August 2019, Canada deployed an Aviation Task Force (ATF) in support to MINUSMA. Canada’s ATF was composed of two Chinook heavy lift helicopters, four Griffon armed escort helicopters and 250 military personnel. The ATF’s main tasks were to provide 24/7 aeromedical evacuation capability to MINUSMA in the region of Gao, as well as logistics and transport support. Romania assumed these ATF tasks in the fall of 2019.

Canada currently provides a military aircraft and crew on an episodic basis to the UN Regional Service Centre Entebbe (RSCE) in Uganda to transport troops, equipment and supplies to select UN missions in Africa (UNMISS and MONUSCO). Canada currently provides the UN with one week of flying time per month. The feasibility of transitioning to a full-time TAL is under review.

Canada committed to deploy a Quick Reaction Force (QRF) built around a mechanized infantry company and associated enablers. Officials are reviewing potential options for a QRF deployment that responds to UN needs.

Police Deployments: In July 2019, Canada announced its contribution of up to 20 police officers to Mali, in support of MINUSMA and the EU’s civilian capacity-building mission. As of February 2020, 17 Canadian police are serving in Mali: 15 officers (6 women, 9 men) with MINUSMA and 2 officers (2 men) with the EU mission. Three additional officers (3 men) serve in the UN mission in Haiti, BINUH.

Innovative Training: Canada is working with the UN and other partners to match available resources with needs, leveraging GAC programmatic resources, as well as civilian, police and military experts personnel.

The Vancouver Principles (VPs): The VPs are a set of political commitments by Member States, intended to prevent the recruitment and use of child soldiers in the context of UN peace operations. As of February 2020, 95 Member States have endorsed the VPs. Canada developed Implementation Guidance for the VPs (IGVP) to assist Member States in developing national policies, procedures and doctrine to operationalize the VPs. The IGVP was launched by the Minister of National Defence on 25 June 2019.

The Elsie Initiative for Women in Peace Operations:

The Elsie Initiative is a five-year pilot project to increase the meaningful participation of uniformed women in UN peace operations, specifically in police and military roles. Significant progress has been made in designing and implementing the Initiative, including: establishing bilateral partnerships with the Ghana Armed Forces and Zambia Police Service; working with the UN to launch the UN’s Elsie Initiative Fund for Women in Peace Operations, which has received 30 letters of interest and contributions of over $20M USD since March 2019 (Canada has provided $15M CAD); supporting the development of a ground-breaking barrier assessment methodology for police and military organizations; and providing $4.5M to help the UN create more receptive environments for peacekeepers, and to implement its Uniformed Gender Parity Strategy.

Atip protected background

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Canada’s foreign policy on security, human rights and democracy

Human rights are a pillar of the rules-based international order, contributing to conflict prevention and sustainable development but are under attack on a number of fronts.
All human rights are universal, indivisible, interdependent, and interrelated. The protection and promotion of human rights is an integral part of Canada’s constructive engagement in the world.
Canada promotes and defends democracy internationally, in the face of unprecedented challenges.

Supplementary messages

The Office of Human Rights, Freedoms and Inclusion (OHRFI) administers a $7.5 million/year programming envelope to protect human rights and to promote inclusion, respect for diversity, and freedom of religion of belief.
Canada is taking action, with our new “Promoting and Protecting Democracy Fund” investing $10 million a year in international initiatives.
Global Affairs Canada has taken leadership of the Rapid Response Mechanism (RRM) to support Canada’s objectives related to defending democracy from foreign threats.
The establishment of a Canadian Centre for Peace, Order and Good Government will strengthen Canada’s ability to share Canadian expertise globally with those seeking to build peace, advance justice, promote human rights and democracy and deliver good governance.
The promotion and protection of human rights, including freedom of religion or belief, is an integral part of Canada's constructive engagement in the world. As part of Canada’s commitment to human rights at home and abroad, the Office of Human Rights, Freedoms and Inclusion (OHRFI) was created in May 2016. This Office expands on the work of the former Office of Religious Freedom, taking a comprehensive approach to enhance our efforts to champion peaceful pluralism, respect for diversity, and human rights as a whole, including freedom of religion or belief (FoRB).

[Additional Responsive if needed:]

The Office works closely with Canadian and international representatives from civil society, religious groups, academia, and NGOs, to best leverage Canada’s pluralist experience as a multicultural and multi-faith country in its efforts to promote inclusion, respect for diversity, and the protection of all human rights. To help inform our international advocacy efforts on FoRB, the Office regularly consults with Canadian religious and faith-based actors, as well as human rights organizations, in order better understand their concerns.

Supporting facts and figures

The Office of Human Rights, Freedoms and Inclusion (OHRFI) leads Canada's work to strengthen engagement on these issues in key multilateral organizations such as the UN General Assembly, the UN Human Rights Council, the OSCE, the OAS, and the G7.
It also represents Canada in governmental coalitions such as the Freedom Online Coalition, the Community of Democracies, the Equal Rights Coalition, and the International Contact Group on Freedom of Religion or Belief to defend and promote specific human rights and democracy issues.
The new Promoting and Protecting Democracy Fund will invest $10 million a year to support electoral processes and to strengthen democratic practice. The fund was established to augment, not replace, Canada’s existing programming. It has supported electoral systems and processes in Ethiopia and Bolivia.
Over the past year, RRM Canada provided unique insight on foreign interference online based on open source analytics, including the 2019 Ukrainian presidential election and EU parliamentary election.
Leveraging its open source analytical capacity, RRM Canada played a critical role in protecting Canada’s 2019 federal election from foreign interference and acting as an early warning system, as member of the SITE Task Force.

Background

Human rights are entwined with pressing global issues—among both their causes and effects. Migration is often driven by violations of rights, such as the rights to life, to security of person, or to an adequate standard of living. Emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence, while providing new opportunities, can also lead to violations and abuses of rights, such as freedom of expression. Counterterrorism measures are used by some regimes to justify or mask rights violations under the guise of “national security”. Climate change may threaten people’s economic, social and cultural rights, by creating shortages of food, water, and adequate housing.

Canada leads on UN human rights resolutions related to Iran; child, early and forced marriage; and violence against women. Canada has played a leadership role in protecting the rights of LGBTQ2 individuals, recently co-chairing the Equal Rights Coalition and hosting a conference on LGBTI Human Rights in Vancouver in 2018. In July 2019, Canada co-hosted, with the UK, the first Global Conference for Media Freedom in London focused on the protection of freedom of expression and the freedom of the press. Canada has committed to hosting a follow-up conference on media freedom in Quebec City in September 2020, and is planning a UN resolution on freedom of expression at the Human Rights Council.

Canada’s National Action Plan and Ambassador for women, peace and security (WPS)

Since the launch of Canada’s Second National Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security (WPS) in 2017, Canada has more than doubled its investments in WPS programming and is leading catalytic initiatives globally.
In June 2019, the Prime Minister appointed Jacqueline O’Neill as Canada’s 1st Ambassador for WPS to drive further Canadian leadership on WPS and enhance effective implementation of Canada's National Action Plan on WPS.
To date, the WPS Ambassador has engaged with stakeholders in Canada and abroad to raise awareness, build motivation and capacity, increase connections and coordination, and create an enabling environment for advancing the WPS agenda.

Supplementary messages

Canada's National Action Plan on WPS guides Canada’s development, humanitarian and peace and security efforts at home and abroad.
Canada is seizing new opportunities to lead global WPS initiatives that are accelerating the implementation of the WPS agenda.
For instance, Canada leads the global Call to Action on Protection from Gender-based Violence in Emergencies to transform the way gender-based violence is addressed in humanitarian emergencies.
Canada champions women’s full and equal participation in disarmament decision-making in the UN Secretary-General’s Disarmament Agenda.
In 2020, Canada is co-hosting with Uruguay the WPS Focal Points Network, a global grouping of senior officials responsible for WPS implementation, with a focus on impact-driven action plans.

Update

The first annual report for Canada’s National Action Plan on WPS was tabled in Parliament in September 2018. The next report will be tabled in Parliament in April 2020. It will outline in detail the progress made to advance WPS in the last fiscal year (2018-19). The tabling of the report was delayed due to the election.

