Minister of Foreign Affairs appearance before the Committee of the Whole – Briefing material

2020-06-17

Table of contents

1. Africa relations
2. Arctic sovereignty
3. BREXIT
4. CARICOM relations
5. China
   1. China Consular Cases
   2. Canada’s Approach to China, including Canada’s One China Policy
   3. Hong Kong
   4. Human Rights and Freedom of Religion in China
   5. Meng Wanzhou Arrest and U.S. Extradition Request
   6. Canada-China Agriculture Trade
   7. Regional Maritime Tensions
   8. China’s Belt and Road Initiative
6. Consular cases
7. CUSMA
8. Democratic People’s Republic of Korea
9. Export permits and LAVs
10. Feminist foreign policy
11. Incidents in Cuba affecting Canadian diplomats
12. India-bilateral relations
13. International security, democracy and human rights
    1. Canada’s Contribution to Peace Operations
    2. Canada’s National Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security and the WPS Ambassador
    3. Bill to Amend the Chemical Weapons Convention Implementation Act
14. Iran
    1. Iran-U.S. Tensions
    2. Human Rights
    3. Flight PS752
15. Israeli-Palestinian conflict
    1. Potential Israeli Annexation of Parts of the West Bank
    2. Jerusalem
    3. Violence in Gaza
    4. U.S. Middle East Peace Plan
    5. International Criminal Court Investigation into the “Situation in Palestine”
    6. Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS)
    7. Palestinian Self-Determination
16. NATO
17. Official development assistance levels
18. Physical security at missions abroad
19. Rohingya – Canada’s response
20. Russia / Ukraine
21. Sanctions
22. Saudi Arabia
    1. Human Rights
    2. Bilateral Dispute
    3. G20 2020 Presidency
23. Syria
    1. Crisis and Peace Talks
    2. Syria Consular Cases
24. United Nations Security Council campaign
    1. Overview
    2. UNSC Positive Vote
    3. UNSC Subsequent Rounds
    4. UNSC Negative Vote
25. United States
    1. Bilateral Relations
    2. Protests / Anti-Black Racism
26. Venezuela
27. Yemen
28. 5G review
29. Supplementary estimates (A)

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 the response to the COVID-19 pandemic, 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

In 2020, Canada allocated $159.5 million to support international efforts to fight the COVID-19 pandemic, and $306 million to respond to annual humanitarian appeals to continue to address the needs of the most vulnerable. In the six months leading up to the outset of the global pandemic, the Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs, 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. The Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Minister of International Development have also had a series of bilateral calls with their African counterparts in May and June to discuss the response to the COVID-19 pandemic and other common objectives.

Supporting facts and figures

• Canada has a diplomatic presence in 23 African countries, maintains 18 bilateral development programs and a regional development program.
• In 2018-19, Canada provided over $2.5 billion in international assistance to Africa.
• Canada has committed to increase the share of bilateral international assistance provided to Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) to 50 per cent by 2021-2022.  
• In 2019, Canada had $9.7 billion in two-way merchandise trade with Africa.
• Canada has nine Foreign Investment Promotion and Protection Agreements (FIPAs) in force with Benin, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Côte d'Ivoire, Egypt, Guinea, Tanzania, Mali, and Senegal.
• SSA was home to six of the top ten fastest growing economies in the world before the pandemic, but the region is expected to suffer its first recession in 25 years.
• Once implemented, the new African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) will enhance regional economic integration and will be a key part of the continent’s economic recovery from the pandemic.
• In 2018-19, Global Affairs Canada provided $81.8 million in Peace and Security programming to Africa, of which $76 million was allocated 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 exercise 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 exclusive 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 Lincoln Sea maritime boundary dispute and the dispute over the sovereignty of Hans Island through the Canada-Denmark Joint Task Force on Boundary Issues, established in May 2018. 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 encourages the U.K. and EU to agree to the terms of their future relationship so that all stakeholders have as much certainty as possible prior to the end of the transition period.
• Canada accepts that it will interpret its agreements with the EU to include the U.K. during the transition period.
• Any future Canada-U.K. trade agreement should best reflect our bilateral relationship and must take into account the future U.K.-EU trade relationship, as well as any U.K. domestic approaches.

Supplementary messages

• Canada looks forward to maintaining and growing our relationships with both the U.K. and the EU.
• To ensure undisrupted continuity of its relations with the U.K., Canada has transitioned certain Canada-EU agreements into Canada-U.K. instruments.

Update

The U.K. ceased to be a Member State of the EU as of February 1, 2020, and is no longer represented in the EU institutions. However, during the Brexit transition period which currently is scheduled to end on December 31, 2020, the U.K. remains bound by the entire body of EU law and continues to access the benefits of EU membership. To date, the U.K. has refused to contemplate an extension of the transition period, and while it is facing pressure from stakeholders to reconsider, particularly given the economic impacts of COVID-19, it is unlikely to change its position.

Canada has agreed to continue treating the U.K. as an EU Member during the transition period in terms of its agreements with the EU. Key agreements such as the CETA, the Nuclear Cooperation Agreement, and the Air Transport Agreement will continue to cover our relationship with the U.K. in those areas until the end of the transition period. Following the transition period, however, Canada-EU agreements will cease to apply to the U.K. New instruments between Canada and the U.K. will replace certain key Canada-EU agreements. Since 2017, line departments and agencies of the Government of Canada have been discussing such instruments with their U.K. counterparts in the event of a no-deal Brexit and, for the most part, have new instruments ready to enter into force at the end of the transition period.

U.K. Global Tariff (UKGT) and Possible Implication for Canadian Exporters

On May 19, 2020, the U.K. published its Most-Favoured Nation (MFN) applied tariff schedule (UKGT) that it intends to apply when the Brexit transition period ends and the U.K. leaves the EU single market, as soon as January 1, 2021. As published, and in the absence of an extension of the Brexit transition period or a bilateral preferential trade agreement, Canadian exporters would be subject to the UKGT. Compared to EU MFN applied tariff rates (i.e. “pre-CETA” rates), which the U.K. currently applies, the UKGT is more liberal. Under the UKGT, 94.6% of average Canadian exports from 2017-2019 would enter the U.K. MFN duty-free. However, gold exports (duty-free) account for 64% (or $12.4 billion of $19.2 billion) of average Canadian exports. Removing gold from trade totals, the percentage of Canadian exports that would enter the UK duty-free decreases to approximately 84%. During the Brexit transition period, the CETA continues to apply to the U.K. Beyond transition, discussion on any potential Canada-U.K. agreement should reflect our bilateral relationship and take into account the future EU-U.K. trade relationship, as well as any unilateral U.K. approaches.

Canada-CARICOM relations

• Canada has committed $5.8M to respond to bilateral requests for COVID-related assistance from the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).
• Canada has committed to further strengthen these relationships, including through high-level engagement and the establishment of a Canada-CARICOM Dialogue. The inaugural officials’ level Dialogue will take place on June 17, 2020.
• The participation of the Minister of Foreign Affairs at the February 2020 CARICOM Intersessional Heads of Government meeting and COFOR ministerial meeting on May 8, 2020 reinforced Canada’s commitment to the region, including through $61.5 million in support.

