Prime Minister Stephen Harper today issued the following statement on the implementation of further sanctions against Iran through the Special Economic Measures Act:
“Iran continues to ignore successive UN Security Council resolutions which call for it to cooperate fully with the International Atomic Energy Agency and suspend its enrichment activities. Therefore, building upon last month’s UN Security Council Resolution 1929, the Government of Canada is implementing new regulations aimed at restricting Iran’s nuclear program and preventing the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMDs).
“These sanctions are in no way intended to punish the Iranian people. These targeted measures are designed to hamper attempts by Iran to develop nuclear, chemical, biological and missile programs as well as to persuade it to agree to constructive discussions with China, France, Germany, Russia, the United Kingdom and the United States. These sanctions also send a message to all states — particularly those with nuclear aspirations — that international standards cannot be flouted without consequence.
“The sanctions bar dealings with designated individuals and entities involved in nuclear or WMD proliferation, including key members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. They ban new investments in Iran’s oil and gas sector and the export of goods to Iran that could contribute to nuclear proliferation. They also prohibit Iranian financial institutions from establishing a presence in Canada and vice versa.
“Canada strongly urges Iran to address the serious concerns raised by the military dimensions of its nuclear program and meet its international nuclear obligations.” more >>
Prime Minister Stephen Harper issued the following statement today on the death of a Canadian soldier in Afghanistan:
“It is with great sadness that I extend my condolences, and those of all Canadians, to the family and friends of Sapper Brian Collier who died while conducting a patrol in Afghanistan. Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this difficult time.
“The bravery and remarkable commitment of Canadians like Sapper Collier are bringing safety and stability to the people of Afghanistan.
“Canada and its international allies continue to secure and rebuild Afghanistan through this UN-mandated mission. The Government of Canada is proud of our Canadian Forces. Every day, their dedication and work protect our interests and values here at home and around the world.
“Sapper Collier’s sacrifice will not be forgotten.”
Prime Minister Stephen Harper today participated in the opening ceremonies of the 13th International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) World Junior Championships in Athletics in Moncton, New Brunswick. He was joined by Gary Lunn, Minister of State (Sport).
“The 13th IAAF World Junior Championships represent a tremendous opportunity for Canadian athletes to shine, and for Canada to play host to the world once again,” Prime Minister Harper said. “On behalf of all Canadians I thank the organizers and volunteers for bringing this world-class event to Moncton.”
More than 1,400 athletes and team officials from more than 170 countries will participate in various track and field events at the World Junior Championships, which take place July 19 to 25. The biennial IAAF World Junior Championships are open to junior athletes, aged 19 and under in the competition year, and will include 44 medal events over six days. This is the largest sporting event to be held in Atlantic Canada, and the second time Canada has hosted the games. Approximately 50,000 spectators are expected to attend.
Events for the games will be held in the newly built 10,000-seat Stade Moncton 2010 Stadium, a joint project supported by the Government of Canada, the Province of New Brunswick, the City of Moncton, and the Université de Moncton.
“I encourage all visiting athletes, their families, team officials and supporters to visit the beautiful community of Moncton, and experience the splendour of New Brunswick,” the Prime Minister added.
Prior to the opening ceremonies, the Prime Minister took part in an unveiling of the design for a cornerstone that will commemorate the world-class Stade Moncton 2010 Stadium. The cornerstone includes the wording, “a legacy for the development of Atlantic Canadian athletes.” more >>
Prime Minister Stephen Harper issued the following statement on Spain’s victory at the FIFA World Cup being held in South Africa.
“On behalf of all Canadians, I would like to take this opportunity to offer my congratulations for the victory of Spain’s national team at the FIFA World Cup 2010 in South Africa earlier today.
“To people around the world watching this important sporting event, your national team offered an impressive performance and showed tremendous dedication, determination and talent.
“Canadians from coast to coast to coast have been following the World Cup with great enthusiasm and fervour. The passionate fan base across this country for each participating team is a vivid demonstration of both Canada’s multicultural heritage and the uniting power of sport, especially ‘the beautiful game.’
“This sentiment was captured brilliantly by Somali Canadian K’naan in his song ‘Wavin' Flag,’ which was adopted as the anthem of this year’s competition.
“I would also like to congratulate the Netherlands, the runners up, and indeed all participating teams for providing soccer fans in Canada and around the world with such exciting moments in sport.
“This exciting tournament has captured the imagination of soccer players and fans alike. We are all inspired by our shared goal of seeing Team Canada again in the World Cup and hopeful that it will be as soon as Brazil 2014!” more >>
Prime Minister Stephen Harper today filled a vacancy in the Senate, announcing the appointment of Salma Ataullahjan.
“I am pleased to announce the appointment of Salma Ataullahjan to the Senate of Canada,” said Prime Minister Harper. “A professional, artist, parent and strong activist for the South Asian community in the Greater Toronto Area, Ms. Ataullahjan brings a remarkable dedication and energy to her new role as a Senator for the Province of Ontario.”
Ms. Ataullahjan fills a single vacancy in Ontario. She has also pledged to support the Government in its efforts to make the Senate more democratic and accountable, including legislation to limit Senate tenure and to allow provinces to elect their Senators.
“In addition to coming from a family of political activists on the Indian Subcontinent, Ms. Ataullahjan’s political and social activism here in Canada has earned her a reputation of one who both stands against violence and stands for peaceful dialogue and consensus building,” said the Prime Minister. “As our Government continues working to promote safety and security both at home and abroad, I welcome the addition of Ms. Ataullahjan’s skills and experience to the Senate of Canada and look forward to working with her in the months and years ahead.”
Prime Minister Stephen Harper today issued the following statement saluting broadcaster Lloyd Robertson on the announcement of his retirement in 2011 as anchor of CTV National News:
“Lloyd Robertson’s final signature sign-off, ‘that’s the kind of day it’s been,’ will come in 2011, ending 35 years as anchor of Canada’s most watched nightly national newscast.
“Along with all Canadians, I congratulate Lloyd for a long career marked by fairness, objectivity and professionalism. For millions, Lloyd brought news of some of the most important occasions in the life our nation. His was a voice of truth, trust and, at times, compassion.
“Lloyd’s career began in 1952 at a radio station in his hometown of Stratford, Ontario before moving to a station in nearby Guelph. He made the jump to television in 1954 to work for the CBC in Winnipeg, made his way to Ottawa and in 1976 joined CTV where he co-anchored CTV National News until 1984 when he took over as anchor.
“A Member of the Order of Canada, Lloyd was also the first journalist to be inducted into Canada's Walk of Fame in 2007.
“Lloyd can look back upon a long a successful career with immense pride and satisfaction. Laureen and I extend to him and his wife Nancy our very best wishes.
“I offer Lisa LaFlamme sincere congratulations on her promotion to the anchor’s chair. It is a great honour, reflecting the esteem in which she is held as a veteran broadcaster.” more >>
Prime Minister Stephen Harper today welcomed a statement by the United Nations Security Council condemning the attack on the South Korean naval vessel Cheonan, which took place on March 26, 2010, and claimed 46 lives:
“Canada shares the deep concern expressed by Security Council members regarding the findings of the Joint Civilian-Military Investigation Group led by South Korea, which concluded that the North Korean regime was responsible for the sinking of the Cheonan.
“Canada, at the invitation of South Korea, sent three naval experts to participate in the multinational team that investigated the attack on the Cheonan, and which subsequently found that the ship was sunk by a North Korean torpedo.
“Canada, along with other G-8 leaders in Muskoka last month, condemned the attack by the North Korean regime as a challenge to peace and security in the region. We remain committed to cooperating closely with all international parties in seeking accountability for this brutal attack, and call for appropriate measures to be taken against those responsible for the attack in accordance with the United Nations Charter and all other relevant provisions of international law.
“We also welcome the restraint shown by South Korea and concur with Security Council members on the importance of maintaining peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula and in northeast Asia as a whole.” more >>
Prime Minister Stephen Harper and Brad Wall, Premier of Saskatchewan, today toured areas of Saskatchewan to view damage caused by recent heavy rainfalls and flooding. They were joined by Gerry Ritz, Minister of Agriculture, Agri-Food and Minister for the Canadian Wheat Board.
“Today I saw first hand the devastation caused by recent flooding on the prairies,” said the Prime Minister. “Western farmers can rest assured that our Government is standing by them and their families during this difficult time.”
The Government and the provinces of Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba today announced substantial relief for farmers dealing with income and production losses.
The joint AgriRecovery response — the largest and fastest relief package of its kind to date — will allow the federal and provincial governments to provide quick, targeted assistance to help farmers protect and restore damaged crop land and resume business operations. This funding builds on existing support available through Business Risk Management programs for farmers.
“Our farmers work hard through all conditions and circumstances to provide food for people across this country and around the world,” added the Prime Minister. “Our Government will help them recover from the exceptional circumstances caused by the rains and flooding.”
Farmers across Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba are facing extreme conditions as the result of torrential rains that fell the last week of May and beginning of June. The heavy rainfall has saturated fields, leaving countless producers dealing with flooded cropland or unable to seed their crops.
More information will be made available to affected farmers in the provinces as program details are confirmed. more >>
Prime Minister Stephen Harper today welcomed the appointment of David Johnston as the Governor General Designate. Mr. Johnston, a respected lawyer and academic, will assume his new duties as Governor General on October 1.
“Mr. Johnston has a strong record of public service, a broad base of support and an impressive list of achievements,” said Prime Minister Harper. “He has extensive legal expertise, a comprehensive understanding of government and a deep appreciation of the duties and tasks now before him.”
Currently serving as President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Waterloo, Mr. Johnston has also served as President and Vice-Chancellor of McGill University and has held teaching positions at several prominent Canadian universities, including the University of Toronto, Queen’s University and the University of Western Ontario. He has published extensively and has served as Chair, member or advisor to two dozen government agencies, boards and roundtables.
“David Johnston represents the best of Canada,” said the Prime Minister. “He represents hard work, dedication, public service and humility. I am confident he will continue to embody these traits in his new role as the Crown’s representative in Canada.”
The Governor General Designate was selected following extensive national consultations by an expert advisory committee. His exemplary record of public service has earned him the respect, support and admiration of many prominent Canadians in politics, government, academia, parties of all stripes, and in every region of the country.
Mr. Johnston resides outside of Waterloo, Ontario. He is married to Dr. Sharon Johnston. They have five children and seven grandchildren. more >>
Prime Minister Stephen Harper today announced the establishment of the Government of Canada’s Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships, a prestigious new program to attract and develop the world’s best and brightest postdoctoral researchers in Canada. The Prime Minister also announced support for the Next Einstein Initiative to encourage and develop the best young minds in Africa.