Canada’s WPS Ambassador, Jacqueline O’Neill, began her role in August 2019 and has spent the first months of the three-year mandate establishing the office as a key resource of the Government of Canada for enhancing the effective implementation of Canada’s National Action Plan on WPS. Ambassador O’Neill has provided recommendations and advice to the Prime Minister, Ministers, and Members of Parliament and the Senate on advancing WPS in Canada and abroad. She has met with all nine federal Action Plan partner departments and agencies at the Deputy Minister, senior management, and expert levels on ways to increase implementation of the Action Plan. Regular consultations with Canadian civil society have been instituted, and visits to countries (7) and multilateral organizations have been undertaken.

Supporting facts and figures

In fiscal year 2018-2019, Canada disbursed approximately $497 million in development, humanitarian and peace and security programming to advance the WPS agenda, as compared to $221 million in 2016, before the 2nd Action Plan was launched.
Canada helped increase the participation of women and girls in peace processes across five Iraqi provinces affected by Daesh, and contributed to the provision of legal and psychological support.
By supporting the offices of the African Union’s Special Envoy on WPS and the NATO Secretary General’s Special Representative for WPS, Canada contributed to deepened mainstreaming of WPS objectives in these critical organizations.
Canada's support to the Ujamaa Africa's Girls' Empowerment and Self-Defence program has empowered more than 10,000 South Sudanese girls and boys to defend themselves and others against sexual assault and harassment.
WPSA Budget fiscal year 19/20: Salary covering four positions: $245,000 (63%); Operating budget: $142,000 (37%); Total: $387,000.
The Department of National Defence has contributed a Canadian Armed Forces member and a public servant (arrived in January 2020) for a combined salary value of $60,000 this fiscal year.

Bill to Amend the Chemical Weapons Convention Implementation Act

Canada is proud to be a leader in the fight against chemical weapons.
Seeking adoption of the amended Chemical Weapons Convention as well as separate legislative amendments to the Chemical Weapons Convention Implementation Act that resolve a discrepancy.
The current version of the Implementation Act contains a copy of the original list of chemicals controlled under the Convention – which is now out of date. Amendments to the Act simply remove the old list.

Supplementary messages

Amendments to the Convention, which Canada should adopt, are part of an unprecedented collective response taken by several allies, including the United Kingdom and the United States, to the brazen attacks in Salisbury, UK, in 2018.
The amendments add a total of four new categories of chemicals to the Chemical Weapons Convention; these chemicals have only one use: to kill.
We also propose amending our domestic Implementation Act, to remove the old (and now out-of-date) list of controlled chemicals.
Amending the Act will not impact how the Act applies to Canadians. It in no way changes Canada’s obligations or commitments under the CWC.

Update

Canada co-sponsored the proposal to add the chemicals used in the Salisbury attacks (known as “Novichoks”) to the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC). These chemicals are highly toxic and extremely dangerous. They have been used as a chemical weapon and must be treated as such. Canada’s adoption of these amendments would be an expected response to international calls for these dangerous chemicals to be controlled under the CWC. As the chemicals to be added have no use except as chemical weapons, there will be no impact on Canadian industry.

Supporting facts and figures

Canada has long been a leader in the fight against chemical weapons.
Canada worked closely with allies including the US, the UK, and the Netherlands, to propose these changes to the Chemical Weapons Convention.
Canada’s Weapons Threat Reduction Program is supporting the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) to keep pace with new threats.
Canada is assisting the OPCW to better safeguard its assets against cyber-attacks, such as that carried out by Russia in April 2018.
Canada has committed $7.5 million to support the OPCW to build a new Centre for Chemistry and Technology.

Background

The Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) seeks to completely eliminate and prohibit an entire category of weapon of mass destruction in a verifiable manner. The CWC's Annex on Chemicals includes three lists of chemicals (the "Schedules") that are subject to declaration and verification by the OPCW - these are the lists of possible chemical weapons and their precursors. Chemicals in Schedule 1 have no use in industry and thus are effectively banned for any purpose other than limited research and training for defense against such chemical weapons. Chemicals listed in Schedules 2 and 3 are used in industry and other non-prohibited activities.

At the Twenty-Fourth Session of the Conference of the States Parties to the CWC, in November 2019, two binding decisions were adopted to add new toxic chemicals to Schedule 1. Among these chemicals are the family of "Novichok" type agents used in the attempted assassination of former British spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia Skripal in the UK in March 2018.

Iran

Iran-U.S. tensions

Iran continues to exploit differences in approaches between the U.S. and its allies. It is time to figure out how to bridge or, at the very least, manage those differences in order to speak with one voice and de-escalate tensions in the Middle East.
Iran’s actions in Iraq directly threaten Canadian and partner forces. There is a very real possibility of future escalation, either by miscalculation or deliberate action. We must coordinate our efforts to seek diplomatic solutions in order to defuse the current crisis.

Supplementary messages

Canada is focusing its efforts on supporting Flight PS752 victims’ families’ wishes, particularly on obtaining compensation for them. We continue to press the Iranians for a timely analysis of the data from the flight recorders.
Minister Zarif and I have been in regular contact, most recently in a meeting with the members of the International Coordination and Response Group for flight PS752 at the Munich Security Conference on February 15.
Canada is committed to holding Iran accountable for its destabilizing regional activities, and has called on Iran to restore its commitments under the Iran nuclear deal (JCPOA), which Canada sees as vital to regional and international security, a position shared with the UK, France and Germany.

Update

A January 17, 2020 Friday Prayers speech by the Supreme Leader indicates that he expects the Quds force to carry on exerting regional influence and has provided them with religious justification for their actions. In that same speech, the Supreme Leader called the Quds Force “combatants without borders” who sacrifice their lives to assist the oppressed in the region.

Iran – human rights

Canada is deeply concerned by the situation of human rights in Iran.
Canada is a global leader in holding Iran to account for its human rights violations, including by leading international efforts on the resolution on the situation of human rights in the Islamic Republic of Iran at the UN General Assembly since 2003.
Canada regularly works with likeminded countries and human rights groups, including Iranian religious and ethnic minorities, in order to press Iran to improve its human rights record.

Supplementary messages

The situation of human rights in Iran remains of serious concern, including Iran's extensive use of the death penalty, and severe restrictions on freedom of expression, women's rights, and the rights of ethnic and religious minorities.
Canada successfully led the resolution on the Situation of human rights in the Islamic Republic of Iran for the 17th consecutive year, with its adoption by the UN General Assembly in December 2020.
This resolution is a valuable tool to hold Iran to account, and encourage Iran to improve its human rights record. It maintains international attention on this issue and helps support the work of human rights defenders in Iran, including through mandating the work of the Special Rapporteur for the situation of human rights in the Islamic Republic of Iran.
Canada further works to hold Iran to account for its human rights record by making recommendations in each of Iran’s Universal Periodic Reviews, including in its latest review in November 2019.

Update

The general trends suggest that grievances in Iran continue to multiply, along social economic, ethnic, and political lines. While occasional protests are a regular occurrence in Iran, it is likely that a higher frequency of protests will become the norm in the near term. At the outset, the Iranian regime is likely to opt for technical measures over excessive force to repress protests, though will escalate to excessive force if the protests threaten Iran’s domestic stability. The Iranian regime often demonizes marginalized groups in the face of domestic instability, including targeting ethnic and religious minorities, women and sexual minorities, and other minority groups. There have been no significant improvements in the situation of human rights in Iran during President Rouhani’s two terms. If the recent February 2020 elections are an indication, the trends will continue to worsen.

Israeli-Palestinian conflict

Israeli settlements

Canada does not recognize permanent Israeli control over territories occupied in 1967, including the West Bank.
We agree with the UN Security Council that these settlements are a serious obstacle to achieving a just, lasting and comprehensive peace.
Canada's longstanding stated position remains unchanged: Canada considers Israeli settlements to be a violation of the Fourth Geneva Convention.

Supplementary messages

Canada remains committed to the goal of a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in the Middle East, including the creation of a Palestinian state living side by side in peace and security with Israel.
As Israel’s friend, we are concerned by reports that (possible) unilateral annexations in the West Bank are being considered.
We are also concerned by recent announcements regarding the possible advancement of settlement construction in Giv’at Hamatos, Har Homa, and the E1 area.