Supplementary messages

• Canada recognizes the vulnerability of Caribbean states and we collaborate with CARICOM member states on priorities throughout the region, including climate and economic resilience, trade and investment, regional security and gender equality.
• The $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 four million Canadians visit the Caribbean annually, contributing to the region’s tourism industry. There are also significant numbers of Caribbean travelers that come to Canada and over 800,000 Canadians are of Caribbean origin. In 2019, more than 12,600 work permits and 3,244 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

• Canada is deeply concerned by arbitrary detention/arrest of Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor - we call for their immediate release.
• Canads is extremely concerned China has sentenced Mr. Schellenberg and Mr. Fan to death. Canada opposes the death penalty in all cases, everywhere and seek clemency for Canadians concerned.
• We continue to raise cases with China at highest levels, and continue to provide consular services to individuals and their families.
• Due to Privacy Act, no further information can be disclosed.

Supplementary messages

Consular cases in China - 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

• 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 freedoms), without seeking escalation.
• Pursuing economic opportunities and cooperation on global issues (e.g. climate change, health).
• Working to re-frame bilateral relationship – no 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, including arbitrary detention of Canadians, as well as shift in Canadian public opinion towards China.
• Need to increase collaboration with allies/partners to defend rules-based international order.
• Canada is concerned about the future of Hong Kong’s autonomy and the “One Country, Two Systems” framework, of particular importance due to a large Canadian population and business presence in the Region.
• 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 unofficial people-to-people, trade and investment ties with Taiwan.

Update

GAC officials, in consultation with other departments, are preparing advice on re-framing Canada’s approach to relations with China. The work of various Parliamentary committees, alongside other sources and stakeholders, continues to inform this work.

Supporting facts and figures

• China is Canada’s third largest trade partner (at 3.9% of exports), and offers further economic opportunities. It is also an essential partner in the global commons (e.g. the fight against COVID-19, climate change, finance).
• China poses challenges to Canada’s national and economic security, as well as core democratic values, including the adoption of an assertive foreign policy under President Xi, as demonstrated by its use of aggressive political and economic levers to punish Canada. Other policies affect Canadian interests and values, such as the progressive encroachment on Hong Kong’s autonomy and freedoms.
• China is also making efforts to shape 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, Xinjiang).
• These developments, amid a broader challenging geo-strategic context, require a re-assessment and reframing of Canada’s approach to China.

Erosion of Hong Kong’s autonomy

• Direct imposition of national security legislation on Hong Kong, without the engagement of its own institutions as provided for under the Basic Law, would unnecessarily undermine the confidence of the people of Hong Kong, as well as of the international community, in the integrity of the “One Country, Two Systems” framework.
• This action will threaten protection of rights and freedoms and exacerbate rather than reduce the existing deep divisions in Hong Kong society, at a time that calls instead for building mutual understanding and reconciliation.
• Canada is assessing the impact on the legitimacy of the “One Country, Two Systems” framework and its relationship with Hong Kong and the PRC.

Supplementary messages

• Canada has raised its deep concern with Chinese authorities regarding the proposal to introduce national security legislation.
• Canada, Australia and the UK issued a joint statement on May 22, another statement was issued with the US, the UK and Australia on May 28.
• Canada urges all sides involved in the current crisis to exercise restraint, to refrain from violence and to engage in peaceful and inclusive dialogue.
• 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

China has announced that it will impose national security legislation in a process that circumvents the legislative channels of Hong Kong. The legislation would likely criminalize a wider range of politically-related activities and greatly shrink the range of freedoms Hong Kong citizens have traditionally enjoyed, notably those related to freedom of association and expression. The decision by Beijing to proceed unilaterally and without the consent of the Hong Kong people comes in response to months of civil unrest in 2019 and comes at a time when Covid-19 is keeping Hong Kong citizens off the streets. Canada will be undertaking a review of its existing relationship with Hong Kong, to determine whether it merits continuation or adjustments for the future.

Supporting facts and figures

• An estimated 300,000 Canadians are living in Hong Kong and Canada has a significant business presence in the Special Administrative Region.
• Hong Kong is a major investment partner for Canada, acting as both a source of investment and as a hub mediating investment flows from third party countries (most notably China).
• In 2019, Hong Kong ranked as Canada’s tenth largest market for merchandise exports ($4.0 billion). Canada’s services exports to Hong Kong totalled $1.8 billion.
• Multilaterally, Canada and HK cooperate in international organizations, such as the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum and the World Trade Organization.
• Hong Kong has expressed interest in FTA negotiations with Canada since 2007 and has increased advocacy for such an initiative over the past 2 years.
• Canada’s recommendation in the Human Rights Council’s 2018 Universal Periodic Review of China was “Ensure the right of the Hong Kong people to take part in government, without distinction of any kind”, which was accepted by 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 and Xinjiang. Freedom of religion or belief is also challenged. Arbitrary detention/sentencing, including as a political and diplomatic tool, presents particular risks for Chinese and foreign citizens alike.
• 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 is also deeply concerned with China’s proposal to circumvent the legislative channels of Hong Kong and impose national security legislation without the engagement of Hong Kong’s own institutions as provided for 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. Prime Minister Trudeau and Minister Champagne 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 accusations of police brutality by Amnesty International and the media.

Meng Wanzhou arrest and U.S. extradition request

• Canada is a rule of law country with an independent judiciary. 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 or politicize the rule of law and due process.

Update

On May 27, 2020, the BC Supreme Court dismissed Ms. Meng’s argument that dual criminality (for Canada to extradite an individual, the foreign charges must amount to a criminal offence in Canada) does not apply in her extradition case. The extradition process will therefore proceed. This will 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.

Canada-China agriculture trade

• Regaining full market access for Canadian canola seed a top priority for the Government of Canada.
• The Government is closely monitoring economic developments related to the COVID-19 outbreak, including the impact on Canada’s agriculture exports to China.
• Canada remains committed to trade diversification to increase our export opportunities.

Supplementary messages

Canola

• Canada looks forward to further technical engagement with China as we seek to restore full access for Canadian canola seed exports.
• Canada remains committed to trade diversification to increase our export opportunities.

COVID-19 and Impact on Agriculture Trade

• A number of agriculture exports continue to be affected by reduced demand – 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. From January to April 2020, Canada-China bilateral trade declined 15.1% from $31.8 billion to $27 billion YTD. In the same period, Canada’s exports declined 10.5% ($7.8 billion to $6.9 billion), imports declined 16.4% ($24 billion to $20.1 billion), and the trade deficit narrowed to $13.1 billion (a decline of $3.1 billion).

Canola: In March 2019, China suspended canola seed shipments from two major Canadian exporters, Richardson and Viterra, and increased inspection of all Canadian canola seed exports to China, citing alleged discovery of pests. Canada’s canola seed exports to China have fallen approximately 70%, with exports decreasing from $2.8 billion in 2018 to $859.2 million in 2019. As of April 1, 2020, Customs China indicated that it will permit the continued trade in Canadian canola seed for shipments with a dockage level of less than 1%, however Customs China has not reinstated the two suspended Canadian canola companies. Technical engagement is ongoing related to both the suspended companies and the new dockage requirements.

China-U.S. “Phase One” Trade Deal: The “Phase One” agreement entered into force on February 14, 2020 with a requirement that China purchase an additional $200 billion of U.S. goods and services in 2020/2021 compared to 2017 levels. COVID19 has lowered consumer demand in China and disrupted trade flows, leading to concern in the U.S. that China will not be able to buy the additional $200 billion in U.S. goods and services. The purchases so far have been behind the pace needed to reach the target of the first year’s $76.7 billion increase. On May 8, 2020, China’s Vice-Premier Liu He met by phone with U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) Robert Lighthizer to discuss the ‘Phase One’ agreement. After the call, USTR made a statement that “both sides agreed that good progress is being made on creating the governmental infrastructures necessary to make the agreement a success” and further that “both countries fully expect to meet their obligations under the agreement in a timely manner”.