“To remain at the forefront of the global economy, we must invest in the people and ideas that will produce tomorrow’s breakthroughs," said Prime Minister Harper. “The Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships will give scholars in research institutions across the country the support they need to explore and develop their ideas to their fullest potential.”
The Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships are the latest initiative under the Government of Canada’s comprehensive, long-term National Science and Technology Strategy. The new program will establish Canada as a global leader in higher learning, research and science and technology development. Under the program, 70 new fellowships will be awarded each year, with funding provided through the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council, and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council.
The Prime Minister also announced the Government’s support for the Next Einstein Initiative, which will create a network of 15 centres of academic excellence across Africa in fields related to science and technology.
“Canada will make a substantial contribution to scientific and technological development in Africa by supporting the unique public-private partnership known as the Next Einstein Initiative,” the Prime Minister said. “This is a revolutionary approach to development. It aims to nurture the brightest minds in Africa so they can take a leading role in solving the complex challenges the continent faces in areas such as agriculture, health and finance.”
Canada’s contribution to the Next Einstein Initiative will help build long-term capacity in research in Africa, and encourage talented students to reach and fulfill their potential in math, science and technology.
Prime Minister Stephen Harper today delivered the following remarks at a dinner held in honour of Her Majesty The Queen:
"Thank you, Mr. Minister.
"Your Majesty, Your Royal Highness, "Distinguished guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,
"Tomorrow concludes Your Majesty’s twenty-second Royal Tour as Queen of Canada. Each of these occasions has been very much like a family gathering. Rituals are observed, milestones are celebrated, and bonds are strengthened.
"Your faithfulness to Canada over so many years has made a difference. It reminds us that our country itself is like a family. And that we have an extended family around the world, in the Commonwealth. In 1973 in this very place, Your Majesty said you 'would like the Crown in Canada to represent everything that is best and most admired in the Canadian ideal.' In this you have succeeded marvellously!
"Throughout your reign you have been a constant voice for mutual understanding and tolerance. And as head of the Commonwealth, a strong advocate for freedom, democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. And we believe there are no virtues, no values, more Canadian than these! I would like to take this opportunity, Your Majesty, to offer a personal word. It is said that the endurance of the Crown depends on 'magic.' Observing your service to Canada throughout my lifetime, I believe the reality is simpler than that, and much more powerful.
"The enduring strength of the Canadian Crown is the result of your hard work and devotion. And the affection and esteem in which you are held by Canadians are very real, and indeed profound. I spoke recently with a young man who saw Your Majesty and Your Royal Highness on a walkabout here in Toronto, during the Golden Jubilee Tour. Your Royal Highness spoke with the young man, who is from London, Ontario. The young man told me, 'I was impressed.' He said some things about my own hometown that even I’d forgotten. 'They know this country better than anyone.'
"You know this country and its people, having met countless Canadians of every background and way of life. And, while you make it look effortless, we know that it is not. But it is inspired by your devotion to Canada. A devotion we would all do well to copy. We no longer speak as often as once we did, of the importance of doing one’s duty. But by your unfailing example, you have shown us the power of that virtue! Your Majesty, Your Royal Highness, as tomorrow we see you off, allow me, on behalf of all Canadians to thank you for being with us, yet again, and to wish you a safe journey. Ladies and gentlemen, it is customary on such occasions that an official gift be given.
"Her Majesty and His Royal Highness were delighted to learn that a donation would be made in their name to support the well-being of families of the Canadian military, those of current and former members of the naval forces of Canada and children from economically disadvantaged homes.
"I am very pleased to announce, therefore, that in the name of Her Majesty and His Royal Highness, the Government of Canada will make substantial gifts to the True Patriot Love Foundation, the Royal Canadian Naval Benevolent Fund, and the Tim Horton Children’s Foundation. Finally, no family gathering is complete without a bit of nostalgia. Your Majesty is no stranger to Canada’s favourite sport, having attended your first hockey game here in Toronto, in 1951.
"In 2002, Your Majesty made history as the first monarch to open a hockey game, by dropping the ceremonial puck in Vancouver. As the saying goes, the crowd went wild. I am happy to announce that that wonderful moment has been incorporated in a new display to be housed in the Hockey Hall of Fame. And within that display, Your Majesty, is a personal gift to you, to mark your latest Royal Tour of Canada. By way of explanation, as Queen of Canada, you share in the recent triumph of our Canadian Olympic hockey champions. And so, I say you are not only 'victorious, happy and glorious,' – you are also Canada’s Most Valuable Player!
"I now ask Your Majesty to officially unveil this new tribute to Canada’s favourite sport.
"Ladies and gentlemen, will you please charge your glasses, and rise for the Loyal Toast to Her Majesty, Queen of Canada.
Prime Minister Stephen Harper today issued the following statement:
“Our Government is committed to protecting Canada’s youth and children from unscrupulous marketing practices by the tobacco industry.
“Last October’s successful passage of the Cracking Down on Tobacco Marketing Aimed At Youth Act delivered on that commitment. It was victory for the health of our children and youth from coast to coast to coast.
“As of July 5th, this legislation will come into full force. It will be illegal for retailers in Canada to sell cigarettes, little cigars and blunt wraps which contain specific additives or flavourings aimed at enticing children and youth. Compliance with these rules will be monitored and enforced in no uncertain terms. Adherence to the spirit of the legislation will also be monitored, and, if necessary, the legislation will be revisited.
“Today, I call on all Canadian tobacco retailers and manufacturers to respect both their legal obligations and the spirit of this legislation.
“As Canadians proudly witnessed at the Vancouver Olympic and Paralympic Games this past winter, there is no limit to the golden potential Canadian children and youth. That is why our Government continues to encourage Canada’s children and youth to get active, stay healthy, and stay away from tobacco products of any kind.”
Prime Minister Stephen Harper today made the following remarks at the Canada Day celebrations on Parliament Hill :
“Thank you. Your Majesty, Your Royal Highness, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen. “Greetings to fellow Canadians here on Parliament Hill, across our country, and around the world on this, the 143rd anniversary of Confederation.
“Happy Canada Day!
“And Your Majesty, welcome to this spectacular party and, on behalf of all Canadians, welcome back to your home away from home! We are delighted to have our sovereign with us on this special occasion.
“I know you will want to join me in extending a warm greeting to Her Excellency the Governor General, Michaëlle Jean, who is representing us as we speak at a very special Canada Day ceremony taking place at the World Expo in Shanghai.
“Ladies and gentlemen, this past year has been a great one for our country. We hosted the most vibrant Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games of all time! And at those Olympic and Paralympic Games, our fantastic athletes set a record for the most gold medals that any nation has won at any Winter Games ever!
“Canada also hosted the G-8 and G-20 Summits, during which the world’s leaders determined the next steps on the road back to global prosperity. “And, as Canada chairs the G-8 and G-20 nations, we are leading the world, beginning the recovery from the global recession in the strongest economic position of any country in the world!
“And, of course, in Haiti, Afghanistan and elsewhere, Canada is making a positive difference in the world, through the work of our diplomats, our development workers, and the men and women of the Canadian Forces!
“Ladies and gentlemen, we should be proud of our history and our heritage. We have a noble heritage. The richness of the land first inhabited and fully appreciated by our aboriginal peoples. The steadfast determination and continental ambition of our French pioneers, who were the first to call themselves ‘Canadians.’
“The courage and vision of the British adventurers and loyalists, who brought with them our institutions and our freedoms under the Crown. And, of course, the faith of every immigrant man and woman, from every corner of the globe, who, with the world to choose from, has declared, ‘I will be a Canadian.’ They have made us all the true north, strong and free!
“On behalf of my family: Laureen, Ben, and Rachel; and on behalf of the entire Government of Canada, I wish each and every one of you a wonderful Canada Day!
Prime Minister Stephen Harper issued the following statement to mark Canada Day:
“My best wishes to fellow Canadians across the country and around the world on the 143rd anniversary of our great country. It is a privilege and an honour to be hosting Her Majesty The Queen and His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh on this national day of celebration. Their presence makes this a special Canada Day indeed.
“Canada Day is a time for Canadians of all ages to reflect on what we have accomplished as a nation, especially this past year. We hosted world-class Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games where our athletes won the most gold medals in the history of any Winter Games, including the first gold medal won on Canadian soil. We hosted back to back G-8 and G-20 Summits promoting our values and economic leadership on the world stage, including championing a maternal, newborn and child initiative that will help save millions of lives in developing countries. And we also led the world in responding to the Haiti earthquake, taking swift and decisive action to help the country deal with the immediate aftermath of the disaster and mobilizing world efforts to help rebuild the country and forgive its outstanding debt.
“On this day I would also pay tribute to those brave Canadians Forces members and Canadian civilians working in Afghanistan and other countries around the globe to make this world a safer, better place. We continue to be enormously proud of your accomplishments and our thoughts and prayers are always with you.
“On behalf of my family, Laureen, Ben and Rachel, and on behalf of the Government of Canada, I wish everybody a Happy Canada Day and encourage all Canadians to join in celebrations marking the birth of our great country.
Prime Minister Stephen Harper issued the following statement today at the beginning of the nine-day Royal Tour of Canada by Her Majesty The Queen of Canada and His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh:
“It is a privilege and an honour to welcome Her Majesty and His Royal Highness back to Canada. We are pleased that Her Majesty is coming to see us in a year when Canada is shining on the world stage, both as host of the 2010 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games and, most recently, as host of the G-8 and G-20 summits.
“The Royal Tour gives Canadians the opportunity to reflect on how far we have come as a nation as well as on the important role that Her Majesty continues to play as our Head of State.
“On this Royal Tour, Her Majesty The Queen will celebrate and commemorate Canada — past, present, and future — at several events and ceremonies taking place across the country. It will also provide Canadians with an opportunity to honour The Queen’s life of duty and service as we prepare to celebrate in 2012 The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, the 60th anniversary of Her Majesty’s accession.
“During the Royal Tour, Her Majesty and His Royal Highness will attend an International Fleet Review in Halifax to commemorate the Canadian Naval Centennial, celebrate Canada Day in Ottawa, dedicate a cornerstone for the new Canadian Museum for Human Rights in Winnipeg, attend the running of the Queen’s Plate in Toronto and tour the RIM facility in Waterloo, Ontario.