Update

On 20 February, Prime Minister Netanyahu announced the advancement of construction and expansion procedures in two settlements, Givat HaMatos and Har Homa. On 25 February, the Israeli PM further announced that he had authorized construction in the controversial E1 area, to the east of East Jerusalem. These developments – if fully implemented – would hamper significantly the prospect of a two-state solution. By nearly encircling Jerusalem, the new and enhanced settlements would virtually eliminate the potential for Palestinian territorial contiguity between East Jerusalem and the rest of the West Bank region, and could sever the link between northern and southern halves of the West Bank (via the E1 corridor). The areas all fall within the zone earmarked by the US Peace Plan for Israeli annexation. While construction in these areas is not imminent, several international actors (EU, UK, France, Germany, Italy, UN Special Coordinator Mladenov) have expressed their concern.

Supporting facts and figures

The Israeli settler population in East Jerusalem now exceeds 215,000, in addition to the West Bank settler population that numbers over 427,000.
Canada’s positions on settlements are in line with the broad international consensus; likeminded countries such as France, Germany, Italy, and the EU have issued statements on PM Netanyahu’s recent settlement announcements.
In 2017, Minister Freeland issued a statement expressing deep concern regarding Israel’s “Regulation Law,” which retroactively legalized settlers’ outposts, which are illegal under international law.

Background

All Israeli governments since 1967, including the current one, have continued to build settlements in East Jerusalem and the West Bank. In line with the broad international consensus, Canada views Israeli settlements in the West Bank and East Jerusalem as a violation of the Fourth Geneva Convention and a serious obstacle to peace.

In Israel, discussion of annexation (which Israelis often characterize as “applying sovereignty”) of parts of the West Bank has become increasingly commonplace, with PM Netanyahu vowing in September to do so if re-elected. The US, with the release of their Peace Plan in December, effectively endorsed Israel’s future annexation of parts of the West Bank, including all settlements and the Jordan Valley.

Jerusalem

Canada's longstanding position is that the status of Jerusalem can be resolved only as part of a general settlement of the Israeli-Palestinian dispute.
We continue to support the building of conditions necessary for the parties to find a peaceful solution to the conflict.
Canada does not recognize Israel’s unilateral annexation of East Jerusalem.

Supplementary messages

Canada opposes unilateral actions that undermine prospects for peace.
We are concerned by recent announcements regarding the possible advancement of settlement construction near Jerusalem in Giv’at Hamatos, Har Homa, and the E1 area.
As the Prime Minister has clearly stated, Canada will not be moving its embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem.

Update

The Palestinians have long sought their future capital to be in East Jerusalem, however the recently-released US peace plan proposes a future Palestinian capital in eastern Jerusalem, falling well short of Palestinian aspirations. During Israel’s recent election campaign, PM Netanyahu pledged to push forward with the expansion of several settlement projects in and around Jerusalem, which would further diminish the Palestinian presence in, and connection to, Jerusalem. Several states have issued public statements criticizing the Israeli plans.

Supporting facts and figures

The future status of Jerusalem, including the Old City, is one of the most contentious issues in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Jerusalem is highly significant to Jews, Muslims, and Christians alike.
Israel considers Jerusalem to be its “eternal, undivided capital.” Many Israeli institutions, including its Supreme Court and Ministry of Foreign Affairs, are located in West Jerusalem.
Following the US recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital in December 2017, the Palestinians cut off bilateral relations with the US.
Under the US peace plan:
- Jerusalem would be unified under Israeli sovereignty.
- The status quo at the city’s holy sites, including Jordanian administration, would be maintained, with Israel retaining overall security and control.
- The Palestinians are offered a location for a future capital in eastern Jerusalem, in existing communities outside of Israel’s separation barrier, which does not meet their stated goal of a future capital in East Jerusalem.

Background

As the international consensus on Jerusalem begins to weaken, Israel is continuing the expansion of settlements and challenging the status quo at the Old City’s holy sites, raising tensions between the city’s Jewish and Arab residents. While the US peace plan did not propose any change to the status quo at the holy sites (including the Temple Mount / Haram al-Sharif complex), the plan’s proposal for overall Israeli sovereignty over Jerusalem would, if implemented, further erode the Palestinians’ claims to East Jerusalem, risking increased tensions and further violence.

Violence in Gaza

Canada unequivocally condemns the rocket attacks on Israel by groups in Gaza, including Palestinian Islamic Jihad.
The protection of civilians is absolutely necessary. Israelis and Palestinians have the right to live in peace, with dignity, and free from violence.
We remain very concerned about the humanitarian and security situation in the Gaza Strip.

Supplementary messages

Responsive Line: Israel has the right to take the necessary measures to protect the security of its citizens against attacks from terrorist groups, in accordance with international humanitarian and human rights law.

Update

On February 23 2020 Israeli forces attacked a Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) team that was placing a bomb along the border fence between Gaza and Israel, killing one. Video of the body of the deceased being moved by an Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) bulldozer circulated on social media, causing considerable anger. Multiple exchanges of rocket fire by PIJ and airstrikes by Israel followed. Hamas did not engage in this round of violence. A fragile ceasefire between PIJ and Israel was struck on February 24 2020.

Supporting facts and figures

Canada provides approximately $60 million annually in support to Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza, as well as Palestinian refugees in the region.
Since 2016, Canada has provided a total of $110 million to support Palestinian refugees through the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees (UNRWA).
Recent communications: On November 13 2019, following an escalation of violence in Gaza, Global Affairs Canada tweeted: “Canada strongly condemns the unacceptable firing of rockets at civilians in #Israel. Immediate de-escalation is necessary. We fully support the efforts of Egypt and the UN in this regard.”

Background

The population of Gaza faces high levels of acute vulnerability. Recurrent violence, severe restrictions on the movement of people and goods, limited economic growth, poor governance, and poverty have eroded Gazans’ resilience. Approximately 82 percent of the population require some form of humanitarian assistance. Unemployment rates are among the highest in the world, the majority of the population is food insecure and 96 percent of the groundwater in Gaza is unfit for human consumption. Against this backdrop, protests began in March 2018 as part of the “Great March of Return”. The resulting clashes have led to more than 250 Palestinians being killed and over 23,600 injured.

While the protests have since diminished in intensity, violence between groups in Gaza and Israel continues. An escalation of violence occurred in November 2019 following an Israeli airstrike that killed a senior PIJ commander and his wife. In response, approximately 500 rockets were launched into Israel by PIJ. Israel’s counterstrikes on targets in Gaza resulted in 34 deaths in Gaza and in 111 injuries.

Canada exercises enhanced due diligence for all humanitarian and development assistance for Palestinians. Hamas, which controls the Gaza Strip, is a listed terrorist organization. The Government of Canada has no contact with Hamas.

U.S. Middle East peace plan

Canada takes careful note of US peace efforts.
The conflict can only be resolved through direct negotiations between the parties.
Canada continues to urge both parties to resume direct negotiations for a lasting peace to be achieved.

Supplementary messages

We remain committed to the goal of a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace in the Middle East and will continue to play a constructive role in supporting peace in the region.
Canada supports a two-state solution to the conflict, including the creation of a Palestinian state living side by side in peace and security with Israel.
The final status issues (Jerusalem, refugees, borders, recognition) should be negotiated directly between the parties.
We oppose unilateral actions, which undermine prospects for peace.

Update

The US peace plan was released in its entirety on January 28, 2020. The plan addresses the key final status issues (Jerusalem, refugees, borders, recognition), however the plan strongly favours Israel, and crosses several Palestinian red-lines, with the result that the Palestinian Authority rejected it the same day it was released.

Supporting facts and figures

The plan calls for a Palestinian state to be created in roughly 70% of West Bank + Gaza + two areas in the Negev Desert.
Jerusalem would be unified under Israeli sovereignty & overall security and control.
The Palestinians are offered a location for a future capital in eastern Jerusalem, in existing communities outside of Israel’s separation barrier. This does not meet their longstanding demand for a future capital in East Jerusalem.
The plan calls for neither Israelis nor Palestinians to be uprooted, with Israel retaining control and sovereignty over West Bank settlement blocs.
Israel would have secure and recognized borders, including the Jordan Valley which would constitute its eastern border with Jordan.
Palestinian refugees would either be absorbed into the new State of Palestine, integrated in current host countries, and/or up to 50,000 possibly resettled (over ten years) in individual Organization of Islamic Cooperation-member countries.
Recognition of an eventual State of Palestine would be contingent on Palestinian demilitarisation, commitment to democracy and the rule of law, and recognizing Israel as a Jewish state, among other conditions.