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 continued restrictions and 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, and the exercise of navigation and overflight rights in accordance with international law, including respect for the rights and jurisdiction of coastal States, 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 months China has established new administrative districts to cover two disputed island chains in the SCS, shadowed a Malaysian vessel undertaking natural resource exploration in waters that are claimed by Malaysia, Vietnam and China, and reportedly sank a Vietnamese fishing boat. Regional tensions have heightened as several ASEAN countries as well as Australia and the U.S. have publically criticized recent Chinese actions.

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.

Belt and Road Initiative

• Canada has not taken a position on China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
• Canada calls on China to address the concerns raised by the international community around transparency, governance and financial sustainability in future BRI projects.
• We support opportunities for Canadian companies to engage in global infrastructure initiatives that seek quality and professionalism, all while respecting international standards on transparency and governance.

Supplementary messages

• • In the context of COVID-19, some already heavily-indebted BRI countries are facing even further economic challenges. Canada is closely monitoring the situation.

Update

According to Chinese State Councillor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi, despite the disruption caused by COVID-19, China’s investment in BRI countries increased by 11.7% and trade increased by 3.2% in Q1 2020. China is now also proposing a “Health Silk Road” to deal with global health issues.

Supporting facts and figures

• The BRI was codified into the Constitution of the Communist Party of China following the 19th Party Congress in October 2017. This strategy will influence China's economic planning, overseas investment and foreign policy for years.
• According to China's National Development and Reform Commission, as of May 2020, 138 countries and 30 international organizations have signed 200 cooperation agreements under the BRI, the aggregated trade with BRI countries has surpassed US$6 trillion and 244,000 new jobs have been created for the participating BRI countries.
• So far, Canada's official engagement regarding the BRI is limited to the inaugural meeting of the Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation (BRF) in May 2017 in Beijing, where Canada was represented by Parliamentary Secretary for International Trade, Pamela Goldsmith-Jones.
• The second BRF was held April 25-27, 2019 in Beijing. Thirty-six Heads of Government or Heads of State reportedly participated. The Government of Canada was not invited to participate.

Background

In 2013, President Xi Jinping announced a pair of new development and trade initiatives for China and the surrounding regions later known as BRI. The reaction to the BRI has been mixed. While recipient countries generally welcome funding from China for much needed infrastructure build-out, there are questions about China’s geopolitical motives, concerns over whether BRI projects are economically and financially sound, whether China is practicing “debt trap diplomacy”, and whether BRI projects conform to global standards on environmental protection and labour.

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Consular cases

• We are closely monitoring developments in this case.
• Canada is providing consular assistance to individual and the family.
• Due to Privacy Act, no further information can be disclosed.

Supplementary messages

Case of Paul Whelan (Russia)

• We are deeply concerned by the conviction of Paul Whelan by a Russian court and by the severe sentence imposed on him.
• Canada calls upon Russia to ensure a fair and transparent appeal process free of political interference.
• We will continue to work with our partners from the U.S., the U.K., and Ireland to provide consular assistance to Mr. Whelan and his family.

Case of Yasser Ahmed (Egypt)

• Global Affairs is actively engaged on the case of Mr. Ahmed and is providing consular services to him and his family.
• Minister Champagne and Canada’s Ambassador to Egypt continue to raise this case at every opportunity with their counterparts, including this week.
• We continue to monitor Mr. Ahmed’s well-being and to advocate for a fair and transparent legal process in his case.

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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CUSMA / Softwood lumber / Aluminum

• Canada is committed to working with our NAFTA partners to ensure a smooth and effective transition to the new Agreement.
• Canada continues to defend exporters facing trade actions, including those in the softwood lumber sector.
• Canada will work with the United States and Mexico to increase monitoring of offshore imports of aluminum into the NAFTA region.

Supplementary messages

CUSMA Entry into Force

• Reinforcing our strong economic relationships with the U.S. and Mexico is important to Canada’s ongoing economic prosperity and the integration of the North American production platform.
• Canada will continue to lead efforts to complete the important trilateral work that is required to bring the Agreement into force on July 1, and provide predictability and stability for businesses and workers in all three countries.

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 of Canada has repeatedly assured dairy, poultry and egg producers and processors that they will be fully and fairly supported for market losses.
• The Government has temporarily suspended its Comprehensive Review on the Allocation and Administration of Tariff Rate Quotas (TRQs) for Dairy, Poultry and Egg Products due to the impact of COVID-19 on stakeholders.
• The Comprehensive Review, including public consultations will resume in the future at an appropriate time.

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.
• Canada continues to believe that an agreement that brings stability to the softwood lumber industry is in the best interests of both countries.
• 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.

Democratic People’s Republic of Korea

• Canada continues to be deeply concerned by the grave threat posed to international peace and security by North Korea’s weapons of mass destruction and ballistic missile programs.
• Canada condemns North Korea’s launches of ballistic missiles, all of which are contrary to UN resolutions and only raise tensions on the peninsula.
• Dialogue and diplomacy represent the only path to security, stability and economic prosperity for the North Korean people.

Supplementary messages

• Canada continues to call on North Korea to completely, verifiably and irreversibly dismantle its WMD and ballistic missile programs.
• Until that is achieved, international pressure through the implementation of the UN Security Council’s sanctions on North Korea remains essential.
• We remain deeply concerned by the human rights situation in North Korea and urge the country to abide by international human rights standards.
• Canada provides humanitarian assistance to affected persons in North Korea through experienced multilateral partners; no assistance is provided via the North Korean government.

Update

Despite extensive international efforts to isolate North Korea, constrain its economy, and counter its WMD proliferation, Pyongyang has markedly improved its nuclear weapons and ballistic missile capabilities in recent years and is continuing to do so. The last missile launches took place on April 14th, but March 2020 saw the largest number of missiles launched by North Korea in a single month. Reports from UN agencies in 2019 have highlighted the worsening humanitarian situation in North Korea, including significant food shortages due in part to droughts, which have resulted in the lowest levels of food production in more than a decade. While North Korea officially claims to have no cases of COVID-19, there are indications the country is battling infections. Experts are concerned that that an outbreak of the virus in North Korea could quickly deteriorate into a humanitarian emergency.

Supporting facts and figures

• Since 2005, Canada has provided over $38.9 million in humanitarian assistance.
• In 2020, Canada is providing $1.25 million, via the World Food Program and UNICEF to address high levels of under-nutrition and food insecurity in DPRK.
• Since 2011, Canada has imposed autonomous sanctions on DPRK under the Special Economic Measures Act, including a full export and import ban (subject to certain humanitarian exceptions) and a ban on the provision of financial services and technical data to DPRK.

Export permits and LAVs

• In November 2018, Canada announced a review of all arms exports to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
• Global Affairs Canada has carefully assessed whether military goods exported from Canada to Saudi Arabia would be used in a manner consistent with the Arms Trade Treaty and Canada’s domestic legislation, and has concluded that there is no substantial risk that they would be used inappropriately.
• Accordingly, new permits to Saudi Arabia are being reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

Export Development Canada loan

• In August 2019 the Government announced its intention to provide a repayable loan of $650 million to General Dynamics Land Systems – Canada (GDLS-C) to support them to navigate a challenging and dynamic international defence market.

Responsives

• The loan was provided to support GDLS-C maintain and support thousands of jobs not only in Southwestern Ontario but across the entire defence industry supply chain.
• EDC administers the Canada Account on behalf of the Government of Canada for transactions the Government deems to be in the national interest. Transactions are financed through the Consolidated Revenue Fund of Canada.