“I know Canadians will participate in activities of the Queen’s 22nd Royal Tour of Canada with enthusiasm and will be inspired to learn more about our traditions and history while honouring our monarch.”
The Prime Minister’s Office issued the following statement today:
“On the margins of the Summit meetings in Canada this weekend, President Barack Obama and Prime Minister Stephen Harper noted the historic February 2010 memorandum of understanding between Premier Gordon Campbell of British Columbia and Governor Brian Schweitzer of Montana protecting the transboundary Flathead River Basin.
“They discussed how relevant U.S. and Canadian agencies, including the U.S. Department of the Interior and Environment Canada, working with representatives of the Province of British Columbia and the State of Montana, could support this understanding and could help ensure the sustained protection of the Flathead River Basin.” more >>
The Prime Minister of India, Dr. Manmohan Singh, visited Canada from June 26 to June 28 at the invitation of the Prime Minister of Canada, Mr. Stephen Harper. During his visit, Prime Minister Singh participated in the G-20 Toronto Summit and held bilateral discussions with Prime Minister Harper.
The two Prime Ministers, in reviewing the state of bilateral relations, welcomed the enhanced interaction in a broad range of areas, visits and other exchanges between the two countries. They expressed their desire to broaden and deepen economic, diplomatic, educational, scientific and cultural ties between India and Canada.
The two Prime Ministers also solemnly observed the occasion of the 25th anniversary of the bombing of Air India flight 182 “Kanishka” on June 23, 1985, in which 329 lives were tragically lost. They strongly condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and agreed to direct their respective Governments toward greater cooperation in counter-terrorism and security-related matters.
Reiterating the need for intensifying global cooperation in combating international terrorism, they called for an early conclusion and adoption of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism within the UN framework.
Prime Ministers Singh and Harper welcomed the signature of the Agreement for Cooperation in Peaceful Uses of Nuclear Energy, which will help facilitate civil nuclear cooperation between the two countries. They both committed to the ratification of the agreement and the completion of all remaining steps necessary to ensure its early implementation. They underscored the potential for mutually beneficial civil nuclear cooperation and trade.
The two leaders committed to expanding a range of activities and institutional frameworks that will contribute to the shared goal of increasing bilateral trade to $15 billion annually in the next five years. During Prime Minister Harper’s visit to India in November 2009, both countries had signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to establish a Joint Study Group to explore the possibility of a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement between India and Canada. The two Prime Ministers welcomed the conclusion of that report, in which the Joint Study Group identified substantial potential economic gains that both countries could achieve through such an agreement. The two Prime Ministers noted that the recommendations in the report will be examined by both countries and necessary processes for obtaining approvals will be initiated immediately and will aim to be completed by the end of October.
The Prime Ministers also announced their commitment to an annual dialogue on trade and investment between Canada’s Minister of International Trade and India’s Minister of Commerce and Industry. They also welcomed the possibility of an India-Canada CEO Roundtable later this year.
The two Prime Ministers looked forward to the early signing followed by ratification and implementation of the Social Security Agreement. They noted that the Foreign Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement was under negotiation and looked forward to its early conclusion.
These two agreements will make a significant contribution to the commercial and economic interaction between the two countries.
The Prime Ministers welcomed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on Earth Sciences and Mining and looked forward to signing a Memorandum of Understanding on Transportation, noting the scope for bilateral collaboration, trade and investment in the natural resources and infrastructure sectors.
Agriculture and agri-food cooperation represent another area of enhanced exchange and both leaders looked forward to the progressive implementation of projects identified under the January 2009 MOU.
The Prime Ministers recognized some of the greatest strengths in the relationship lie in the vibrant and longstanding people-to-people ties. In that regard they encouraged the expansion of linkages in key areas including education, academic relations, arts, culture, sports and tourism.
To further enhance the considerable momentum achieved in exchanges and collaboration amongst a broad range of higher education institutions in both countries, the Prime Ministers welcomed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on Higher Education Cooperation. This framework will facilitate academic exchanges, partnerships and mobility between higher educational institutions in the two countries.
The Prime Ministers also noted initiatives to link Canadian and Indian universities and colleges, including in curriculum development and the creation of Chairs and Centres for Indian studies at a number of Canadian universities, such as, for example, those in the process of being established at Carleton University and McGill University.
They also welcomed the initiative to organize the Festival of India in Canada in 2011, which would present a comprehensive range of Indian culture through performing arts, exhibitions, film festivals, food festivals, among others, as well as the upcoming exhibition of masterworks of Inuit Art from the National Gallery of Canada, which will be presented at the National Museum in New Delhi in the fall of 2010. They look forward to the Commonwealth Games in India in October 2010. To facilitate further co-operation in these areas, the Prime Ministers welcomed the signing of an MOU on Cultural Cooperation.
To achieve the goals set out in this joint statement, the two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to sustained political engagement and a structured exchange of high-level visits and regular dialogues between their officials. Building on the existing annual India-Canada Foreign Policy Consultations, Strategic Dialogues, Trade Policy Consultations, the Joint Working Group on Counter-Terrorism, the Agriculture Working Group, the Joint Science and Technology Cooperation Committee, the Environment Forum and the Energy Forum, they agreed to promote further policy exchanges between ministries and departments of both Governments. more >>
Prime Minister Stephen Harper made the following remarks on the closing of the G-20 Summit:
“Greetings once again. We arrived here amid growing concerns over the growth of sovereign debt. As we strive to build strong, sustainable and balanced economies, that is the issue we have had to tackle head-on, and we have arrived at firm targets for advanced economies on debt reduction and reducing debt-GDP ratios. The targets are a 50 per cent deficit reduction by 2013 and a debt-to-GDP ratio that should be at least stabilized or on a downward trend by 2016. Now, that said, all leaders recognized that fiscal consolidation is not an end in itself. There will be a continued role for ongoing stimulus in the short term as we develop the framework for strong, sustainable and balanced growth.
“In terms of the framework, we want to applaud a number of recent actions that are important downpayments on that framework, if I can use that term. First of all, the budget of the United Kingdom, which strongly tackled the British deficit, Chinese flexibility on exchange rates and the new U.S. law on financial sector reform. The G-20 Summit declaration that puts some of the meat on the bones of the framework of strong, sustainable and balanced growth will lead us to country level assessments as we approach the next meeting in Seoul.
“It’s also important to note agreement on ongoing and important financial sector reforms, specifically to increase the quality and quantity of capital standards, to enhance prudent and regulatory oversight and a commitment, most importantly, to accelerate this work and complete it by the summit in South Korea. I should note as well the issue of bank levies has been left to individual countries. There are important agreements on a number of other matters. I’ll just mention a couple: continued progress on anti-protectionism, we’ve agreed to extend the Washington standstill for another three years, and debt relief for the country of Haiti, which as you know, is an important priority for Canada. There is also some important work that’s been completed, I should mention as well, on reform of international institutions. That work will also continue as we move forward. The G-20 still has a lot to do to fully entrench recovery. The G-20 still has a lot to do to fully entrench the global recovery, but these are important steps forward, and as you know, they were steps that Canada has been seeking.” more >>
OTTAWA – Prime Minister Stephen Harper and Manmohan Singh, Prime Minister of the Republic of India, today witnessed the signing of a nuclear cooperation agreement and memoranda of understanding (MOU) on cultural cooperation, higher education and earth sciences and mining. They also welcomed the conclusion of a Canada-India joint study that lays the groundwork for bilateral free trade negotiations.
"Our two countries are laying the foundation to take relations to the next level motivated by our close friendship and complementary economies,” said Prime Minister Harper following bilateral discussions with Prime Minister Singh. “The initiatives signed today confirm that we are serious about expanding our relationship.”
The two leaders welcomed the conclusion of the report of the Joint Study Group on a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement. They also noted that the recommendations in the report would be examined by both countries, and necessary processes to obtain approvals will be initiated immediately and will aim to be completed by late October.
The bilateral agreements and MOUs signed today reflect increased and broadened collaboration between the two countries. They are:
A nuclear cooperation agreement which will provide access for Canada's nuclear industry to India's expanding nuclear market.
An MOU on higher education which will encourage the continued development of synergies between Canadian and Indian post-secondary institutions.
An MOU on earth sciences and mining which will foster improved dialogue on mining and related activities, including bilateral investment.
An MOU on cultural cooperation which will facilitate bilateral cultural initiatives, aid in the creation of economic opportunities for both Canada and India, and help showcase Canadian cultural content in India, and Indian cultural content in Canada.
The two leaders also issued a joint statement outlining a number of areas of cooperation in the bilateral relationship.
Prime Minister Stephen Harper today made the following remarks at the Opening Plenary session of the G-20 Summit in Toronto:
“Good day, ladies and gentlemen, and welcome to Canada and to the magnificent city of Toronto, which is our country’s largest city, and I would like to say, home of the most solid financial sector in the world. We are very pleased and proud to be holding the G-20 Summit.
“In welcoming you, I’d like to make a few observations about what we must achieve here. At Pittsburgh last year, the G-20 officially declared itself the world’s premier forum for international economic cooperation. Now with such a claim and with the global recovery that remains fragile, it is incumbent upon us to act with the same unity of purpose, the same sense of urgency and the same commitment to the enlightened exercise of our national sovereignty, as we did in the depths of the crisis in order to begin to develop a framework for strong, sustainable and balanced growth that we promised the world in Pittsburgh.
“The coordinated actions taken to date by the G-20 are producing positive results that are benefiting the entire world. However, the recovery remains fragile. To be frank, private sector demand is not yet where it should be in some of the G-20 countries.
“Since we last met, new risks have unearthed in the global economy. To cite a couple to which the IMF drew attention recently, fiscal deficits, debt level, debt levels in advanced countries, as well as the premature end to stimulus. I would add to these the need to follow through on regulatory reforms in the financial sector, and of course, the silence on protectionism. The recent skittishness of markets is telling us that they are awaiting our actions, actions that must be decisive, but also coordinated and balanced. Here is the tightrope that we must walk to sustain recovery. It is imperative we follow through on existing stimulus plans, those to which we committed ourselves last year, but at the same time, advanced countries must send a clear message that as our stimulus plans expire, we will focus on getting our fiscal houses in order.
“Financial consolidation plans must be credible. They must lay out easily understood objectives, and member countries must be accountable for achieving these objectives.
“Specifically, we should agree the deficits will be halved by 2013. We should also agree that government debt to GDP ratios should be stabilized by 2016 at the least, or put on a downward path.
“Since some of us will meet these objectives earlier, we should agree to consider them as minimum fiscal targets.