Background

In engagements with likemindeds and others since the plan’s release, Canadian officials have been clear that Canada remains committed to supporting peace between the parties, but ultimately it is up to Israelis and Palestinians to reach an agreement through direct negotiations. International reactions to the plan were at first cautiously supportive of US efforts, however more recently several states and groups such as the EU, Arab League, and others have reiterated their support to the longstanding international consensus of a two-state solution based on 1967 lines, rather than the vision laid out in the US plan. Many observers have also indicated that the US plan may have the effect of shifting the baseline negotiating positions on the conflict in Israel’s favour, which could affect future negotiations between the parties.

International Criminal Court (ICC) investigation into the “Situation in Palestine”

Canada is monitoring the International Criminal Court's consideration of the situation in the West Bank including East Jerusalem, and the Gaza Strip.
Canada's longstanding position is that it does not recognize a Palestinian state and therefore does not recognize the accession of such a state to international treaties, including the Rome Statute.
In the absence of a Palestinian State, it is Canada’s view that the Court does not have jurisdiction in this matter under international law.
Canada understands that other countries intend to make observations to the Court, which will provide them with an opportunity to follow Canada’s example in putting their positions on the record regarding the purported Palestinian accession to the International Criminal Court.

Supplementary messages

In 2015 and 2018, Canada submitted our position regarding the lack of jurisdiction to the International Criminal Court.
On February 14, 2020, Canada submitted a letter reiterating that position to the ICC. The ICC Prosecutor herself referred to Canada’s position on Palestinian statehood in her request to the Pre-Trial Chamber of the ICC.
As a friend and ally of Israel and friend of the Palestinian people, Canada is firmly committed to the goal of a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in the Middle East, including the creation of a Palestinian state living side by side in peace and security with Israel, achieved through direction negotiations between the parties.

Background

On December 20, 2019, the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court decided to formally advance the investigation on the “Situation in Palestine” after finding that in her view, war crimes had been or are being committed in the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and Gaza. However, due the contested legal issues surrounding territorial definitions in the West Bank, East Jerusalem and Gaza, the prosecutor requested from the Pre-Trial Chamber, a ruling confirming whether the ICC has the jurisdiction to investigate in those territories.

Canada has expressed its position to the treaty depositary in January 2015 that it does not recognize a “State of Palestine” and it does not consider “Palestine” to be a party to the Rome Statute or to have any treaty relationship to Canada as a State Party. In the absence of a Palestinian State, it is Canada’s view that the Court does not have jurisdiction under international law. Canada further reaffirmed this position in 2018 and on February 14, 2020, Canada once again reiterated this position in a letter submitted to the ICC.

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Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS)

Canada is concerned by efforts, such as BDS, to single out Israel for criticism and isolate Israel internationally.
Parliament clearly expressed its concern for the BDS movement when the House of Commons voted in large majority, on February 18, 2016, for a motion rejecting the movement.
The imposition of restrictions and sanctions in this context exacerbates tensions, and does nothing to improve the quality of life for Palestinian citizens.

Supplementary messages

Prime Minister Trudeau most recently expressed Canada's concerns when he condemned the BDS movement and antisemitism during the April 2019 state visit by the President of Israel, and the May 7, 2019 National Holocaust Remembrance Day Ceremony in Ottawa.

Update

On February 12, 2020, the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) published a list of 112 companies operating in Israeli settlements (no Canadian companies were listed). Canada had previously expressed concerns to the High Commissioner in writing.

Supporting facts and figures

On February 22, 2016, a House of Commons motion condemning the BDS movement passed by 229 votes to 51 votes.
Canada adopted the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) working definition of antisemitism in June, 2019.
The Governor General travelled to Jerusalem and Poland in January for commemorations of International Holocaust Remembrance Day.

Background

The BDS movement is a campaign founded in 2005 by Palestinian NGOs. The BDS movement "urges nonviolent pressure on Israel until it complies with international law by meeting three demands”: (i) Ending its occupation and colonization of all Arab lands and dismantling the barrier between the West Bank and Israel; (ii) Recognizing the fundamental rights of the Arab-Palestinian citizens of Israel to full equality; and (iii) Respecting, protecting and promoting the rights of Palestinian refugees to return to their homes and properties as stipulated in UN Resolution 194. Much of the movement is focused on university campuses in Europe and North America and includes academic and cultural boycotts.

Critics of the campaign argue that the BDS movement is antisemitic and promotes the de-legitimization of Israel. There are also more targeted calls for boycotts of products produced in Israeli settlements in the West Bank or the Palestinian boycott of Israeli goods sold in the West Bank.

Canada’s vote on Palestian self-determination

Canada will always be a steadfast ally and friend of Israel and a friend of the Palestinian people.
Canada voted in support of this resolution as it addresses the core issue of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Canada strongly supports the international consensus on a two-state solution, so that both sides can have a secure and prosperous future.

Supplementary messages

Canada is strongly committed to the goal of a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in the Middle East, including the creation of a Palestinian state living side-by-side in peace and security with Israel.
Canada has strongly reiterated our stated position and concern that there are too many resolutions related to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict at the UN.
This is a situation which unfairly singles out Israel for criticism.
Canada has voted against the vast majority of these yearly Israel-related votes for many years.

Background

On November 19, 2019, Canada changed its vote from “No” to “Yes” on a resolution titled “The Right of the Palestinian people to self-determination” at the UN General Assembly. The resolution was adopted by a vote of 165Y-5N-9A. The only states to vote “No” were the US, Israel, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, and Vanuatu. The resolution was co-sponsored by 129 countries including likeminded (EU, New Zealand, Switzerland, and Norway).

The resolution reaffirms the right of the Palestinian people to self-determination, including the right to an independent Palestinian state. As such, Canada voted in support of this resolution as it addresses the core issue of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, namely the right of both peoples to determine their own future. Canada strongly supports the international consensus on a two-state solution, so that both sides can have a secure and prosperous future.

Although we voted “Yes” on this single resolution, Canada maintains its position at the UN that there are too many resolutions related to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, a situation which unfairly singles out Israel for criticism. We have thus maintained voting record on all other resolutions, voting overwhelmingly “No” on these Israel-related ones.

NATO

NATO remains as valuable and essential to the security of its members as ever and Allies remain strongly committed to collective security.
Canada is proud of our contributions through NATO to uphold security and stability in the Euro-Atlantic area.
Canada’s commitment to collective security is demonstrated by our tangible contributions to NATO missions, operations and activities including our command of NATO Mission Iraq (NMI) and leadership of the enhanced Forward Presence (eFP) battlegroup in Latvia.

Supplementary messages

Canada will increase defence spending by more than 70% from 2016-17 to 2026-27.
Canada will command NATO Mission Iraq (NMI) until November 2020.
Canada supports the initiation of a reflection process under the Secretary General’s leadership to further strengthen NATO’s political dimension.
Canada is a leading supporter of NATO’s work on Women, Peace and Security.

Update

Allies have been working to develop an agreed framework for NATO to undertake a ‘strategic reflection’ on the Alliance’s political dimension. At the Defence Ministers’ Meeting in February 2020, Allies agreed in principle to enhance NMI. In that same month, the Government of Iraq reaffirmed its support for NMI. NMI activities that have been temporarily suspended since January 3, 2020, and will resume when the NATO Military Authorities assess the environment to be safe and secure in Iraq to do so. NATO Foreign Ministers will next meet from April 2-3, 2020, at NATO HQ in Brussels.

Supporting facts and figures

Canada has been the Framework Nation for the NATO eFP battlegroup in Latvia since its establishment in 2017 and will lead the battlegroup to March 2023, contributing up to 540 Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) personnel.
Canada has led NMI since its launch in 2018 and deploys up to 250 troops (currently about 230) to the mission. NMI is a non-combat training and capacity building mission designed to help Iraqi forces prevent the resurgence of Daesh.
Canada’s annual assessed contribution to NATO is approximately $216.6 million per year, making it the sixth largest financial contributor among Allies.
Canada’s spending on defence is approximately 1.48% of GDP by 2024 (1.31% in 2019-20).
Canada is among the top financial supporters of the NATO Office for Women, Peace and Security, with $800,000 of funding to the office between 2017-2021 and deployment of a Voluntary National Contribution (VNC) to staff the office.
Canada also contributes VNCs to the NATO Office of the Senior Civilian Representative in Afghanistan and to the NATO Liaison Office in Ukraine.