Supplementary messages

• A thorough assessment of the sale of Light Armoured Vehicles (LAVs) to Saudi Arabia has been 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.
• Permits will not be issued where the Minister of Foreign Affairs determines there to be substantial risk that they could be used to commit or to facilitate serious violations of international humanitarian law, international human rights law, or serious acts of gender-based violence.

Update

The review of all arms exports to Saudi Arabia, including LAVs, has concluded and export permits for Saudi Arabia are being reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

Supporting facts and figures

• No valid export permits to Saudi Arabia were suspended or cancelled.
• Canadian companies holding valid permits to Saudi Arabia were still able to export.
• Global Affairs Canada processes more than 6,000 permits annually.
• In 2019, Saudi Arabia was the largest non-U.S. export destination for Canadian military goods, at approximately $2.864 billion (or 76% of the total value of non-U.S. military exports).
• Ground vehicles and their components accounted for 75% of all controlled military exports from Canada in 2019 ($3.018 billion).

Feminist foreign policy

• Before COVID-19, Canada had made respect for human rights, gender equality, the empowerment of women and girls, and inclusion core priorities at home and abroad.
• The pandemic has only reinforced these priorities and has shaped our COVID-19 response through the lens of our Feminist Foreign Policy. Minister Gould and I have engaged civil society representatives recently to discuss this in detail.
• We continue to pursue our commitment to strengthening the foundations of our Feminist Foreign Policy by working with civil society to develop a white paper.

Supplementary messages

• COVID-19 affects people differently. Absent careful attention to the gender dimensions of this crisis, through the use of gender-based analysis plus (GBA+), COVID-19 will exacerbate existing inequalities and vulnerabilities – risking decades of progress combating poverty and advancing empowerment and inclusion.  
• Advancing gender equality and inclusion remains an effective way to foster prosperity, create lasting peace, achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goals, and promote human rights while fighting the pandemic.
• 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.
• Canada has been extremely active diplomatically in responding to the pandemic and has been a leader in making sure that gender equality considerations are reflected in international discussions including at the UN, G7, G20, in the Ministerial Coordination Group it established, and in the Alliance for Multilateralism and OECD.  

Update

On 7 May, Ministers Champagne and Gould held a Virtual Roundtable with 14 Canadian civil society organizations (CSOs) to discuss Canada’s feminist response to the pandemic. Participants encouraged Canada to maintain its global feminist leadership as part of an integrated and comprehensive approach to COVID-19. There was convergence in messaging among CSOs, especially on the following themes: support for civil society and women’s rights organizations; economic impacts, human rights, sexual and reproductive health and rights, sexual and gender based violence, LGBTQI, and women peace and security. The Ministers reiterated their commitment to strengthening the foundations of Canada’s Feminist Foreign Policy by working with civil society to develop and launch a White Paper in this regard. This targeted dialogue process will, at least initially, take place on a digital platform due to the pandemic.

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 (WPS), supported by the Ambassador for Women, Peace, and Security, Jacqueline O’Neill, and the Elsie Initiative for Women in Peace Operations; and  
  • Defence Policy, “Strong, Secure, Engaged”.

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.

Supporting facts and figures

• 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 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

• Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Canada and India have  collaborated bilaterally and multilaterally, and have held six calls at the prime minister- and ministerial-levels.
• Canada continues to closely follow developments around the Citizenship Amendment Act in India. [REDACTED]
• We are closely following developments in Jammu and Kashmir and remain concerned about the risk of escalation, restrictions on telecommunications and preventative detentions.

Update

In response to the COVID-19 crisis, Canada and India have worked together in ensuring the global supply of critical medical supplies and pharmaceuticals; supporting one anothers’ repatriation efforts; and advancing multilateral cooperation through the UN, WHO, G20, and other fora. The visit of Indian External Affairs 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”.

International security, democracy and human rights

Canada’s contribution to UN peace operations

• Canada is working to deliver 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.
• Canada is actively championing efforts to advance conflict prevention, political dialogue, conflict resolution, peacebuilding, and the Women, Peace and Security agenda.
• Canada strongly supports the UN Secretary-General’s call for an immediate global ceasefire due to COVID-19 pandemic. Canada is taking steps to ensure the health, safety and security of its personnel deployed on UN missions.

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

COVID-19 is now present in all countries hosting UN peace operations. Its impact is far-reaching, straining limited resources and placing new demands on the UN to support response efforts. To date no deployed Canadian personnel are known to have contracted COVID-19. The UN Department of Peace Operations continues to request mission-critical enablers, like helicopters and mobile forces, that advanced militaries can provide.

Supporting facts and figures

• Funding: Since 2016, Canada has invested approximately $72M 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. 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 was also the largest single donor of voluntary extra-budgetary funds to the UN Department of Peace Operations in 2018.
• 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: According to UN statistics (April 2020), Canada ranked 77th out of 120 Troop and Police Contributing Countries to UN peace operations, with 35 uniformed personnel deployed (10 police – 6 male and 4 female; 25 military – 17 male and 8 female) in support of five UN missions: MINUSMA (Mali), MONUSCO (DRC), UNFICYP (Cyprus), UNMISS (South Sudan) and UNTSO (Middle East). One civilian (male) is also deployed to the MINUSCA-supported Special Criminal Court in the Central African Republic.
• Women comprise 40% of Canadian police and 32% 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 Peacekeeping Operations (C34): As chair of the C34, Canada led a multi-country effort to operationalize the A4P initiative and align Member State policy recommendations with A4P reform objectives.
• Peacebuilding Commission (PBC): As chair of the PBC, Canada is strengthening the PBC's mandate and capacity to provide advice on inclusive, coherent UN engagement in fragile and conflict-affected situations, including essential capacities for UNSC-mandated peacekeeping and special political missions.

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

• 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 PM appointed Jacqueline O’Neill as Canada’s first Ambassador for WPS to drive further Canadian leadership and enhance implementation of Canada's National Action Plan on WPS.
• Since her appointment, 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. In consultation with key government partners, civil society and other stakeholders, she has positioned her office to be a key resource for supporting the implementation of Canada’s National Action Plan on WPS.

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 second was tabled in Parliament on June 10, 2020. It outlines 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 and COVID-19.

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.
• 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

The Minister of Foreign Affairs introduced C-9, An Act to amend the Chemical Weapons Convention Implementation Act on March 10, 2020.  This legislation helps to align Canada’s domestic implementing legislation with our international commitments. 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 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.

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 continues to advocate for transparency, accountability, justice, and compensation on behalf of the families and loved ones of those who perished in the downing of Flight PS752. Canada and the other countries of the International Coordination and Response Group continue to press Iran for the download and analysis of the flight recorders.
• Canada is committed to holding Iran accountable for its destabilizing regional activities through targeted sanctions and diplomatic means.
• Canada 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.

ATIP protected background

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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 2019.
• 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 holds 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 (2013-present). If the recent February 2020 elections are an indication, with an overwhelming hardline majority elected, the trends will continue to worsen.

Flight PS752

• Families of the victims are at the heart of the Government of Canada’s efforts. By working for accountability, justice, and transparency in the safety and criminal investigations, we are helping families and loved ones have the answers they deserve.
• Issues associated with aviation accidents are complex and take time to be resolved or settled. It could be years before Iran makes full reparations for its actions, including in the form of compensation for the victims of PS752.
• Canada continues to work closely and remains united with the other members of the Coordination Group to achieve accountability, justice, compensation, and a full, independent and transparent investigation.