“Yet this fiscal consolidation will only succeed if we take concerted action across the G-20 to support global demand to tackle structural rigidities and unacceptably high rates of unemployment and reduced global poverty.
“The whole world is watching us, because the fate of millions of people depends on our actions.
“So what does success look like? According to my rough estimate, global output could be boosted by a cumulative 6.5 per cent over the next five years if we act in a coordinated manner and avoid pitfalls. This could raise global output rates by $4 trillion, the creation of 52 million new jobs and 90 million people lifted out of poverty.
“But if we fail to take decisive, coordinated and balanced actions, a bleak scenario might emerge where millions of people could lose their jobs. This is the responsibility we have, not only toward our constituents, but also toward all the citizens of the world. We must go on to lay the foundation for strong, sustainable and harmonious growth.
“Ladies and gentlemen, now as before, we must work and act together. Once again, welcome, and I hope all of our discussions will be productive.
Prime Minister Stephen Harper today made the following remarks on the closing of the G-8 Summit:
“Greetings, everyone. We had a very successful summit. We have refocused the G-8 on its strengths: development, peace and of course global security challenges. The G-8 has committed an additional $5 billion US over the next five years, and with our partners, as I mentioned yesterday, bringing the total to $7.3 billion on the Muskoka Initiative on Maternal, Newborn and Child Health. Accountability will be the key as we move forward, and as you know, we’ve put increased emphasis on that.
“We also discussed a further range of global challenges, nuclear proliferation, Iran, the implementation of sanctions foreseen by resolution, United Nations resolution 1929, also North Korea and the Cheonan incident. The governments of Iran and North Korea have chosen to acquire weapons to threaten their neighbours. The world must see to it that what they spend on these weapons will not be the only cost that they incur. We’ve also discussed Afghanistan, Pakistan, governance, stability in that particular region, of course the Middle East and climate change. It is essential that the G-8 keep its promises going forward. This is essential to the credibility and effectiveness of this forum as an organization.
“The G-8 has been reshaped and reenergized. Its members share common objectives in the world, and of course, now I look forward to meeting my colleagues of the G-20 in Toronto..”
Prime Minister Stephen Harper issued the following statement today on the deaths of two Canadian soldiers in Afghanistan:
“To the family and friends of Master Corporal Kristal Giesebrecht and Private Andrew Miller, who died yesterday while on patrol in Southern Kandahar, I offer my deepest condolences. Canada stands behind you in these most difficult and trying times.
“These soldiers served bravely while helping to build a stable Afghanistan. Our Canadian Forces members in Afghanistan daily face life-threatening situations that are created by an enemy who is working to undermine the building of a democratic and self-sustaining society.
“The courage and dedication demonstrated by Master Corporal Kristal Giesebrecht and Private Andrew Miller speak volumes about their pride in Canada and in creating a better country for the Afghan people.
“The commitment of our men and women in uniform is not diminished by these attacks. Their participation in the United Nations-mandated mission is a true reflection of our values: helping those in need and defending the interests of Afghan citizens.
“We are making a difference and the Government of Canada stands proudly with the Canadian Forces as they strive to protect Canadians, our interests and our values. This is a tragic loss for the Canadian Forces and all of Canada. Let us never forget Master Corporal Kristal Giesebrecht and Private Andrew Miller whose sacrifices served to bring hope to the oppressed people of Afghanistan.”
We, the Leaders of the G-8, reiterate our absolute condemnation of terrorism in all of its forms and manifestations, and our commitment to work together to eradicate this threat. Recent events, such as the attempted bombing on December 25, 2009 of the airline en route to Detroit and the brutal attacks of March 29, 2010 on the Moscow subway, are reminders of the terrorist threat. We express our deepest sympathies for lives lost and disrupted by these senseless acts.
Terrorism threatens people everywhere and undermines peace, stability and security. All acts of terrorism are criminal, inhumane, and unjustifiable irrespective of motivation. We condemn suicide bombings, and we abhor in particular the practice of recruiting the young or disadvantaged to carry out such acts. We deplore the upsurge in hostage-takings perpetrated by terrorists, as such abductions are repugnant to our fundamental notions of freedom, and we commit to work together to prevent their proliferation and bring those responsible to justice. We express our concern about the links of some terrorists to illicit drug trafficking and organized crime – we are determined to disrupt these partnerships of convenience. As highlighted at the Washington Summit on Nuclear security, nuclear terrorism is one of the most challenging threats to international security.
Terrorism will not be defeated by force alone. It is critical to address the conditions conducive to the spread of terrorism, and, in particular, that governments promote the rule of law, the protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms, democratic values, good governance, tolerance and inclusiveness to offer a viable alternative to those who could be susceptible to terrorist recruitment and to radicalization leading to violence. We are committed to helping countries address their basic development needs and meet the legitimate aspirations of their people. All peoples everywhere deserve security in their communities, education for their children, opportunity for employment and a sense of dignity and self-worth.
We reaffirm that full respect for human rights, fundamental freedoms and the rule of law is critical to an effective counter-terrorism strategy, and we reject the false choice between our security and our democratic values. All of our actions against terrorism must be consistent with the UN Charter and applicable international law. We reiterate the central role of the UN in the fight against terrorism and stress the importance of full implementation of the UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy and relevant UN Security Council resolutions. We strongly urge all states to join and implement the international conventions and protocols against terrorism. We welcome improvements to the UN al-Qa’ida and Taliban sanctions regime, most recently the adoption of UN Security Council Resolution 1904, and we underscore the importance of further progress in its implementation, and continuing work in support of fair and clear procedures.
Terrorism is a global threat that requires a global response. No single country or group of countries can hope to defeat terrorism. Since the attacks of September 11, 2001, extensive international cooperation has weakened the ability of terrorists to recruit, train, fund and execute attacks. We are committed to further enhancing international cooperation, by strengthening old partnerships and building new ones with governments, multilateral organizations and the private sector. We also recognize the crucial role of civil society in effective counter-terrorism efforts. We pledge to strengthen the cooperation between relevant UN bodies and the G-8 and, together with committed partners, we will work to broaden, deepen and make more robust the global multilateral counter-terrorism umbrella.
We recognize the role of the G-8 Roma/Lyon Group (comprised of our counter-terrorism and anti-crime experts) in the global fight against terrorism, as well as the work of the Counter-Terrorism Action Group (CTAG), which seeks to build capacity and political will to assist countries in addressing the terrorist threat. We applaud Canada’s leadership in bringing strategic focus to the groups’ efforts through the preparation of a robust action plan on counter-terrorism and organized crime. We endorse this plan.
We underscore our determination to work cooperatively on key challenges, including transportation security, border security and identity integrity, preventing chemical, biological, nuclear and radiological terrorism, combating terrorism financing, countering violent extremism, radicalization leading to violence, and recruitment. Given the complex nature of the terrorist threat, an integrated and coordinated G-8 response is essential to meeting this challenge.
We acknowledge that terrorist groups and other criminal organizations tend to flourish where governments lack the capacity and resiliency to address security vulnerabilities, in some cases threatening the stability of states. We emphasize the essential role capacity-building can play to support countries in need of assistance to fulfill their international counter-terrorism commitments. Addressing the institutional weaknesses that allow terrorists to operate freely is a critical element of our efforts. Building upon the efforts of the CTAG, we emphasize the need to improve the coordination of the growing bilateral and multilateral counter-terrorism capacity-building initiatives, and to make these efforts more innovative, far-reaching and sustained. We recognize the profound effects of terrorism on these countries and regions, and we are mindful of their needs. We, the G-8 countries, stand together to support them, in particular, Afghanistan, Pakistan, the Sahel, Somalia and Yemen. We will seek to build closer cooperation among relevant G-8 partner programs to make our effort to address terrorism and related security threats more coherent and effective.
Despite our operational successes against al-Qa’ida and other terrorist groups, radicalization leading to violence remains a source of serious concern. Special attention must be paid to curtailing the influence of violent extremists, undermining their false narrative, isolating them from the people they pretend to serve and disrupting their misuse of the internet. Our work will focus on identifying the drivers of violent extremism and then on preventing those most at risk of recruitment and radicalization from becoming terrorists.
By preying on the innocent and vulnerable, terrorists cause unspeakable harm to the very fabric of society. Their actions impact not only the victims, but their families, friends and fellow citizens. Survivors of terrorism and their families have risen against terrorism in the aftermath of horrific attacks. We reiterate our commitment to further develop initiatives that assist them. They are giving a voice to victims while bravely speaking out against violent and extremist ideologies. We stand with them and their families, and we are committed to ensuring that their voices are heard and that the victims are never forgotten.
1. Launched at the 2002 G-8 Summit in Kananaskis, the 10-year, $20 billion G-8 Global Partnership Against the Spread of Weapons and Materials of Mass Destruction continues to make tangible contributions to international security and stability. Building upon the principles and guidelines agreed to at Kananaskis, G-8 Global Partnership partners continue to implement projects in Russia and Ukraine. The Partnership has also evolved to address new challenges and to deal with the spread of weapons and materials of mass destruction worldwide.
2. Since 2002, partners have achieved progress and continue efforts in all areas identified among the Leaders’ priorities at Kananaskis including: “the destruction of chemical weapons”, “the dismantlement of decommissioned nuclear submarines”, “the disposition of fissile materials”, and “the redirection of former weapons scientists”. In accordance with the Kananaskis principles, efforts are also being made in other areas, including the physical protection of nuclear and radiological materials, combating illicit trafficking, improving export controls, and biological security.
3. Despite past progress, work remains in order to complete projects in the Russian priority areas of chemical weapons destruction and nuclear submarine dismantlement prior to the end of the Partnership’s current mandate in 2012. We reaffirm our commitment to complete priority projects in Russia and Ukraine.
4. Building upon the decision taken by G-8 Leaders in 2008 during the Toyako Summit, we continue to recognize the need for Global Partnership programming to address WMD proliferation and terrorism and related challenges worldwide. In particular, several partners in their national programs are already implementing nuclear and radiological security, biological security, and scientist engagement projects in several regions of the world. We commit to continuing the implementation of the Partnership’s geographic expansion, in accordance with the Kananaskis Principles and Guidelines, to address global WMD vulnerabilities. New members accepting Kananaskis documents can be included on a case-by-case basis in the expanded Global Partnership. With respect to nuclear security in particular, we will work to implement commitments as outlined in the Nuclear Security Summit Work Plan. Project Implementation in Russia and Ukraine
Chemical Weapons Destruction
5. Through the Global Partnership, members have funded the construction of chemical weapons destruction facilities in Russia to assist in the elimination of Russian chemical weapons stockpiles, pursuant to Russia’s obligations under the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC). Significant progress has been made since 2002 as a result of funding from Russia and other GP 2 partners. As of December 2009, 45% of Russia’s chemical weapons stockpile (18 000 tonnes) has been destroyed. The destruction process at several facilities, the majority built with the assistance of GP funding, is ongoing.