Official development assistance levels

According to preliminary figures, in 2018-2019, Canada disbursed $6.4 billion in international assistance, of which $6.2 billion was official development assistance (ODA).
In Budget 2018 the government committed an additional $2 billion to international assistance over five years, starting in 2018–2019. Budget 2019 also announced an additional $700 million to international assistance in 2023–2024.
While the volume of ODA is key to helping achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Canada also places strong priority on ensuring the quality and effectiveness of its assistance, and on contributing to policy innovation that can get better results for the poorest and most vulnerable.

Supplementary messages

Canada continues to do its part to help improve the lives of the poorest and most vulnerable around the world, and support the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Canada is also working hard to better leverage its ODA to attract new sources of capital in support of development objectives.
Canada is doing this because, as the United Nations has noted, ODA from governments alone is not enough to meet the scope of global needs.

Update

To enhance transparency and reporting on international assistance, Budget Implementation Act, 2018, No. 2 aligned the reporting timelines of the Bretton Woods and Related Agreements Act, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development Agreement Act, and the Official Development Assistance Accountability Act, which made it possible for their reporting requirements to be met within a consolidated international assistance report, which is to be tabled in Parliament by March 31, 2020, and will be published on Global Affairs Canada’s website.

Final 2018-2019 figures will be included in this report, and in the Statistical Report on International Assistance.

Supporting facts and figures

The OECD Development Assistance Committee (DAC) calculates country’s ODA volume and ODA/GNI ratio on a calendar year basis where all official sources of ODA are reported (including provinces, municipalities), whereas Canada reports to Parliament only on federal ODA on a fiscal year basis. As a result, Canada reported $6.04 billion of ODA to the DAC for 2018 and $5.9 billion of federal ODA to Parliament for 2018-2019 (preliminary figures).
On a calendar year basis, Canada’s net ODA rose by CAD $398.2 million in 2018 compared to 2017; this increase is attributed to the first capitalization of FinDev Canada; an increase in climate change financing; and, the timing of payments to the Afghanistan Reconstruction Trust Fund, and other multilateral organizations.
According to 2018 figures, Canada is the 9th largest DAC donor in absolute terms at US$4.66 billion (same ranking in 2017 and 11th in 2016) and 15th in terms of ODA/GNI at 0.28% (compared to 16th in 2017 and 18th in 2016).
Canada has faced criticism for not reaching the 0.7% ODA/GNI target and being below the OECD-DAC average of 0.30%.

Physical security at missions abroad

Global Affairs Canada operates in a complex risk environment with ever-changing threats and undertakes all reasonable measures to protect Canadian personnel abroad.
As part of a wide-ranging program of security and seismic enhancements investments—known collectively as “Duty of Care”—our government committed, in 2017, $1.8 billion to improve the safety and security of our people abroad. This is done through enhanced intelligence gathering, security training and more resilient infrastructure.
Global Affairs Canada has accepted all five recommendations by the Office of the Auditor General following its review of physical security at Canadian missions abroad in 2018. 67% of these are fully implemented and 33% are on track for completion.

Supplementary messages

GAC’s security investments are governed by the department's Global Security Framework, which ensures appropriate investment oversight, prioritization and performance measurement.
Security infrastructure and practices in our missions abroad are continuously reviewed through rigorous risk assessment analyses to ensure that appropriate physical and operational security measures and safeguards are in place.

Supporting facts and figures

47 Major Capital Projects (estimated at $800M) have been initiated (to be completed over the next seven years) to enhance the physical and seismic security of our people and missions abroad.
Over the same period, GAC has earmarked $3 million/year to undertake minor physical security upgrades across the mission network.
Over the past year, 38 missions have received new armoured vehicles and 62 missions have received various security equipment such as CCTVs, metal detectors, or security screening (X-ray) machines.

Rohingya – Canada’s response

Canada remains deeply concerned by the ongoing violence in Myanmar and the displacement of over 805,000 Rohingya to Bangladesh since August 2017.
Our Strategy dedicates $300 million over three years to address humanitarian, development, peace and stabilization needs. As of November 2019, $277 million has been committed.
Since 2017, Canada has allocated more than $109 million ($88 million to Bangladesh, $21 million to Myanmar) in humanitarian assistance to help improve the living conditions for Rohingya refugees, and address the needs of displaced and other vulnerable populations in Myanmar.

Supplementary messages

In line with our Feminist International Assistance Policy, Canada's assistance in Myanmar and Bangladesh helps to improve the human dignity, peace and security, and rights for all vulnerable people, especially women and girls.
In Cox’s Bazar, Canada’s humanitarian assistance has helped provide emergency food assistance to 900,000 Rohingya refugees each year and access to over 2,700,000 health care consultations and services.
Canada is also supporting host communities in Cox’s Bazar, particularly women and girls, in education, health, and livelihoods.
Canada is also promoting positive political developments in Myanmar through our support to social cohesion, democratization and the peace process, with a focus on issues related to gender equality.
Accountability remains a top priority of Canada’s response to this crisis, most recently demonstrated by our commitment to explore options to support the Gambia’s case against Myanmar at the International Court of Justice.

Update

Repatriation of Rohingya remains highly unlikely in the short or medium term due to a sharp escalation in violence in Rakhine, displacing 60,000 since January 2019. Myanmar has instituted an internet shutdown in several conflict-affected townships. National elections in 2020 are expected to spark further ethno-nationalism and hate speech. Bangladesh has recently approved the delivery of formal education in Cox’s Bazar refugee camps using the Myanmar curriculum - a milestone for humanitarian response efforts. However, humanitarian and development assistance must persist. Bangladesh remains concerned about donor fatigue now 3+ years into the crisis.

Supporting facts and figures

Approx. 600,000 Rohingya remain in Myanmar, roughly 125,000 in internally displaced persons’ (IDP) camps.
In 2019, Canada was the fifth largest single-country donor to the humanitarian response in Bangladesh. We continue to implement our three year, $300 million Strategy.

Background

Canada’s gender-responsive development initiatives in Rakhine State promote inclusion and reconciliation through support for livelihoods, nutrition and inclusive governance. Development projects in Myanmar support efforts to counter sexual and gender-based violence, advance sexual and reproductive health and rights and strengthen women’s voice and leadership. Canada supports democratization and the peace process through a commitment of $7 million (from late 2016-early 2021) to the Joint Peace Fund. In Cox’s Bazar, Canada is providing multi-sector, life-saving humanitarian assistance in the camps, and advocates for education and self-reliance opportunities for refugees.

Russia/Ukraine

Resolute in support of Ukraine’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and efforts to join Euro-Atlantic community.
Make important contribution to Ukrainian security and sovereignty through Operation UNIFIER, the Canadian Armed Forces training mission, which supports Ukraine’s reform agenda, Euro-Atlantic aspirations and goal to achieve NATO interoperability.
January coordinated sanctions with EU and United States on illegitimate Crimea elections sent clear message that international community does not tolerate Russia’s continued violation of international law.

Supplementary messages

Canada is a consistent supporter of diplomatic efforts under the Minsk peace process and continue to call on all parties to conflict, particularly Russia, to implement the Minsk agreements fully.
Canada is concerned by increasing evidence of Russian efforts to destabilize democracies using disinformation campaigns and is carefully monitoring the matter and responding appropriately.
Since January 2014, Canada has committed over $785 million to Ukraine: financial, development, stabilization and security, non-lethal military and humanitarian assistance.
Our position on the unacceptability of Russia’s annexation of Crimea and destabilization in eastern Ukraine will not change, however, Canada engages with Russia to express our values and advance our interests.

Update – Conflict in Eastern Ukraine/Minsk Peace Process

Leaders of the “Normandy Four” (Ukraine, Russia, Germany, France) met in December 2019. While there were no major breakthroughs, the agreements appeared to serve as confidence-building measures. Another Summit was scheduled for April 2020, however, it has been unclear whether it will proceed.