Supplementary messages

• Canada is highly disappointed that 5 months have passed since the downing, yet the flight recorders have not been analyzed, nor has Iran provided an update on the safety investigation to International Civil Aviation Organization. The Minister of Transport raised the PS752 investigation at the ICAO Council meeting on June 10.
• Canada and the Coordination Group countries are finalizing the Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation concerning the negotiations on reparations with Iran.
• The Prime Minister appointed the Honourable Ralph Goodale as his Special Advisor to examine lessons learned from Flight PS752 and other air disasters and to develop a framework to guide Canada’s responses to international air disasters and provide recommendations on best practices, including advice on tools and mechanisms needed to prevent future events.
• The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Goodale and Global Affairs Canada’s PS752 Task Force have been in regular communication with the families of the victims since January and will continue to do so for as long as it will be necessary.

Background

Canada and the Coordination Group countries are finalizing the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Cooperation concerning the negotiations on reparations with Iran. This MOU sets out the terms of reference for Ukraine’s prominent role as the Negotiating Spokesperson and creates an Advisory Committee consisting of all members of the Coordination Group who will be present during the negotiations and will support the work of the Spokesperson.

Before negotiations can begin, another MOU will have to be negotiated among the Coordination Group members to set out the group’s common negotiating position, which will be a guide for the Spokesperson and the Advisory Committee during the negotiations with Iran. Iran has expressed an interest in compensating victims equally without regard to nationality. In preparations for this MOU, Canada will have to conduct an analysis and evaluation of the claims linked to Canada.

Israeli-Palestinian conflict

Potential Israeli annexation of parts of the West Bank

• Canada remains firmly committed to a two-state solution achieved through direct negotiations between the parties.
• Canada is extremely concerned that if Israel moves forward with unilateral annexation it would be damaging to peace negotiations and contrary to international law.
• This could lead to further insecurity for Israelis and Palestinians at a critical time for peace and stability in the region.

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’s longstanding position is that we do not recognize permanent Israeli control over territories occupied in 1967, including the West Bank.
• Consider the unilateral acquisition of territory to be contrary to international law, including the Charter of the United Nations.
• Have expressed our clear concerns over the possibility of annexation directly to Israel at the highest levels.
• Unilateral action by either side is unhelpful to the cause of peace.

Background

The probability that annexation will occur in the coming months has increased following the inauguration of the Netanyahu-Gantz coalition government on May 17.  The coalition agreement identifies July 1, 2020 as the earliest date that legislation on annexation may move forward. This agreement builds on the U.S. Vision for Peace, which proposes permanent Israeli control of up to 30 percent of the West Bank. Should Israel opt to unilaterally annex parts of the West Bank, this action would be considered by most countries to be prohibited under international law, and therefore directly challenge the rules-based international order. It would also seriously imperil the prospect of a viable two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, which is a longstanding policy objective for Canada and the international community.

Canada’s policy on annexation is clear: Canada does not recognize permanent Israeli control over territories occupied in 1967, including the West Bank. Canada has, and will continue to engage with Israel, the Palestinian Authority and other leaders in the region to ensure that Canada’s position is understood clearly and expressed effectively to a broad set of stakeholders.

PM Trudeau notably relayed Canada’s concern publicly on June 3, and directly to Israeli PM Netanyahu and Alternate PM Gantz on May 18 and 19 respectively. Minister Champagne also expressed Canada’s concern to Israel Foreign Minister Ashkenazi on June 2.

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.
• From 2016 to 2019, Canada provided a total of $110 million to support Palestinian refugees through the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees (UNRWA).

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 welcomes any efforts that can help bring the parties back to the negotiating table.
• 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, security, recognition) should be negotiated directly between the parties.
• We oppose unilateral actions, which undermine prospects for peace.

Update

The US Vision for Peace was released in its entirety on January 28, 2020. The plan addresses the key final status issues (Jerusalem, refugees, borders, security, 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 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.

Supplementary messages

• In 2015 and 2018, Canada submitted our position regarding the lack of jurisdiction to the International Criminal Court (ICC).
• 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 (ICC) 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.

ATIP protected background

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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

• The Prime Minister 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 2020 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 Palestinian 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.

United Nations Resolutions on the Middle East

Every year, resolutions addressing the Arab-Israeli conflict are tabled at the UN. Canada assesses each resolution on its merits and consistency with our principles. We support resolutions that are consistent with Canadian policy on the Middle East, are rooted in international law, reflect current dynamics, contribute to the goal of a negotiated two-state solution to the Arab-Israeli conflict, and address fairly and constructively the obligations and responsibilities of all parties to the conflict. Canada advocates for a fair-minded approach and rejects one-sided resolutions and any politicization of the issues. Canada believes that the United Nations and its member states have a responsibility to contribute constructively to efforts to resolve the Israeli-Arab conflict. Canada will continue to examine carefully each of these resolutions as they come forward.

NATO

• In responding to the COVID-19 pandemic, NATO continues to deliver credible and effective deterrence and defence. Its ability to conduct operations has not been undermined.
• Canada is proud to uphold security and stability in the Euro-Atlantic area through tangible contributions to NATO, including our command of NATO Mission Iraq (NMI); leadership of the enhanced Forward Presence (eFP) battlegroup in Latvia; and our contributions to the NATO Standing Maritime Group and to NATO Air Policing.

Supplementary messages

• While Canada recognizes that NATO is not a front line responder, Allies have a responsibility to work together to protect against and to limit the spread and impact of COVID-19.
• A number of NATO Allies and Partners have requested assistance through NATO in their fight against COVID. Canada has been able to respond positively to some of these requests, and stands ready to do more.
• 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, and will serve as Framework Nation of NATO’s enhanced Forward Presence (eFP) battlegroup in Latvia until 2023.
• We are pleased that former Canadian National Security and Intelligence Advisor to the Prime Minister Greta Bossenmaier was appointed to the NATO group of experts for the newly stood-up NATO strategic 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

NATO has been implementing robust measures to limit the spread of COVID-19, to reduce risks to Allied soldiers, civilians and communities, and to ensure that the Alliance’s essential work - to maintain deterrence and defence for Allied nations - continues. NATO’s ability to conduct operations is unimpaired. NATO is also working to combat the spread of COVID-19, including through joint-strategic airlift capabilities, capacity-building for managing the pandemic in-country, military hospital capabilities and medical support for Allies in-need.

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 230 troops to the mission. NMI training activities have been temporarily suspended since early March due to COVID-19 and the escalated security environment in Iraq.
• Canada’s annual assessed contribution to NATO was approximately $212.3 million in 2019-2020, making it the sixth largest financial contributor to NATO.
• As laid out in Strong, Secure and Engaged, Canada’s spending on defence should reach 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.

Official development assistance levels

• In 2018-2019, the Government of Canada disbursed $6.1 billion in international assistance, of which $5.9 billion was official development assistance (ODA). According to preliminary 2019 figures, Canada reported $6.2 billion of ODA to the OECD Development Assistance Committee (DAC).
• Canada announced $2 billion of new resources to international assistance over five years starting in 2018–2019 in Budget 2018; and, an additional $700 million for 2023–2024 in Budget 2019.
• While the volume of ODA is key to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, notably for least developed countries and fragile states, Canada also places strong priority on ensuring the quality and effectiveness of its assistance, and 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 scale of global needs.

Update

Since February 11, 2020, the Government of Canada has committed $166.5M from the International Assistance Envelope to support the global response to COVID-19. This funding builds on Canadian leadership in supporting essential health services around the world such as: $600M from 2021 to 2025 pledged to Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance; $650M from 2017 to 2020 for sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR); and, $6.35B from 2010 to 2020 for maternal, newborn and child health (MNCH). Prior to the pandemic, Canada announced a scaling-up of global health investments, including SRHR, to $1.4B per year by 2023.