6. Chemical weapons destruction has been completed both at the Gorny facility built with funding from the European Union, Finland, Germany, and the Netherlands as well as the Kambarka facility built with funding from the European Union, Germany, Finland, the Netherlands, Sweden, and Switzerland. The chemical weapons destruction facility at Shchuch’ye, built with funding from Belgium, Canada, the Czech Republic, the European Union, Finland, France, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Switzerland, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and the United States, began destruction operations in March 2009. This facility remains the best example of the effective cooperation among several countries made possible through the G-8 Global Partnership. Facilities at Maradykovsky and Leonidovka (funded primarily by Russia with assistance from Switzerland) are also operational.
7. The destruction facility at Pochep (with assistance from Germany and Switzerland) is expected to begin operations in 2010 while the Kizner facility (with assistance from Canada) will begin operations by the end of 2010. The contributions of Global Partnership members remain important to helping Russia to complete the destruction of its chemical weapons stockpiles in accordance with Russia’s CWC obligations.
Nuclear Submarine Dismantlement and Related Work
8. Since 2002, substantial progress has been achieved in dismantling decommissioned submarines withdrawn from the Russian Navy at various sites across Northwest Russia and the Russian Far East. Russia has provided significant funding for these projects and has been supported by contributions from Australia, Canada, the European Union, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, New Zealand, Norway, the Republic of Korea, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
9. In regards to the 120 decommissioned nuclear submarines in the Northwest region, 112 have been dismantled, while only eight submarines remain. In the Russian Far East, 69 out of 78 decommissioned submarines have been dismantled with only nine submarines remaining. Through the ongoing contributions of GP partners, it is expected that Russian submarine dismantlement work will be completed by 2012.
10. Partners are also completing essential related activities including radioactive waste (RW) management and spent nuclear fuel (SNF) management, transportation, and the rehabilitation of former on-shore technical bases. A long-term storage facility for submarine reactor compartments and radiation hazardous parts is now operational at Sayda Bay, with German funding; as well, the construction of a regional center for processing and long-term storage of RW is now underway. Progress is also ongoing for design of a solid and liquid RW management facility and a SNF management facility at Andreeva Bay with funding from Italy, Norway, Sweden, and the United Kingdom. The construction of the first units started in 2008 and the completion of the SNF facility is scheduled for 2013 and the RW management facility for 2015. 3
11. Funding from France has supported a site rehabilitation program at the former Gremikha naval base, including work for SNF removal, and improvement of infrastructure of final destination sites, in order to assure safe and secure storage and treatment. France is also supporting upgrades to a nuclear waste incinerator at the Zvezdochka shipyard. Italy is providing funding for the construction of a multi-purpose naval vessel for the transportation of SNF and conditioned waste. Japan has begun the process for providing equipment for a long-term storage facility for reactor compartments, where actual delivery at Razboynik Bay is expected to take place later and Canada and Italy are funding physical protection, as well as environmental and equipment improvements at the Nerpa and Zvezdochka shipyards.
12. The Northern Dimension Environmental Partnership (NDEP) “Nuclear Window”, managed by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), which includes funding from a number of Global Partnership members, is financing a number of multilateral nuclear projects concerning the sites at Andreeva Bay and Gremikha, as well as SNF unloading from the Lepse vessel. A Strategic Master Plan for all nuclear-related activities in the Northwest of Russia has also been prepared under the NDEP “Nuclear Window. In the Archangelsk region, the construction of an emergency response system similar to the one that was installed and put into operation in Murmansk region, is now underway. Disposition of Fissile Materials
13. On April 13, 2010, the United States and Russia signed a Protocol amending the 2000 Plutonium Management and Disposition Agreement in which each country commits to dispose no less than 34 metric tons of surplus weapons-grade plutonium – enough in total for 17,000 nuclear warheads. Nuclear Security and Security of Radioactive Substances
14. A number of projects are being implemented in Russia to upgrade the physical protection and accounting systems of nuclear materials. Funding for this programming is being provided by Canada, the European Union, Germany, Italy, Norway, Sweden, the Republic of Korea, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
15. Projects aimed at strengthening nuclear security are also underway in Ukraine with support from Canada, France, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Sweden. Japan is moving forward with the rehabilitation and provision of equipment for the “Kharkov Institute of Physics and Technology”, while Germany is funding projects for the physical protection of radioactive sources. GP partners also continue to coordinate efforts to assist Ukraine in converting the Chernobyl site into a stable and environmentally-safe condition, including the construction of a shelter for the damaged reactor and storage for spent nuclear fuel. The United Kingdom and the European Union are funding the design and construction of a centralized, long-term storage facility for highly radioactive sources within the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone, and Finland, France, Germany, Sweden, United States are providing assets needed to package and transport these sources to the facility once it is complete. France is involved in recovery of highly radioactive sources on the Ukrainian operator RADON sites for their shipment to the future centralized store.
16. The recovery of several hundred highly radioactive Radioisotopic Thermoelectric Generators (RTGs) from the Northern Sea Route, the Baltic Sea, and the Russian Far East has made significant progress and continues with support from Canada, Finland, France, Norway, and the United States.
17. The United States and Russia are partnering to place equipment for radiation detection at border crossings to detect and prevent the illicit cross-border trafficking of nuclear and radiological materials. GP partners are working with Ukraine, with funding provided by Canada, the European Union, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, Sweden and the United States to help strengthen its capacity to prevent and detect nuclear smuggling.
18. Some partners are already undertaking activities to implement the Work Plan of the Nuclear Security Summit. Redirection of Former Weapons Scientists
19. Building on the Recommendations for a Coordinated Approach in the Field of Global WMD Knowledge Proliferation and Scientist Engagement, as agreed to by the Global Partnership Working Group (GPWG) during Italy’s 2009 G-8 Presidency, GP partners continue to address the human dimension of proliferation by funding projects to engage former WMD scientists or scientists with WMD-related expertise in the development of sustainable civilian research and other activities.
20. The Science and Technology Centers in Moscow and Kiev have played an important role in GP scientist redirection and engagement activities. Through the International Science and Technology Center (ISTC) and Science and Technology Center of Ukraine (STCU), 4000 research projects, as well as capacity building activities, have been funded by GP members. Members of the ISTC and STCU have recognized the success of the Centers in providing economic support for scientists during a transition period.
Geographic Expansion of the Global Partnership
21. The proliferation and terrorist acquisition and use of weapons and materials of mass destruction are global security challenges. In 2008, G-8 Leaders agreed that the Global Partnership must evolve to address these challenges by implementing projects worldwide on the basis of the Kananaskis principles and guidelines.
22. To date, in their national programs, several GP partners including Canada, the European Union, Finland, Italy, Japan, New Zealand, Norway, the Republic of Korea, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and the United States, as confirmed by the projects listed in Annex A to this Report, are pursuing WMD threat reduction projects, related to nuclear and radiological security, biological security and non-proliferation, and scientist engagement in several regions of the world including Central Asia, Southeast Asia, Africa, the Middle East and the Americas. These projects reflect the resolve of partners to address evolving WMD challenges through the Global Partnership while continuing work toward completion of priority projects in Russia and Ukraine.
23. In light of the ongoing global scope of WMD threats, G-8 members continue to implement the Global Partnership’s geographic expansion as a means to address WMD challenges effectively 5 worldwide. While working to complete chemical weapons destruction and nuclear submarine dismantlement projects in Russia, GP partners recognize nuclear security, biological security, and scientist engagement programming as important areas of cooperation to be addressed in other regions of the world. Partners also will continue to provide accurate information regarding the scope of their global activities, included in the attached Annex.
24. In support of the GP’s geographic expansion, Partners welcome ongoing cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons, and the States Parties to the Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention in the exchange of information and expertise. The IAEA Safeguards Agreement and Additional Protocol, UN Security Council Resolution 1540, and the Global Initiative to Combat Nuclear Terrorism are all important mechanisms which will help with concrete programming of Partnership members.
25. An expansion of the membership of the Global Partnership as a means to facilitate global programming remains a priority. Interested G-8 partners have communicated with specific countries, as discussed by the Global Partnership Working Group, to gauge their interests in joining the Global Partnership. The GPWG will also continue to coordinate efforts to engage with additional potential new participants. According to the decision taken in 2008 in Toyako and reaffirmed in 2009 in L’Aquila, new members accepting Kananaskis principles and guidelines can be included on a case-by-case basis in the expanded GP.
Prime Minister Stephen Harper, as Chair of the G-8 Summit, made the following remarks on the opening of the Summit:
“Let me begin by welcoming you to Canada and to beautiful Muskoka, Ontario. I know we have much work to do in the hours ahead, but I do hope you are able to pause for at least a few moments and take in the natural beauty and hospitality for which this region of Canada is so well known.
“I’d like to offer a special welcome to our new attendees here at the G-8 meetings this year, prime ministers Cameron and Kan and also van Rompuy. Also, I would like to extend a special welcome to our African colleagues. I am glad that once again we are able to build on the G-8’s strong tradition of outreach to African partners.
“Later this week, some of us here will join our colleagues in the G-20. In the meantime, however, there is nothing that can substitute for the wide-ranging, frank and intimate discussions that occur between old allies and long-time friends.
“With this in mind, our Muskoka agenda will focus on some urgent issues, including peace and security, development challenges and, our number one priority, maternal and child health.
“We will discuss the Muskoka Initiative — a commitment of new resources to mobilize global action in reducing maternal and infant mortality and improving health of mothers and children in the world’s poorest countries.
“I should mention that I’ve announced Canada’s new contribution today, bringing our total contribution to nearly $3 billion over the next five years.
“Next, we will look at a range of peace and security issues: nuclear non-proliferation, Iran and North Korea, terrorism, organized crime and drug trafficking.
“To enhance the credibility and effectiveness of the G-8, we will be holding a productive debate on strengthening accountability. We must follow through on our initiatives and meet our commitments
“Because if the G-8 fails to address the most difficult problems facing the world, no one else will
“Let me repeat that: accountability is key. We must follow through on our initiatives, and meet our commitments.