Supporting facts and figures

Canada has imposed targeted sanctions through the Special Economic Measures Act against more than 430 Russian and Ukrainian individuals and entities.
Approximately 200 deployed CAF personnel provide military training and capacity building to Ukraine’s security forces through Operation UNIFIER. Since the start of the mission, CAF personnel have trained more than 16,000 Ukrainian security personnel.
In February 2019, Operation UNIFIER was extended until 31 March 2022. Under the renewed mandate, Global Affairs Canada will provide security sector reform support. The extension also increased the CAF personnel cap to 245 (from 195).
Canada has 34 police deployed to Ukraine. 32 serve in the Canadian Police Mission in Ukraine (CPMU), a bilateral initiative. 2 officers are serving in the European Union Advisory Mission for Civilian Security Sector Reform Ukraine (EUAM Ukraine).
Russia dedicates significant resources to promoting disinformation and propaganda to both Western and Russian-speaking publics. Russia has succeeded in strengthening its influence globally by courting non-Western countries, lending support to regimes in Syria and Venezuela, interfering in internal armed conflicts and exacerbating existing divisions in order to induce policy paralysis within democracies and weaken their resolve to act.
Disinformation pertaining to the West and NATO's intentions/actions towards Russia and to Russia's actions in Ukraine, Syria and beyond, is widespread in Russian state-sponsored and state-run media outlets and online digital platforms.
With G7 partners, Canada has operationalized the Rapid Response Mechanism (RRM) in order to reinforce our democracies and coordinate responses to interference through disinformation.
Canada is one of the leading supporters of Ukraine’s democratic reforms and hosted the Ukraine Reform Conference in Toronto in 2019.

Canada’s sanctions regime

Autonomous sanctions are an important complement to Canada's foreign policy tools for maintaining and restoring international peace and security and promoting respect for human rights.

Supplementary messages

Sanctions complement Canada's comprehensive suite of foreign policy tools, which includes engagement, dialogue, and capacity building.
Canada is judicious when it chooses to deploy sanctions and is committed to their effective and coordinated use, when appropriate.
Canada remains committed to playing a leadership role in the preservation and strengthening of an international rules-based order - sanctions are a component of this approach.
The Government is continuing to review Canada's sanctions regime with a view to facilitating transparency and greater awareness among stakeholders.

Update

On January 29, 2020, Canada amended the Special Economic Measures (Ukraine) Regulations to list six additional individuals to signal Canada’s continued condemnation of Russia’s actions in Ukraine.

Background

Justice for Victims of Corrupt Foreign Officials Act (JVCFOA) allows Canada to target foreign nationals responsible for or complicit in gross violations of internationally-recognized human rights or acts of significant corruption. There are 70 individuals listed under the JVCFOA, including nationals from Venezuela, South Sudan, Myanmar, Russia, and Saudi Arabia. Canadians are prohibited from dealing with listed individuals, effectively freezing their Canadian assets, and these individuals are inadmissible to Canada under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act.

Special Economic Measures Act (SEMA) allows Canada to impose sanctions against a foreign state, individuals and entities related to that foreign state. Canada may impose sanctions under SEMA, either, when there has been a grave breach of international peace and security resulting in a serious international crisis, when an international organization calls on its members to impose sanctions, in cases of gross and systematic violations of human rights, or cases of significant corruption.

SEMA sanctions may include a dealings ban for a list of targeted individuals and/or entities, restrictions on trade, financial transactions or other economic activity. Canada uses humanitarian exemptions to mitigate unintended consequences and potentially adverse effects on vulnerable groups, such as women and girls. To maximize sanctions effectiveness, Canada seeks to coordinate sanctions with other countries (e.g., U.S, EU). There are SEMA sanctions on 11 countries: Iran, Libya, Myanmar, Nicaragua, DPRK, Russia, South Sudan, Syria, Ukraine, Venezuela, and Zimbabwe.

When the UN Security Council determines an act of aggression or threat to or breach of the peace has occurred, it may decide what measures member states shall take to restore or maintain international peace and security. Canada enacts regulations under the United Nations Act to implement these decisions. There are 13 countries subject to UN sanctions (Central African Republic, Mali, DRC, Eritrea, Iran, Iraq, Lebanon, Libya, DPRK, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, and Yemen).

Budget 2018 announced $19.5 million to strengthen Canada's sanctions regime. Global Affairs Canada is implementing this commitment through the establishment of a dedicated, centralized division for policy development, coordination with international partners, regulatory work, and increased engagement with domestic stakeholders.

Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia – Human rights

The promotion and protection of human rights, including the right to freedom of thought, conscience, and religion, are an integral part of Canada's foreign policy.
Canada remains deeply concerned about the human rights situation in Saudi Arabia and the ongoing detention of human rights defenders.
Canada is following the case of Mr. Raif Badawi closely.

Supplementary messages

Canada and likeminded have publicly called for the release of civil society and women’s rights activists in Saudi Arabia.
The Prime Minister has raised Canada’s ongoing and serious concerns about Mr. Badawi when he spoke to King Salman and the Crown Prince.
Canada continues to call for truth and accountability in the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

Update

Saudi Arabia’s ongoing human rights violations remain a predominant concern for Canada. According to Twitter posts by Ensaf Haidar, Raif Badawi was moved to a hospital in January 2020 after starting a second hunger strike, following a first hunger strike in November 2019. It is not known whether Mr. Badawi remains in hospital.

Supporting facts and figures

The UN Special Rapporteur for Extrajudicial, Summary or Arbitrary Execution has concluded that Jamal Khashoggi’s death “constituted an extrajudicial killing for which the State of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is responsible.”
Raif Badawi’s wife, Ensaf Haidar, and their three children are Canadian citizens and reside in Sherbrooke, Quebec.

Background

Despite improvements in some areas, Saudi Arabia continues to perpetuate grave human rights violations. These include a high number of executions, the repression of political opposition, the application of corporal punishment, the suppression of freedom of expression, arbitrary arrests, torture and ill-treatment of detainees, limitations on freedom of religion, ongoing discrimination against women and religious minorities, and the mistreatment of migrant workers. A number of civil society and human rights activists have been arrested since mid-2018; it is unclear how many remain in detention. Some of them are facing trials. These arrests provide further evidence that, despite modernization efforts, dissent is not tolerated in Saudi Arabia. Little is known about the trials as diplomats and international groups are barred from attending.

Raif Badawi, a Saudi blogger/activist, was arrested in 2012 on a charge of insulting Islam and brought to court on several charges, including apostasy. He remains in detention. Canada, along with several other likeminded countries and civil society, has advocated for Mr. Badawi, but our ability to discuss the case with Saudi officials is limited given the bilateral dispute. The Saudi government continues to reiterate that the situation is a "private rights" case, as it is a dispute between father and son.

Saudi Arabia – Bilateral dispute

We continue to urge an end to Saudi Arabia’s punitive measures against Canada.
Global Affairs Canada is attempting to resume discussions to pave the way toward the normalization of the relations.
Canada has chosen not to institute reciprocal measures.

Supplementary messages

Canada remains deeply concerned about the human rights situation in Saudi Arabia and the ongoing detention of civil society and women’s rights activists.
Canada will always stand up for the protection of human rights, including women's rights and freedom of expression, around the world.
Canada remains concerned about the dispute's impact on Canadian citizens and businesses.
The Government's review of arms exports to Saudi Arabia, announced in November 2018, is ongoing and no final decision has been made. No new permits have been issued.

Update

The bilateral relationship has been fractured since August 2018 and many Saudi punitive measures against Canada remain in place. Saudi Arabia’s ongoing human rights violations remain a predominant concern for Canada. Saudi Arabia assumed the Chair of the G20 in December 2019; the Leaders’ Summit is scheduled in November.

Supporting facts and figures

Despite the dispute, Saudi Arabia is Canada’s largest two-way trading partner in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region and the 17th largest overall
Bilateral merchandise trade in 2019 was $6.1 billion (compared to $5.7 million in 2018 and 4.1 million in 2017).
An estimated 20,000 Canadians reside in Saudi Arabia.

Background

No progress has yet been achieved in normalizing bilateral relations despite early ministerial-level discussions in 2018. Prime Minister Trudeau had a brief interaction with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman at the G20 Osaka Summit in June 2019. Minister Champagne briefly met his Saudi counterpart at the G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in November 2019. Meetings in February 2020 between Canadian and Saudi officials (ambassadorial level) in Riyadh and in New York were positive and cordial.