Supporting facts and figures

• The OECD Development Assistance Committee (DAC) calculates member country’s ODA volume and ODA/GNI ratio based on all official sources of ODA (including provinces, municipalities) on a calendar year basis, whereas Canada reports to Parliament on federal ODA, and on a fiscal year basis.
• On a calendar year basis, according to preliminary numbers, Canada’s ODA rose by $139M in 2019 compared to 2018. This is largely attributable to an increase in the International Assistance Envelope (IAE) that was announced in Budget 2018 to provide an additional $2B over five years to support the Feminist International Assistance Policy, and an exceptional payment to the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) by Finance Canada.
• According to 2019 preliminary figures, Canada remains the 9th largest DAC donor in absolute terms at $6.20B, and remains 16th in terms of ODA/GNI at 0.27% (down from 0.28% the year before, reflecting GNI growth outstripping ODA growth).
• 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 (over 10 years) to improve the safety and security of our people abroad. This is done through enhanced intelligence gathering, security training and more resilient infrastructure.
• While the impacts of COVID-19 on missions abroad continue to be felt, including limitations on travel and movements, critical security services continue to be provided and alternative mitigation is in place.

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.
• 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. 77% of these are fully implemented and 23% are on track for completion.

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 (36 of which were lifecycle replacements) and 62 missions have received various security equipment such as CCTVs, metal detectors, or security screening (X-ray) machines.
• The Department has now achieved full compliance for mandatory Hazardous Environment Training by staff assigned to critical threat missions.

Rohingya – Canada’s response

• Canada remains deeply concerned by the ongoing violence in Myanmar and the displacement of over 850,000 Rohingya to Bangladesh since August 2017.
• Our Strategy dedicates $300 million over three years to address humanitarian, development, peace and stabilization needs. It places emphasis on women and girls, and initiatives that promote human rights, peace and security, gender equality, and human dignity.
• As we enter the third year of the strategy, as of May 2020, $268.4 million has been committed specifically towards the strategy.

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 funding supports the provision of emergency food, nutrition, health care, water and sanitation, shelter and protection services, among others, for Rohingya refugees.
• Accountability remains a top priority of Canada’s response to this crisis, as most recently demonstrated by our commitment to explore options to support the Gambia’s case against Myanmar at the International Court of Justice.
• As part of Canada’s announcement of $159.5 million to support the COVID‑19 international response, $500,000 was allocated to the Myanmar Humanitarian Fund. This is in addition to Canada’s existing response.

Update

Repatriation of Rohingya remains highly unlikely in the short or medium term due to a sharp escalation in violence in Rakhine State, displacing over 160,000 since January 2019. National elections in Myanmar in 2020 are expected to spark further ethno-nationalism and hate speech. Rohingya in both Myanmar internally displaced persons’ (IDP) camps and the Cox’s Bazar refugee camps in Bangladesh are highly vulnerable to the spread of COVID-19 given congested living conditions.

Supporting facts and figures

• Approx. 600,000 Rohingya remain in Myanmar, roughly 125,000 in 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.
• The $268.4 million committed towards the Strategy to date includes humanitarian assistance ($95.6 million), as well as peace, security and development initiatives ($172.8 million) in Myanmar and Bangladesh.

Russia / Ukraine

• Resolute in support of Ukraine’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and efforts to join Euro-Atlantic community.
• Canada is making 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 U.S. 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.

Supporting facts and figures

• Leaders of the “Normandy Four” (Ukraine, Russia, Germany, France) last met in December 2019. While there were no major breakthroughs, the agreements appeared to serve as confidence-building measures.
• 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 have trained more than 16,000 Ukrainian security personnel.
• In February 2019, Operation UNIFIER was extended until 31 March 2022. Under the renewed mandate, GAC 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.
• 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 divisions in order to induce policy paralysis within democracies.
• 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) 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.
• The Government of Canada seeks to avoid unintended adverse effects of sanctions through the use of humanitarian exemptions for certain activities. Additionally, Global Affairs Canada is accelerating permit and certificate applications related to the global health crisis.

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.

Background

Through the use of targeted sanctions measures, the Government of Canada strives to minimize adverse consequences for civilian populations and for legitimate business, humanitarian, or other activities. The Government of Canada also mitigates unintended humanitarian consequences of sanctions through legislated exceptions for certain activities, and through the permit and certificate processes, enabling the Minister of Foreign Affairs to authorize activities which would otherwise be prohibited, including implementing any related UN Security Council exemptions or decisions, as required.

The 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. These individuals are also inadmissible to Canada under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act.

The 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 (ex. U.S., EU). There are SEMA sanctions on 11 countries: Iran, Libya, Myanmar, Nicaragua, DPRK, Russia, South Sudan, Syria, Ukraine, Venezuela, and Zimbabwe.

Canada is legally required to implement sanctions imposed by the UN Security Council under Chapter VII of the Charter of the United Nations. These sanctions are implemented in Canadian law by adopting regulations under the United Nations Act. 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).

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 cases of Mr. Raif Badawi and others 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 raised Canada’s ongoing and serious concerns about Mr. Badawi when he spoke to King Salman and the Crown Prince.
• Canada will continue to raise concerns about human rights with Saudi Arabia at every appropriate opportunity.

Update

Saudi Arabia’s ongoing human rights violations remain a predominant concern for Canada. Despite some recent announcements in April, which Saudi Arabia is framing as improvements on human rights, including changes to laws related to flogging and the death penalty for minors, Saudi Arabia continues to perpetuate grave human rights violations.   

Supporting facts and figures

• Raif Badawi’s wife, Ensaf Haidar, and their three children are Canadian citizens and reside in Sherbrooke, Quebec.
• Recent reports from the New York Times and the Washington Post have shed light on the difficulties being encountered by Saad Al-Jabri, a former top Saudi intelligence officer who now resides in Canada. Both articles discuss pressure tactics, including the arrest and imprisonment of a son and daughter still residing in Saudi Arabia, being used by the Saudi government as leverage to force Al-Jabri to return to Saudi Arabia from Canada.  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.”

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

• It is unfortunate that Saudi Arabia has chosen to restrict the bilateral relationship. Canada remains open to a resolution of this dispute which is consistent with the respect for Canadian values.
• Canada has chosen not to institute reciprocal measures to prevent any further escalation.

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.

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 for November 2020.

Supporting facts and figures

• Despite the dispute, Saudi Arabia is Canada’s largest two-way trading partner in the Middle East and North Africa 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.

For information pertaining to the export controls review, see separate note provided on that topic.

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

In response to the COVID-19 crisis, the Saudi Presidency has convened a series of special meetings, including an Extraordinary G20 Leaders’ Summit on 26 March. Since March, KSA has also convened: three meetings of G20 finance ministers and central bank governors; two meetings of G20 trade and investment ministers; and meetings of G20 health, energy, agriculture, employment and labour, tourism, and digital economy ministers. At their April 15 meeting, G20 finance ministers and central bank governors released a G20 action plan detailing the group’s efforts to mitigate the impacts of the crisis.

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.
• The Saudi Presidency had initially planned to host 12 ministerial meetings.
• In response to the COVID-19 crisis, the Presidency has added a series of special virtual meetings, with 11 additional ministerials completed to-date.
• 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 is expected to take place in November 2020 in Riyadh.