“If the countries with the greatest resources will not take action on the most urgent global issues, who will?
“The world wants more than good intentions from us; it expects action.
“Thank you for being here, and I look forward, colleagues, to our discussions on these important matters.
Prime Minister Stephen Harper today met with leaders from Africa and the Americas as part of Canada’s efforts at the G-8 to engage key international partners on development and regional and international security.
His first meeting, with leaders from Algeria, Ethiopia (Chair of the New Partnership for Africa’s Development), Malawi (Chair of the African Union), Nigeria, Senegal and South Africa, built on a strong G-8 tradition of outreach with African partners. The leaders discussed their efforts to promote maternal, newborn and child health as a key part of Africa achieving the Millennium Development Goals.
This group was then joined by leaders from Colombia, Haiti and Jamaica for a more detailed discussion on regional and international security challenges from natural disasters to the threat posed by criminal organizations.
“We discussed shared threats to our security and ways we can work together to address them. The insights of our partners from the Americas and Africa served to ground our discussions in real-world examples,” said Prime Minister Harper.
Many states and regions are struggling to manage the ongoing and pervasive security vulnerabilities they face — including terrorism, organized crime, and trafficking in drugs — and that continue to threaten global stability and prosperity. These undermine sustainable development and democratic governance.
“The linkages between criminal organizations and terrorists are a serious concern to all of our countries,” said the Prime Minister. “To confront them, we must cooperate effectively, while respecting democratic institutions and protecting human rights.” more >>
Prime Minister Stephen Harper today announced that Canada has paid off its share of Haiti’s debt to the Inter-American Development Bank and the International Fund for Agricultural Development. Canada is the first country to make all of the payments required to cancel the debt Haiti owes to all international financial institutions.
“Two weeks after the tragic earthquake in Haiti, Canada called for the full cancellation of the debt owed by Haiti to international organizations like the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund,” said Prime Minister Harper. “With today’s announcement, Canada has fully honoured its international pledge to the people of Haiti, and we urge others to follow this example at the G-20 Leaders’ Summit this weekend.”
While the Government had already cancelled the debt owed by Haiti to Canada under the Canadian Debt Initiative before the earthquake, following the tragedy Canada led a G-20 consensus to forgive debt owed by Haiti to international financial institutions.
Since the earthquake struck Haiti in January 2010, Canada has played a leading role in the global response by providing significant humanitarian and reconstruction assistance. Forgiving debt owed by Haiti has been a critical part of this effort. more >>
Prime Minister Stephen Harper today announced that following the Muskoka Summit, the total Canadian contribution for Maternal, Newborn and Child Health will be $2.85 billion over five years. In addition to $1.1 billion in new money, the Government will also renew existing funding of $1.75 billion over the next five years, for what will be a permanent and long-term commitment.
“I am very pleased to announce Canada’s contribution to this critical initiative. Our contribution will make significant, tangible differences in the lives of the world’s most vulnerable people,” said the Prime Minister. “Canada led the way in mobilizing support among G-8 and non-G-8 leaders, key donors and private foundations for this initiative to reduce the mortality rates of mothers and their children. We have been successful.”
Accountability for results will be an integral part of Canada’s contribution to the Maternal, Newborn and Child Health Initiative. We will design a rigorous accountability framework to measure our progress, track results and ensure that Canadians’ aid dollars are used effectively to contribute to a sustainable reduction in maternal and child mortality. more >>
Prime Minister Stephen Harper today confirmed Canada’s commitment to strengthening relations with China, following bilateral discussions with Hu Jintao, President of China. The two leaders witnessed the signing of new initiatives and reiterated their intent to deepen the linkages between Canada and China. Significantly, China has announced that Canada is now the first Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE)-affected country to regain staged market access for beef to China
“This visit by President Hu confirms that the Canada-China strategic partnership is gaining momentum as we mark 40 years of diplomatic relations and chart a course for the future”, said Prime Minister Harper. “Today’s bilateral signings and the hundreds of thousands of Chinese citizens visiting Canada’s Expo 2010 Pavilion in Shanghai are signs that relations between our countries are flourishing.”
Building on the December 2009 Canada-China Joint Statement, Prime Minister Harper and President Hu witnessed the signing of several Memoranda of Understanding designed to strengthen relations between Canada and China in a broad range of areas. These include:
A Cooperative Arrangement that re-opens the Chinese market for beef and beef products based on a staged approach, beginning with Canadian boneless beef derived from animals under thirty months of age (UTM) and beef tallow for industrial use.
A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to facilitate group travel from China to Canada, which cements Canada's Approved Destination Status.
A Memorandum of Understanding to form an Environmental Protection and Energy Conservation Working Group that will focus on commercial cooperation in the environment and clean energy sector.
A Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation on Combating Crime.
In the area of commerce, the leaders instructed officials to explore means of deepening the Canada-China economic partnership by establishing a working group under the Joint Economic and Trade Committee.
In the area of culture, Prime Minister Harper expressed Canada’s pleasure that negotiations will soon begin to secure a long-term loan of a pair of giant pandas to Canada and that the world-famous Terracotta Warriors will be on exhibit at the Royal Ontario Museum beginning June 26.
Prime Minister Stephen Harper issued the following on the 25th anniversary of the Air India Flight 182 atrocity:
“I stand before you to offer on behalf of the Government of Canada, and all Canadians, an apology for the institutional failings of 25 years ago and the treatment of the victims` families thereafter.
“The protection of its citizens is the first obligation of government.
“The mere fact of the destruction of Air India Flight 182 is the primary evidence that something went very, very wrong. For that, we are sorry. For that, and also for the years during which your legitimate need for answers and indeed, for empathy, were treated with administrative disdain.
“Ladies and gentlemen, Commissioner Major has made many important recommendations. We are in the course of reviewing them and have already begun the vital work of improving safety and security at our airports. It is a matter of the utmost importance to our government that such a thing never happens again.
“Sadly, we have no way of knowing when, if, or how we may once more be attacked, or by whom. We know only that terrorism is an enemy with a thousand faces, and a hatred that festers in the darkest spots of the human mind.” more >>
Prime Minister Stephen Harper issued the following statement to mark the sixth annual National Day of Remembrance for Victims of Terrorism:
“On this day of remembrance — which comes on the 25th anniversary of the day that the 329 men, women and children onboard Air India Flight 182 perished in the worst act of terrorism in Canadian history — our thoughts and prayers go out to all those who have lost loved ones to acts of terrorism both in Canada and around the world.
“We have been deeply moved by this atrocity. The Air India Flight 182 bombing and other incidents around the globe since remind us that terrorism is still alive and well in the world and is an enemy with a thousand faces.
“The best tribute we can make to the victims of terrorism is to ensure that atrocities like the bombing of Air India Flight 182 never happen again. To that end, our Government has introduced new measures to thwart terrorists and will continue to put the safety of all Canadians first.
“On this day, let us keep all the victims of terrorism, and their families and loved ones, in our thoughts.”
Prime Minister Stephen Harper issued the following statement on the occasion of Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day:
“Each year, June 24 is a time of celebration for all French-speaking Canadians and Québécois. It is an occasion for Québécois, Francophones and francophiles to get together with family and friends to celebrate their history and the language that binds them together in heart and spirit.
“Our government knows that all citizens of this vast and wonderful land are closely connected by common values and our country’s history. Together we have made Canada a country in which we are proud to live. A nation that is known today for its openness, innovative nature and principles of fairness. A country in which having two official languages is recognized as a real advantage.
“On behalf of the Government of Canada and my family, I wish all Canadians who cherish the French language a happy Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day. I encourage citizens to participate in the many festivities celebrating our country’s proud French heritage.I wish each and every one of you a happy Fête nationale!” more >>
Prime Minister Stephen Harper issued the following statement today announcing that Canada is now fully implementing its obligations under United Nations Security Council (UNSC) Resolution 1929, which imposes further sanctions against the Islamic Republic of Iran:
“The Iranian regime continues to violate its international obligations by ignoring successive UNSC resolutions to suspend its enrichment-related activities and refusing to cooperate fully with the International Atomic Energy Agency.
“Our Government therefore welcomed UNSC Resolution 1929 on June 9, 2010. Today, we have fulfilled our obligations by establishing the necessary regulations to implement the decisions in UNSC Resolution 1929, and have amended our existing regulations to include these latest sanctions. These include measures that further limit Iran’s access to uranium, nuclear materials and technology both directly and through third parties, such as key members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.
“These sanctions are designed to restrict Iran’s nuclear program and are in no way intended to punish the Iranian people.
“Instead, these targeted measures are meant to send a strong signal to Iran that the international community expects Iran to meet its international nuclear obligations. They send a message to all states — particularly those with nuclear aspirations — that international standards cannot be flouted without consequences.
“Canada strongly urges Iran to agree to a constructive dialogue with China, France, Germany, Russia, the United Kingdom and the United States in order to reach a diplomatic solution as soon as possible.
“Canada will continue to use its G-8 Presidency to maintain international focus on Iran’s nuclear program, and we stand ready to implement additional sanctions, as necessary, to promote regional and international peace and security.”
Prime Minister Stephen Harper today issued the following statement on National Aboriginal Day: “As we celebrate National Aboriginal Day, I encourage all Canadians to take the opportunity to celebrate Canada’s rich Aboriginal traditions and the contributions of Aboriginal peoples.
“Evidence of the wealth of aboriginal cultures in our country is all around us, from place names, to languages spoken, to art, both modern and historical, found in nature, homes and museums across the nation. Nowhere was this evidence stronger than at the 2010 Winter Olympic Games, where Aboriginal symbols, participation and cultures were an integral part of the Games’ success.
“But National Aboriginal Day is about more than history and traditions. It is also about recognizing the immense contributions Aboriginal peoples continue to make in this country on a daily basis in all areas.— contributions that ensure the growth and success of Canada.
“Our Government is committed to deepening our relationship with Aboriginal people, and we are taking action to help Aboriginal peoples and communities reach their full potential. Under Canada’s Economic Action Plan, we are investing in Aboriginal-specific programming in areas such as skills and training, health, educational facilities, housing and infrastructure. Additionally, Budget 2010: Leading the Way on Jobs and Growth is providing support for Aboriginal peoples and the North, including improvements to Aboriginal health and access to safe drinking water on reserves
“I encourage everyone to take part in the exciting festivities planned for National Aboriginal Day across Canada. Please join me in celebrating the outstanding contributions that the First Nations, Métis, and Inuit make to Canada.”