At the core of Canada’s relationship with Saudi Arabia is a range of objectives: respect for human rights; international and regional security; and trade diversification and investment. Saudi Arabia’s poor record on human rights domestically and abroad and the humanitarian impact of its actions in Yemen continue to be problematic. However, KSA remains an integral and valued security partner, as well as the key regional bulwark against Iran’s expansionist ambitions and the threat these pose to global and regional security. Its presidency of the G20 is expected to increase Canadian civil society and media attention to the relationship and human rights in Saudi Arabia.

In November 2018 (after Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi was murdered), former Minister of Foreign Affairs Chrystia Freeland announced a review of arms exports to Saudi Arabia and imposed a moratorium on the issuance of new export permits for controlled goods and technology during the review period. Officials have found no credible evidence linking Canadian exports of military equipment or other controlled items to any IHRL and IHL violations committed by the Saudi government.

G20 2020 presidency

Canada values multilateral engagement, and recognizes the importance of multilateral fora in advancing Canadian priorities.
Canada is committed to defending the rules-based international order, advancing women’s equality and economic empowerment, building economies that benefit the middle class and those working hard to join it, and protecting our shared environment for future generations.
While Canada may not always agree with the actions of all G20 members, Canada’s participation at the G20 allows us to build consensus to pursue strong fundamentals crucial for economic stability and growth.

Supplementary messages

Responsive – Attending G20 meetings under KSA Presidency

The presidency of the G20 rotates annually among its members and was assumed by Saudi Arabia on December 1, 2019.
Participation in the G20, the primary forum for international economic cooperation among the world's major economies, allows for Canada to emphasize issues of importance to us.

Update

Finance ministers and central bank governors, including Finance Minister Morneau and Bank of Canada Governor Poloz, attended the first ministerial meeting of the 2020 G20 Presidency in Riyadh on 22-23 February.

Supporting facts and figures

The G20 was established in 1999 due in large part to efforts by Canada.
It met initially at the level of finance ministers and central bank governors.
In 2008, in response to the global financial crisis, it was elevated to the level of leaders.
In addition to an annual Leaders’ Summit, the G20 Presidency traditionally hosts a range of annual ministerial meeting ranging from employment to energy.
G20 members represent 85% of global economic output, two thirds of the world's population, and 75% of international trade.
In 2020, the Saudi Presidency will host 12 ministerial meetings.
Government of Canada officials are actively engaged on all topics, ensuring that Canadian priorities are discussed across all work streams.
The G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting and Leaders’ Summit will take place in November 2020 in Riyadh.

Background

Saudi Arabia’s G20 2020 Presidency is being advanced under the theme of « Realizing Opportunities of the 21st Century for All ». With over 100 meetings and events planned, Saudi Arabia has put forward a packed agenda, seeking to leverage the G20 to show increased focus on global cooperation and openness. While many of the proposals for the upcoming Presidency are in-line with expectations for a G20 Summit year, with a strong focus on economic growth, trade, employment and energy access, the Presidency will not be without controversy given Saudi Arabia’s human rights record. In a July 2019 visit to Canada, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on Extrajudicial, Summary, or Arbitrary Executions called on G20 countries to boycott the Summit. NDP foreign affairs critic Guy Caron also echoed this call. Outside Canada, Amnesty International, Transparency International, and Civicus have announced that they will boycott the Civil Society 20 (C20), an official engagement group of the G20, due to the undermining of C20 principles by the Presidency.

Syria

Syria crisis and peace talks

Canada condemns in the strongest terms the deliberate targeting of civilians in Idlib by the Syrian regime and its supporters.
Full, safe, and unhindered humanitarian access is vital to reach those most in need, throughout Syria.
UN-led intra-Syrian peace negotiations are the only path for a sustainable long-term solution to the conflict.

Supplementary messages

The meaningful participation of women in negotiations is critical to the success of peace talks, and an eventual political settlement.
Canada supports the necessary tools to investigate war crimes and crimes against humanity in Syria and to hold responsible those found guilty of such crimes, including the use of chemical weapons.

Update

Despite an early January 2020 ceasefire agreement, the Syrian regime, with Russian air support, relaunched its ground offensive to capture opposition-held territory in Idlib governorate in northwestern Syria. Turkish military forces have dispatched additional troops and equipment to Idlib in an attempt to push back the offensive and curb refugee flows towards its border, resulting in 54 Turkish deaths and raising fears of a direct confrontation with the Syrian regime. This offensive has resulted in nearly 950,000 displacements since December 2019. The humanitarian crisis has been exacerbated by the closing of two of four cross-border humanitarian passages after Russian and Chinese pressure prevented the technical rollover of UNSCR 2504. The Geneva talks remain stalled after the regime walked out in November 2019 over a disagreement on the agenda, and the Astana process lacks the ability to produce a lasting political solution.

Supporting facts and figures

In the month of February 2020, at least 134 civilians including 26 women and 44 children were killed as a result of regime airstrikes.
Turkey stated that regime forces must retreat to Sochi agreement lines by 29 February or it will respond.
11 medical facilities and 15 educational facilities were targeted by regime and Russian airstrikes.
On 26 February, nine UNSC members, including the US, UK, Germany and France, called on Secretary-General António Guterres to step up his efforts to secure a ceasefire in Idlib.
On 26 February, 14 European Foreign Ministers published an op-ed calling on the Syrian regime and its supporters to immediately cease hostilities in Idlib.
On 28 February, the Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and the Honourable Karina Gould, Minister of International Development, issued a joint statement condemning the attacks on Idlib targeting civilians and civilian institutions, calling for an immediate ceasefire.

Syria consular cases

Aware of Canadians being detained in Syria. Particularly concerned with cases of Canadian children.
Given security situation, ability to provide assistance in Syria extremely limited.
Reached out to Syrian Kurdish officials to seek information on Canadians in custody. Continue to monitor the situation closely.
Due to Privacy Act, no further information can be disclosed.

Supplementary messages

Consular case of orphan child

We are aware of reports that a child born to Canadian parents is currently in a Kurdish-run camp in northeastern Syria.
We are actively engaged on this case with local authorities and are providing consular assistance to the extent possible -- given the security situation on the ground and Canada’s lack of a physical presence in Syria.
We are likewise in regular contact with the family of the child’s deceased parents and are working with them on this sensitive and complex situation – driven by the best interests of the child.
Due to the situation in northeastern Syria, the need to respect the privacy of this child, and to protect her safety and security, no further information will be disclosed on this case.

Atip protected background

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Canada’s United Nations Security Council campaign (UNSC)

Canadians are always ready to stand up and help in challenging times. Canada is a trusted and reliable partner, and has shown leadership and commitment to the UN throughout history.
None of the world's pressing challenges that we face today can be solved alone. Canada needs to be part of a multilateral approach. This is why Canada is running for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for the 2021-22 term.
Canada has identified five priorities if elected to the Security Council: sustaining peace, addressing climate change, promoting economic security, advancing gender equality, and strengthening multilateralism.

Supplementary messages

A campaign for a non-permanent seat on the UN requires time and resources. Canada is running a fiscally responsible campaign, which will allow us to strengthen our diplomatic ties in the process and advance other priorities such as the Sustainable Development Goals.
The Right Hon. Joe Clark and the Hon. Jean Charest have served as Special Envoys for Canada's UN Security Council candidacy. They have both travelled to a number of countries to discuss shared priorities and to help advance Canada's United Nations Security Council bid.

Supporting facts and figures

As of February 24, $2.161 million have been spent on operational expenditures for the UN Security Council campaign. This figure does not include staff salaries, which come from existing resources.
The total campaign cost does not include staff salaries, which come from existing resources. Staffing levels for 2019-20 include 13 full-time positions currently assigned to work on the UN Security Council campaign.

Canada-United States relations

Strengthening Canada’s place in North America is a top priority for our government and we are committed to deepening our engagement with the United States, at all levels of government, with the private sector and civil society.
Maintaining a close and constructive relationship with the U.S. is vital to Canada’s prosperity and security.
The modernization of NAFTA marks an important milestone in the evolution of our trade relationship with the U.S. and we are committed to ratifying and implementing the Agreement in a timely manner.