Syria

Syria crisis and peace talks

• Canada condemns in the strongest terms the deliberate targeting of civilians by the Syrian regime and its supporters.
• Canada welcomes Turkey and Russia’s recent efforts to de-escalate the fighting in Idlib, including the March 5 ceasefire.
• 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

In early March, Turkey and Russia agreed to a ceasefire in Idlib. While initially expected to be brief, the ceasefire has been sustained at least partly due to COVID-19 concerns, although it is expected that the regime will eventually resume attacks on Idlib. In the meantime, at least 140,000 civilians have returned as the ceasefire continues to hold.

Supporting facts and figures

• Since December 2019, hundreds of civilians have been killed as a result of regime airstrikes and over 960,000 people displaced.
• Regime and Russian airstrikes continue to target medical and educational facilities.
• On February 28, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Minister of International Development issued a joint statement condemning the attacks on Idlib targeting civilians and civilian institutions, and calling for an immediate ceasefire.
• On March 5, Turkish President Erdogan and Russian President Putin agreed to a ceasefire in Idlib, which established a “security corridor” and joint Turkish-Russian patrols.
• As of June 3, Syria’s Ministry of Health reported 123 confirmed cases of COVID-19: 41 individuals have recovered and five have died.

Background

Despite an early January 2020 ceasefire agreement, the Syrian regime, with Russian air support, relaunched its ground offensive to capture opposition-held territory in the 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 a direct confrontation with the Syrian regime and 55 Turkish deaths. This offensive has resulted in nearly 960,000 displaced persons 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 UNSC is set to vote on the renewal of UNSCR 2504 in early July 2020, where Russia is expected to try to further reduce the scope of access. 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. However, the regime has agreed to return to the constitutional committee negotiations once the pandemic subsides.

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. This is exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Reached out to Syrian Kurdish officials to seek information on Canadians in custody. Continue to monitor the situation closely.
• Due to the Privacy Act, no further information can be disclosed.

Supplementary messages

Consular case of orphan child

• We are aware 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 child’s family in Canada and are working with them on this sensitive and complex situation.
• Despite the many challenges, we are continuing to evaluate options to assist further in this case as we continue to advocate for the child's health and safety.
• 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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United Nations Security Council campaign

Canada’s United Nations Security Council campaign (UNSC)

• This COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated that none of us can address global challenges 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.
• Canada would play a positive and constructive role on the Security Council, leveraging our membership in many international institutions and networks.  Our focus on economic security for the most vulnerable and on strengthening multilateralism will be the two keys to the global recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.

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 25 May 2020, CAD $2.340 million has 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.

UNSC Vote – Positive result – First round

• Canada is deeply thankful for the confidence that has been placed in us.
• Canada looks forward to joint efforts with our international partners to build a more peaceful, inclusive and sustainable world.
• Canada congratulates both [Norway / Ireland] for their [win / efforts on an admirable campaign.]

Supplementary messages

• If voted to the Security Council, Canada would bring forward the key issues we highlighted in our campaign: sustaining peace, addressing climate change, promoting economic security, advancing gender equality, and strengthening multilateralism.
• The global COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated that no country can defeat this virus on its own. Now more than ever, multilateralism is crucial for our collective health and economic recovery. As a consistent supporter of the multilateral system, you can count on Canada to advocate for a post-COVID global system that is better prepared to serve all countries.
• Canada is deeply committed to the implementation of the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals at home and abroad.
• Our chairing of the UN Peacebuilding Commission in 2020, illustrates our leadership on peacebuilding and the constructive role we will play on the United Nations Security Council.

Background

The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) will hold elections for non-permanent members on June 17, 2020. Canada is campaigning for a seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) as a non-permanent member for the 2021-2022 term.

Voting will take place between 9am and 1:30pm (EST) on June 17.  While the voting process is taking place, there will be no media engagement, and the communications approach will be subdued. Further communications/media engagement will take place only after the election concludes.

It is expected that the results will be announced by the President of the General Assembly (PGA) from the podium at 4pm. Three other elections are taking place at the UN on this day, so this may delay the announcement of results.

Canada wins a seat by successfully meeting two conditions: 1) comes first or second in the overall number of votes cast, and 2) obtains support of at least two-thirds of those UN member states present and voting (129 votes if all 193 members are present).

UNSC vote – Positive result – Subsequent rounds

• The voting for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for the 2021-2022 term is ongoing.
• Congratulations to [Norway / Ireland] for winning in the first round of voting. We look forward to receiving the results of the second round.
• If elected as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council, we will listen to and work constructively with Council colleagues, all UN member states, and the world community to realize its potential.

Supplementary messages

• If voted to the Security Council, Canada would bring forward the key issues we highlighted in our campaign: sustaining peace, addressing climate change, promoting economic security, advancing gender equality, and strengthening multilateralism.
• The global COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated that no country can defeat this virus on its own. Now more than ever, multilateralism is crucial for our collective health and economic recovery. As a consistent supporter of the multilateral system, you can count on Canada to advocate for a post-COVID global system that is better prepared to serve all countries.
• Canada is deeply committed to the implementation of the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals at home and abroad.
• Our chairing of the UN Peacebuilding Commission in 2020, illustrates our leadership on peacebuilding and the constructive role we will play on the United Nations Security Council.

UNSC vote – Negative result

• Although we are disappointed by the outcome, we have no regrets and strongly believe that Canada has benefitted from listening and learning from other countries during this campaign.
• We wish to congratulate [Norway / Ireland], as well as [India, Mexico, and Kenya / Djibouti] on their election. We look forward to working closely with them and thank all member states for engaging with us throughout the campaign.
• Throughout the campaign, we have listened and learned from other countries, and we have opened new doors for cooperation to address global challenges. This will serve Canada well moving forward.

Supplementary messages

• As we move forward, we will continue to work closely with all partners, new and old, traditional and unconventional, to shape the global agenda.
• Canada will continue to work to sustain peace, address climate change, promote economic security, advance gender equality, and strengthen multilateralism.
• We have led important discussions on financing the Sustainable Development Goals and on the importance of economic security for conflict prevention, and we will continue to do so at the UN and in other forums.
• Canada will continue to strongly support multilateral action and the UN to support cooperative global solutions that only these platforms can deliver.

United States

Canada-United states relations

• Strengthening Canada’s place in North America remains a top priority for our government.
• Ongoing close cooperation with the United States is a key element to our economic recovery from the pandemic.
• Canada is committed to working with our NAFTA partners to ensure a smooth and effective transition to the new Agreement on July 1.

Supplementary messages

• The close and productive ties built by parliamentarians with the United States administration, Members of Congress, subnational leaders, and other American influencers are crucial, especially in the context of the pandemic.

Supporting facts and figures (Statistics in Canadian Dollars)

• Canada and the United States enjoy the largest trading relationship in the world in terms of trade in both goods and services. In 2019, $473 billion worth of Canadian goods and services went to the United States (62 percent of Canada's total exports). Canada imported $515 billion of goods and services from the United States, making us its largest single export market (71 percent of Canada’s total imports).
• Canada is the largest, most secure, foreign source of energy for the United States (including oil, natural gas and hydro-electricity). In 2019, Canada’s energy exports to the United States were over $120 billion, and in 2018 the United States was the destination of 89 percent (by value) of Canada’s total, global energy exports. In 2019, Canada supplied the United States with 56 percent of its crude oil imports, 98 percent of natural gas imports, and 88 percent of electricity imports.
• Since 2017, the PM, Ministers, Parliamentarians and Premiers have undertaken over 400 visits to the United States to advocate for Canadian interests.
• The PM last spoke with President Trump on April 16 during a virtual G7 meeting on cooperation during the pandemic.