Prime Minister Stephen Harper issued the following statement on China’s decision to enhance the flexibility of its exchange rate:
“We welcome China’s decision to enhance the flexibility of its exchange rate. This is an important step forward and its full implementation will contribute to strong, sustainable and balanced global growth. We look forward to additional steps by G-20 countries at the Toronto summit to improve the economic prospects of all of our citizens.”
Prime Minister Stephen Harper today issued the following statement upon receiving the G-8 Muskoka Accountability Report:
“Last year, at the G-8 Summit in L’Aquila, Italy, leaders requested a report assessing progress by the G-8 in implementing our commitments. Today, I received the G-8 Muskoka Accountability Report from my Personal Representative for the G-8.
“I am proud of the progress that Canada has made in meeting its G-8 commitments. We have doubled our aid to Africa and are on track to doubling our total international assistance as promised. We are also meeting our G-8 pledges to provide debt relief, fight infectious diseases, improve health systems, invest in food security and build peacekeeping capacity. Canada’s contribution is an essential part of the G-8 Muskoka Accountability Report.
“Accountability is a priority for Canada and I am pleased that this important work was completed under Canada’s leadership. Canadians can be proud that despite a tough global economy, Canada can still work with its partners to help the world’s less fortunate and meet its development goals.
“This report will be an important topic of discussion among G-8 leaders in Muskoka, and I look forward to productive talks on strengthening accountability for G-8 initiatives. If the G-8 is to remain credible, accountability is absolutely necessary.”
Prime Minister Stephen Harper today made the following remarks when meeting with members of the Air India Victims Families Association:
"I have here with me today representatives of the families of the victims of Flight 182, which we now know was the worst act of terrorism in Canada’s history, in which over 300 of our citizens lost their lives. This report has been a long time coming. It's now been almost 25 years since that tragedy, and I hope that we now finally have an analysis of those events and recommendations for a way to prevent such acts in the future. But first of all, our objective today is that today is a day of remembrance, remembering the losses, remembering the deaths of our loved ones who lost their lives, and thinking about and expressing our condolences to the families who have lived with this tragedy to this day.
“So just once again, we have Justice Major’s report. I’m sure it’s a bittersweet day for all of the family members who are with me today and the wider community that they represent.
“This worst act of Canadian terrorism in our history occurred almost 25 years ago. 300 of our citizens lost their lives. Their families have been living with that ever since and living without answers. Due to the work of Justice Major – I think it’s as thorough and complete a work as could have been done – we do now have an analysis of that, and we also have important recommendations about the way forward to avoid this sort of thing ever happening again. I’m not going to get into today addressing all of the recommendations. Obviously some of them are very sweeping and will require some analysis.
“Today is first and foremost a day of remembrance, to remember the victims who lost their lives and to express our condolences to the families who have lived with this ever since.
“I do want to say this, though, in terms of the recommendations. We take Justice Major’s report very seriously. It is a damning indictment of many things that occurred before and after the tragedy, that, as I say, we’re determined to avoid in the future. Issues are raised about apology, official apology and compensation to victims. Let me be clear unequivocally that the government will respond positively to those recommendations. Obviously other recommendations will require additional study, but the government is determined to act in a way that we avoid this kind of event ever occurring again on Canadian soil and never being perpetrated against Canadian citizens.
“I just want to end by expressing my condolences to all of you for your losses, but also to the wider community you represent for being so forceful over the years in insisting that we get to the bottom of this, insisting that this work be undertaken, and I think you’ve taken that tragedy and done a real public service. “I know we’re all very appreciative of Justice Major for his work, and are all determined to follow up on it. So thank you for being here and thank you for what you’ve done for your country in insisting that we get to the bottom of this.” more >>
Prime Minister Stephen Harper today issued the following statement on the passing of celebrated Canadian opera star Maureen Forrester:
“On behalf of all Canadians, Laureen and I would like to offer our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Maureen Forrester.
“A world famous contralto who graced the world’s best stages, Ms Forrester’s voice and performances earned rave reviews from critics and an international fan base.
“Ms Forrester was also a tireless champion of Canadian composers, regularly promoting their work at home and abroad. She served as Chair of the Canada Council for the Arts from 1983 to 1988.”
“Ms Forrester’s remarkable talents and contributions were recognized with numerous honours and awards. Among others, she was named a Companion of the Order of Canada in 1967, received the Governor General's Performing Arts Award in 1995 and earned a star on Canada’s Walk of Fame in 2000. She is also a member of the Juno Hall of Fame.
“Ms Forrester’s vast repertoire of music, which spans opera to burlesque to pop, will live on in the hearts and minds of music fans in Canada and around the world.” more >>
The Government of Canada today tabled the Air India Flight 182: A Canadian Tragedy, the final report of the Commission of Inquiry into the Investigation of the Bombing of Air India Flight 182.
“The destruction of Air India Flight 182 remains the worst terrorist attack in Canadian history. It was a cowardly, despicable and senseless act,” said Prime Minister Stephen Harper. “Our Government launched this inquiry to bring closure to those who still grieve and to ensure that measures are taken to prevent such a tragedy in the future.”
In September 2006, the Government of Canada kept its promise to launch an inquiry and commissioned retired Justice Major to scrutinize the Investigation of the Bombing of Air India Flight 182. In December 2007, the Government released its first report “The Families Remember,” which gave voice to the loved ones of the victims of Flight 182, those who assisted them and others directly affected.
“We thank Commissioner Major for his work and once again extend our deepest sympathies to the families and friends for the loved ones they lost,” said the Prime Minister. “Our thoughts are with them on this day.”
The final report being released today is an examination of Canadian national security systems, policies and actions related to the tragedy. It contains both findings and recommendations for the Government of Canada. more >>
Prime Minister Stephen Harper announced today that the Government of Canada has extended invitations to Algeria, Egypt, Ethiopia, Malawi, Nigeria, Senegal, South Africa, as well as to Colombia, Jamaica and Haiti, to attend a special session at the G-8 Summit in Huntsville, Ontario, from June 25-26.
"The G-8 has a long tradition of developing credible solutions to global challenges in partnership with Africa and others in the international community,” said the Prime Minister. “At this year’s Summit, we will be engaging African leaders as well as key hemispheric partners in order to broaden representation and maximize results on international development and peace and security issues."
To ensure an informed global perspective, Canada has also engaged in extensive consultations and outreach efforts in the lead up to the G-8 and G-20 summits.
The G-8 is a forum for leaders of the world’s most industrialized nations. It is made up of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Russia, the United Kingdom and the United States. The European Union also participates in the G-8 summits.
Prime Minister Stephen Harper today issued the following statement marking the anniversary of Iran’s 2009 presidential election, which precipitated a serious deterioration in the country’s human rights situation:
“One year ago, in the wake of Iran’s presidential elections, the world bore witness to the Iranian regime’s violent repression of its citizens, who were exercising their right to freedom of expression and assembly in protest against the conduct of those elections.
“Iran has made absolutely no progress in the last year toward addressing the legitimate aspirations of its people. In fact, its regime has been even more repressive. Iran’s continued, blatant disregard for the rights of its citizens must end.
“Canada calls on the Iranian regime to uphold its human rights commitments by allowing freedom of expression, freedom of the press and freedom of assembly; protecting religious minorities; respecting the human rights of prisoners and detainees; and ensuring equal treatment of women and girls.
“Canada also calls on the Iranian regime to conduct an independent investigation into the killings, violence, arrests and detentions that occurred in the wake of these demonstrations.
"Canada strongly urges the Iranian regime to respect diverse social and political groups and their freedom of expression, and to engage these groups in a constructive dialogue that will serve to strengthen the rich fabric of the Iranian nation.
“Canada further urges the Iranian regime to respect the rights of the country’s Baha’i community and cease persecuting it, discriminating against it and detaining its members. We note the trial of the seven leaders of the Baha’i community was to take place today, and we call on the Iranian regime to ensure that due process is respected.” more >>
Today Liberals and the NDP are denying media reports that secret merger negotiations are under way.
Of course the Liberals and NDP deny they are in Coalition negotiations. Michael Ignatieff laid out the strategy last weekend when he told the Canadian Press that he was open to forming a coalition with the NDP but that he would not talk about it until after an election. (Canadian Press, June 6, 2010)
And the NDP is no stranger to secret deals. Jack Layton admitted in December 2008 that he had been secretly talking to the Bloc Quebecois about forming a coalition government to seize power for some time. ( Ottawa Sun, December 1, 2008)
It is becoming clear that Canadians cannot trust the Liberals and the NDP. In the last election, then Liberal leader Stéphane Dion promised he would never form a coalition, and then promptly tried to do so after leading his party to defeat.
Michael Ignatieff said previously that he would support a coalition but now has changed his tune and refuses to tell Canadians exactly what he has in mind.
In this time of great global uncertainty Canada a government that will provide stability and keep the economy on track. A coalition government with the NDP influencing economic policy and the Bloc Quebecois having a policy veto cannot provide that stability.
These latest rumours prove that once again Michael Ignatieff and the Liberals aren't in it for Canadians. They're just in it for themselves.
Prime Minister Stephen Harper issued the following statement on the occasion of the ninth annual Canadian Forces Day:
“Today, I join with Canadians to pay tribute to the men and women of the Canadian Forces and the outstanding work they do in Canada and around the world in difficult and dangerous circumstances.
“Every day, in Canada and around the world, the brave men and women of the Canadian Forces work in the most challenging of circumstances to defend Canadian security at home and promote peace, democracy and the rule of law abroad. Whether fighting the Taliban in Afghanistan, protecting ships from pirates off the coast of Somalia, patrolling Canada’s North to protect our sovereignty, or helping reconstruction efforts in earthquake-ravaged Haiti, Canadian Forces members are a credit to our great nation.
“Just as we must thank our brave men and women in uniform who serve Canada with bravery and dedication, we cannot forget the contribution of those military families who, through their personal sacrifice and support for our troops, make their own invaluable contribution to a stronger, safer Canada.
“Our Government is committed to ensuring the Canadian Forces have the tools they need to do the difficult work we ask of them. Our long-term investments in new technology and equipment will ensure they can continue to get the job done.
“Today, I express the nation's gratitude for all the hard work of the Canadian Forces and our confidence and pride in all that they do.”
Prime Minister Stephen Harper issued the following statement today on the anniversary of D-Day:
“Sixty-six years ago, Canadian and Allied forces stormed the beaches of Normandy in the cause of freedom and democracy. The Canadian Forces earned their place in the history books that day when they forged ahead by land, air and sea farther than any other Allied troops.