Supplementary messages

As the Prime Minister has said, the relationship between Canada and the U.S. is deep and goes far beyond the relationship of any one government.
The close and productive ties built over the years by Members of Parliament – including many here today – with Members of Congress, subnational leaders, and other American stakeholders are critically important, especially in the context of an election year in the United States.
To deliver results for Canadians, we are focussed on enhancing competitiveness, increasing commercial ties, advancing border management, cooperating on energy infrastructure and security, among many other important issues involving the United States.

Supporting facts and figures (Statistics in Canadian Dollars)

Canada and the U.S. enjoy the largest trading relationship in the world in terms of trade in both goods and services. In 2018, $499 billion worth of Canadian goods and services went to the U.S. (71 percent of Canada's total exports). Canada imported $469 billion of goods and services from the U.S., making us its largest single export market (62 percent of Canada’s total imports).
Canada is the largest, most secure, foreign source of energy for the U.S. (including oil, natural gas and hydro-electricity). In 2018, over 90 percent of Canadian energy exports were destined for the U.S., totaling $114.8 billion. Canada supplies 22 percent of U.S. oil demand, 9 percent of natural gas consumption, and 2 percent of electricity demand.
Since 2017, the PM, Ministers, Parliamentarians and Premiers have undertaken over 300 visits to the U.S. to advocate for Canadian interests.
The PM last spoke with President Trump on January 31 to discuss CUSMA and the COVID-19 global health emergency.
You last spoke to Secretary Pompeo on January 10, 2020. The exchange focused on the crash of Ukrainian International Airlines Flight 752 and the situation in the Middle East.

Venezuela

Concerned by the worsening situation and humanitarian crisis in Venezuela and its destabilizing effects on the region.
Support the people of Venezuela in their efforts to achieve a peaceful democratic transition in Venezuela.
Condemn ongoing repression, political persecution, and human rights violations by the illegitimate Maduro regime.
Canada has played a leadership role, including through the Lima Group, to support a return to democracy in Venezuela through free, fair and credible elections.

Supplementary messages

On February 20, Canada hosted a Ministerial meeting of the Lima Group.
The international community needs to unite its efforts to end this crisis and see a return to democracy in Venezuela through free, fair and credible elections, the only sustainable and peaceful solution to the crisis.

Update

Canada is currently engaging in outreach to key international partners to discuss a way forward towards a united, global push for change in Venezuela. On February 20, 2020, Canada hosted the 18th Ministerial meeting of the Lima Group. Canada released a Chair’s statement following the meeting, which issued an appeal to the international community to unite in support of a democratic future in Venezuela.

Supporting facts and figures

To date, 59 countries have recognized Guaidó as Interim President of Venezuela.
Over 4.8 million people have fled Venezuela since 2015, many in neighbouring countries, such as Colombia (1.6 million), Peru (860,000), and Ecuador (385,000).
The IMF estimates that GDP has contracted by 65% since 2013; hyperinflation is projected at 500,000%; unemployment is estimated to be 50%; and 90% of the population live below the poverty line.
Canada has committed almost $53 million in stabilization, humanitarian and development programming to respond to the needs of those affected by the crisis.
Since September 2017, Canada has imposed four rounds of sanctions on 112 individuals linked to the Maduro regime. These sanctions do not target Venezuela as a country, but the individuals responsible for undermining democratic institutions, committing human rights abuses, and/or significant acts of corruption.
Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship Canada has not initiated special temporary measures to host Venezuelans in Canada. Existing migration programs available.
Canada does not import crude oil from Venezuela. The last time we imported oil from Venezuela was in 2015 (1800 barrels per day; a total trade value of $40M).
There are currently no Canadian-owned mining companies operating in Venezuela.
In November 2019, Orlando Viera Blanco presented his credentials to the Governor General, becoming the Ambassador of Venezuela to Canada. The status of Maduro-appointed diplomats in Canada is under consideration.

Background

Canada has played a leadership role in the Lima Group and in raising international awareness of the situation in Venezuela. Over the past year, Canada has had several high-level discussions with Cuba, as part of a coordinated Lima Group international outreach. [REDACTED]

Yemen

Canada supports the UN-led process that seeks to achieve a cessation of hostilities and a political transition in Yemen based on principles of inclusivity and respect for human rights.
In February 2019, Canada announced $48.8 million to respond to the humanitarian needs of people in Yemen, building on the $130 million that Canada has provided since 2015.
Canada continues to call on all parties to the conflict to ensure the full safe and unhindered access for humanitarian assistance and to comply fully with international human rights and humanitarian law.

Supplementary messages

We continue to monitor the humanitarian situation in Yemen closely and will respond further as appropriate.
Global Affairs Canada is currently considering its 2020 funding for humanitarian assistance to Yemen.
Canada’s activities in Yemen focus on diplomatic engagement, humanitarian aid, and peace and stabilization programming.
Canada is concerned about the disproportionate effects that the conflict continues to have on women and girls.

Update

In February 2020, Canada and other members of the Yemen Core Group in issuing a joint statement at the Human Rights Council, expressing deep concern about the continued appalling human rights and humanitarian situation. The UN Special Envoy continues efforts to hold another round of peace consultations and notes progress in implementing confidence-building measures between parties (e.g. prisoner exchange, air lift of critical patients). However tensions have escalated since early 2020 and heavy fighting has intensified.

Supporting facts and figures

According to the U.N., 24.1 million people, more than two thirds of the population, need some kind of humanitarian or protection support.
Ongoing violence displaced over 270,000 people in 2019, for a total of over 3.6 million people displaced since the beginning of the conflict in 2015.
Canada actively supports the efforts of the UN Special Envoy for Yemen, Martin Griffiths, and regularly engages with his office to offer Canadian support.
Women and girls are disproportionately affected by the lack of access to essential services and they face an increased risk of sexual and gender-based violence.

Background

Yemen is the Middle East's poorest country and is currently the world’s largest humanitarian crisis. It is host to multiple, overlapping conflicts, namely, since 2015, the civil war between the Government of Yemen (GoY) and Houthi rebels.

In 2018, the UN-sponsored peace consultations in Sweden led to the “Stockholm Agreement”. At the end of August 2019, both parties to the conflict agreed on Martin Griffiths’ proposal of the implementation of the Hodeidah agreement.

In August 2019, tensions raised in southern Yemen between Southern Transitional Council (STC) and the GoY. On November 5, the Saudi-brokered Riyadh Agreement was signed. The Agreement is a power-sharing deal between the Yemeni government and the STC.

Date modified:: 2021-12-21

Minister of Foreign Affairs appearance before the House of Commons Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development (FAAE) – Briefing material

Table of contents

Canada–Africa relations

Supplementary messages

Update

Supporting facts and figures

Canada’s Arctic sovereignty

Supplementary messages

Supporting facts and figures

Background

Brexit

Supplementary messages

Update

Supporting facts and figures

Canada–CARICOM relations

Supplementary messages

Supporting facts and figures

China

China consular cases

Mr. Huseyincan Celil

ATIP protected background

Canada’s approach to China, including Canada’s One China Policy

Supplementary messages

Update

Supporting facts and figures

Human rights and religious freedom in China

Supplementary messages

Update

Supporting facts and figures

Background

Meng Wanzhou arrest and u.s. extradition request

Supplementary messages

Update

5G review

Supplementary messages

Update

Canada-China agriculture trade

Supplementary messages

Background

Regional maritime tensions

Supplementary messages

Update

Supporting facts and figures

Background

Consular cases

Supplementary messages

Atip protected background

Coronavirus

Supplementary messages

Update

Supporting facts and figures

CUSMA / aluminum / softwood lumber

Supplementary messages

Background

Export permits and LAVs

Supplementary messages

Update

Supporting facts and figures

Background

Feminist foreign policy

Supplementary messages

Update

Supporting facts and figures

Background

Incidents in Cuba affecting Canadian diplomats

Supplementary messages

Update

Supporting facts and figures

Canada-India bilateral relations

Supplementary messages

Update

Supporting facts and figures

International security, democracy and human rights

Canada’s contribution to UN peace operations

Supplementary messages

Update

Supporting facts and figures

Background

Atip protected background

Canada’s foreign policy on security, human rights and democracy