Background

Economic recovery: Smooth and effective implementation of CUSMA is key to our economic recovery as is ensuring that North American supply chains remain strong. Efforts by the United States government towards reshoring manufacturing and supply chains present both risks and opportunities for Canadian companies.

Trade: Canada’s efforts are now focused on preparations for CUSMA’s entry into force on July 1, 2020. The United States continues to initiate Section 232 investigations on whether certain imports threaten United States national security, which may impact bilateral trade.

North American Energy Security: Energy will be a major component of economic recovery post-COVID-19. Key to this is an ongoing high-level dialogue with the United States on a North American approach to market stability and price recovery to ensure support for our respective industries.

Border Management: Canada is assessing how the temporary border restrictions on all non-essential travel may be adjusted as we approach the June 21 expiry date(see separate Border Issues note).

Anti-black racism and U.S. protests

• Canadians grieve the tragic loss of George Floyd.
• Prejudice, discrimination, and violence are a reality for too many racialized communities, religious minorities and Indigenous Peoples.
• Canada’s efforts to challenge racism at home and abroad are part of our commitment to build more inclusive societies.

Supplementary messages

• Canada is watching, listening and learning from the peaceful protests. We call on everyone to refrain from violence.
• At home in Canada and in international forums, we are working hard to support human rights, inclusion, and the rule of law.
• Freedom of opinion, expression, peaceful assembly and association are cornerstones of safe and prosperous societies.
• We must also protect the fundamental role of the press, ensuring that journalists are free to do their work safely.

Supporting facts and figures

• In 2019, Canada launched a $45 million federal anti-racism strategy to combat racism and discrimination.
• Through its Digital Citizenship Initiative, Canada has invested $3 million to fund projects that counter COVID-19 disinformation, including xenophobia and racism.

Background

Death of George Floyd: On May 25, 2020, George Floyd, a 46-year-old African American, was killed in Minneapolis, Minnesota, during an arrest. Derek Chauvin, a white police officer, knelt on Floyd's neck for almost nine minutes while Floyd was handcuffed and lying face down in the street. Chauvin was charged with second-degree murder and the three other officers on the scene were charged with aiding and abetting second-degree murder.

Protests: Floyd’s death set off protests in Minneapolis that swiftly spread to cities across the U.S. and around the globe, including Canada. Democratic Minnesota Governor Walz contextualized the protests as frustration with long-standing social, civil rights and economic grievances facing the African-American community. There have been instances of journalists harmed by police while covering the protests, including CBC journalist Susan Ormiston. Over 10,000 people in the U.S. have been arrested. Minneapolis officials announced their intent to defund and disband the city's police force, which has sparked similar debates in other cities on defunding the police and investing more in marginalized communities where much of the policing occurs.

Federal and State Responses: President Trump has taken a law-and-order approach, including proposing to invoke the 1807 Insurrection Act (which was opposed by Secretary of Defense Esper) to deploy active-duty U.S. troops to respond to the civil unrest. Multiple U.S. states have activated their National Guards to support law enforcement. Joe Biden has condemned President Trump’s response to protestors. House Democrats are expected to pass their Justice in Policing Act, which includes a series of police reforms in response to the killing of George Floyd. How it will be received by the GOP-controlled Senate is unclear.

Canadian Responses: On June 2, the PM made a statement in the House of Commons commenting on the “horrific reports of police violence against black men and women south of the border”. On June 5, the PM took a knee during an anti-racism rally held in honour of George Floyd on Parliament Hill. Canada’s Ambassador to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) delivered on June 4 a well-received statement on racism and the protests in the U.S., following consultations with and a statement by the U.S. delegation. Canada will address racism at the Human Rights Council on June 16/17 (date TBC).

Venezuela

• Deeply concerned by the worsening crisis in Venezuela and its destabilizing effects on the region.
• Strongly condemn ongoing repression, political persecution, and human rights violations by the illegitimate Maduro regime.
• Proud to have hosted the Lima Group ministerial meeting on February 20, 2020, where we called on the international community to united its voice for a peaceful return to democracy in Venezuela.
• Canada recently co-convened a Venezuelan migration pledging conference at which we contributed $27M in humanitarian and development assistance.
• 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

• As the region struggles to respond to the migration crisis, the pandemic is creating additional pressure on already weakened systems and infrastructures.
• Venezuelans in Venezuela, face an increasingly alarming humanitarian crisis, marked by malnourishment, poor access to health care, vulnerability to disease outbreaks and a lack of economic opportunities.
• Canada has committed almost $80M since 2019 in humanitarian and development programming to help respond to the effects of the Venezuela crisis.

Update

We continue our outreach to key international partners to discuss a way forward towards a united call for change.On May 26, 2020, Canada participated as a co-convener in a virtual donor’s conference hosted by Spain and the EU to mobilize funds for the humanitarian crisis in Venezuela and the region. Canada contributed $27M in assistance. On June 1, an internal agreement was signed between the regime, the opposition and PAHO to coordinate a response to COVID-19.

Supporting facts and figures

• As of June 4, there are 1,902 confirmed cases and 20 COVID-19-related deaths in Venezuela. A collapsed economy and health care system mean Venezuela is at risk of being among the worst hit by the pandemic in the Americas.
• Unemployment is estimated to be 50%; and 90% of the population lives below the poverty line.
• Over 5 million people have fled Venezuela since 2015, many in neighbouring countries, such as Colombia (1.8 million), Peru (861,000), and Ecuador (363,000).
• Canada’s sanctions do not target Venezuela as a country, but the individuals who have committed human rights abuses, and/or significant acts of corruption.
• Canada does not import crude oil from Venezuela. There are currently no Canadian-owned mining companies operating in Venezuela.

Yemen

• Canada remains deeply concerned with the escalation of violence in Yemen and the impact of COVID-19. We urge all parties to de-escalate hostilities, commit to a political dialogue, and halt the tragic loss of life.
• In 2020, Canada is disbursing $40 million to respond to the humanitarian needs of people in Yemen, building on the $180 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

• Canada supports the UN-led process led by Special Envoy Griffiths, which seeks to achieve a cessation of hostilities and a political transition in Yemen based on principles of inclusivity and respect for human rights.
• Canada’s activities in Yemen focus on diplomatic engagement, humanitarian aid, and peacebuilding and stabilization programming.
• We continue to monitor the humanitarian situation in Yemen closely and will respond further as appropriate.
• Canada is concerned about the disproportionate effects that the conflict continues to have on women and girls.

Update

Since the UN Secretary-General’s call for a general ceasefire globally, followed by a unilateral ceasefire announced by Saudi Arabia, efforts for a nationwide ceasefire in Yemen have not materialized. The security situation remains extremely concerning following a renewed escalation in violence since early 2020. The overall humanitarian situation is deteriorating further due to the spread of COVID-19. UN Special Envoy Martin Griffiths continues engaging in negotiations with the parties, identifying and building on points of convergence, and proposing compromises where differences remain. The Southern Transitional Council’s declaration of self-administration on April 25 is of concern as military tensions are now rising among the disparate factions in the south.

Supporting facts and figures

• On June 2, the UN and Saudi Arabia co-hosted the annual Yemen humanitarian pledging event virtually. Minister Gould represented Canada and announced Canada’s $40 million contribution for 2020. Canada’s funding to UN agencies, the Red Cross/Red Crescent Movement, and NGOs will provide food, healthcare, clean water and sanitation.
• According to the UN, 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.
• The COVID-19 crisis is expected to further exacerbate the already disproportionate impact of the conflict on women and girls by reducing their ability to access essential services and health care and by increasing the risk of domestic sexual and gender-based violence.

5G review

• 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 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.