“Canadians from coast-to-coast-to-coast and people around the world honour the bravery and sacrifice of those who fought on D-Day. And we remember their proud legacy on the anniversary of one of Canada’s defining military endeavours. We also reflect on the ultimate sacrifice that 5,000 Canadians made during the Battle of Normandy to combat tyranny and secure our freedom, a sacrifice we must all remember.
“Just as we remember the bravery and sacrifice of the Canadian Forces in the past, it is also important to honour those Canadians who are currently deployed around the world fighting for freedom and justice in Afghanistan, or peacekeeping in places such as Sudan, Haiti and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
“Our Government has committed to paying tribute to all of our Veterans and preserving our history for future generations by supporting community war memorials. These memorials will provide places for Canadians to reflect on the sacrifices of brave men and women throughout our history.
“Today, I join all Canadians in expressing our sincere thanks to our Veterans. Their contribution and service to Canada has made our country what it is today. Neither time nor distance will lessen our remembrance. Lest we forget.” more >>
Prime Minister Stephen Harper issued the following statement today on the death of a Canadian soldier in Afghanistan:
“On behalf of all Canadians, I would like to offer my deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Sergeant Martin Goudreault, who died yesterday in Afghanistan. This brave soldier was killed when an improvised devise exploded while he was investigating a suspected weapons cache.
“The Canadian mission in Afghanistan has many challenges, but the Canadian Forces are dedicated to making a difference in support of this United Nations-mandated, NATO-led mission.
“The lives of the Afghan people are better due to the efforts of Canadians like Sergeant Goudreault who provide security and stability. These are the cornerstones that will allow the country to rebuild and grow into the future.
“The Government of Canada and all Canadians are proud of our men and women of the Canadian Forces. Sergeant Goudreault’s sacrifice will not be forgotten.” more >>
Prime Minister Stephen Harper made the following remarks at the conclusion of his meeting with David Cameron, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland:
“David, it is a delight to be here. I do want to take the opportunity to congratulate you in person on your victory and historic government you formed here in Britain. We have, as you said, met many times over the years. I have watched your progress with great interest, and I certainly look forward to working together.
“We share much in common. As you know, our parties of course have deep historic linkages as well, so it is going to be a real pleasure to work with you going forward, and I should just also say I am delighted to be one of the first foreign leaders to come here, because, as you know, our relationship with Britain is one of our oldest and dearest in the entire world, and I think it’s all very fitting that we are able to do this. And I certainly look forward to seeing you in a few weeks in Canada as we will follow up on our discussions. I also just want to, David, as well, through you really express our condolences to the people of Cumbria, to all the victims and their families, all of the people who have been affected by this terrible tragedy in that part of your country, and of course our condolences to the British people as a whole. I know this will be a day of some reflection.
“Once again, we had a good discussion. I would like to thank Prime Minister Cameron for the invitation today. We are obviously very pleased to congratulate him in person on his assumption of office and I look forward to welcoming him to Muskoka and Toronto.
“The G-20, which was the main subject of our conversation today, will focus on the global economy and on laying the foundations for sustainable and balanced growth. There are positive signs, but we are by no means out of the woods. The European financial situation is of concern, but at the same time we do welcome the steps that have been taken to address this situation.
“We need to follow through on our G-20 commitments, including stimulus, to avoid backsliding, but obviously once stimulus expires, restoring public finances must be a priority. We've talked about the necessity of fiscal consolidation across the world and the necessity of implementing clear and realistic plans to reduce deficits and bring our budgets back into balance.
“We discussed other G-20 areas of concentration, developing global goal strategies, the need for financial sector reform and, of course, resisting protectionism. And we are both working very hard to push forward the Canada-European Union trade discussions.
“On the G-8, we discussed our child and maternal health initiative. As David mentioned, the United Kingdom has been a historic leader on these issues. We also discussed the leading role the G-8 will continue to play in areas of peace and security, non-proliferation, terrorism and organized crime. The G-8 also has an important agenda in terms of accountability and ensuring that we live up to the commitments we have made over the years.
“I look forward to working closely with the United Kingdom and our other G-8 and G-20 partners in the lead-up to the summits and of course I look forward, David, to hosting you in Canada in a very short time, a very few weeks.
Prime Minister Stephen Harper today made the following remarks at the conclusion of his meetings with François Fillon, Prime Minister of the French Republic, and Nicolas Sarkozy, President of the French Republic.
“Thank you François. Thank you ladies and gentleman. It is always a pleasure to be here in France, one of our closest friends in the world. We had good discussions today with Prime Minister Fillon and President Sarkozy. I look forward to welcoming President Sarkozy to Muskoka and Toronto.
“On the G-20, we discussed the importance of restoring the health of the global economy by entrenching our recovery and laying the foundations for sustainable and balanced growth according to the framework that we agreed to in Pittsburgh. Positive signs of recovery are out there, but we are not out of the woods. As I mentioned before, European financial developments are a concern, but we do welcome the measures that have been taken to address the situation.
“We need to follow through on the existing G-20 commitments we have made at three successive summits now, Washington, London and Pittsburgh, including our commitment to stimulus. These measures have to be undertaken to avoid backsliding into recession, but as stimulus expires, the next challenge will be the restoration of public finances, including the implementation of clear and realistic plans for reducing deficits, and returning to balanced budgets, and this will be an additional focus in Toronto. We also discussed other areas, developing global growth strategies, the need for financial sector reform and of course the importance of continuing to resist protectionism.
“On the G-8, we discussed the maternal and child health initiative. France is a strong supporter of these ideas. We agreed on the importance for the G-8 to work with the United Nations and to support UN-led processes focussing on maternal, newborn and child health. We also discussed the G-8’s leading role on issues like peace and security, for example in Afghanistan, terrorism, organized crime and other such issues. A major theme of our G-8 will be accountability, ensuring that the G-8 lives up to its past commitments. We are working closely with France and our other G-8 and G-20 partners in the lead-up to these summits.
“We are of course also working with France on the historic negotiations of free trade that are taking place these days between Canada and the European Union, and I look very much forward to hosting President Sarkozy. France is, as I have said before, always one of the most important voices at the tables of these international summits. I look forward to seeing President Sarkozy again, and, also, I am very aware of the fact that at the end of 2010, both the G-8 presidency and the G-20 presidency will be passed to France for 2011.” more >>
In November 2009, 12 NDP MPs (one-third of the NDP caucus) listened to their constituents and voted to scrap the wasteful and ineffective long-gun registry.
Late yesterday, the actions of one NDP MP, Joe Comartin (and approved by party boss Jack Layton) told the constituents of those 12 NDP MPs that their voices and their votes don't count.
The NDP, alongside the Liberals and Bloc Quebecois, ganged up and passed a motion to try and derail Bill C-391 and keep the long-gun registry "as is".
This vote by the Opposition parties proves that they are more prepared to play political games with the long-gun registry than to do the right thing, speak for their constituents and stand up to their political bosses in Ottawa.
Those 12 NDP and 8 Liberal MPs, who did the right thing at second reading and voted to scrap the long-gun registry, will have to explain to their constituents why their party bosses effectively silenced their voices.
In the last week, senior Ignatieff Liberal MPs David McGuinty, Bob Rae, Marlene Jennings have called for a Liberal-Bloc Quebecois-NDP coalition, and now they've been joined by the President of the Young Liberals.
“I support some kind of collaboration," said Young Liberal President Samuel Lavoie. His excuse is that it shouldn't include the Bloc Quebecois, but as we all know, the Liberals and NDP couldn't currently form a coalition WITHOUT the support of the Bloc Quebecois.
If all these Liberals got their wish, such a coalition would include:
Michael Ignatieff, who was professing his love for America and calling the United States his “country” just months before coming back to Canada after being away for 34 years;
Canada’s economic recovery would be in the hands of Bob Rae, a failed former NDP Premier and Jack Layton, an untested tax and spend NDP leader; and
Canada’s government would have a Bloc Quebecois policy veto dangling over its head on a daily basis.
Canada can’t afford a Prime Minister who is just visiting. We can’t afford NDP co-management of the economy. And we most certainly cannot afford a policy veto for the Bloc Quebecois – the glue that made the last Coalition attempt possible.
These latest coalition musings prove once again that the Liberals aren't in it for Canadians. They're just in it for themselves.
Prime Minister Stephen Harper today announced that he will travelling to the United Kingdom and France from June 2 to 4. He will meet with David Cameron, newly-elected Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, in London and with Nicolas Sarkozy, President of France, and François Fillon, Prime Minister of France, in Paris to discuss the upcoming G-8 and G-20 Summits. The meetings also will provide an opportunity to coordinate approaches to the international financial crisis and other key global issues
“The UK and France are close friends and allies who will be critical players in the upcoming G-8 and G-20 meetings being hosted by Canada next month,” said Prime Minister Harper. “I look forward to their insights on the global economy and international security and development which will help maximize results at the Leaders’ Meetings.”
Lawrence Cannon, Minister of Foreign Affairs, will accompany Prime Minister Harper to the United Kingdom and France.
This will be Prime Minister Harper’s first meeting with David Cameron since Mr. Cameron was elected Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. The two countries share the oldest continuous traditions of parliamentary democracy. Canada-United Kingdom relations benefit through close partnership and co-operation in various international organizations, including the Commonwealth, United Nations, G-8, G-20, Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe, NATO and World Trade Organization. The United Kingdom is an important trading partner and a strong ally in Afghanistan.
France is a key international ally for Canada and a permanent member of the UN Security Council, NATO, G-8, G-20, a founding nation of the European Union, and Canada’s lead partner in La Francophonie. France and Canada share a commitment to multilateralism, the promotion of democracy, human rights, good governance and development. The two countries are strong commercial partners and work closely together in the area of peacekeeping operations in Afghanistan, Haiti and Africa. France will assume presidency of the G-8 and G-20 in 2011. more >>
Prime Minister Stephen Harper today met with His Highness the Aga Khan in Toronto to take part in the Foundation Ceremony of the Ismaili Centre, the Aga Khan Museum and Park. The Imam is on an official visit to Canada from May 26-28.
“Canada is honoured to have been chosen as the site for these important institutions,” said the Prime Minister. They will serve to promote pluralism, peace and tolerance through greater understanding of Islam.”
The Museum, which is an education project of the Aga Khan Development Network, will be dedicated to the acquisition, preservation and display of artefacts relating to the intellectual, cultural, artistic and religious heritage of Muslim civilizations. It is scheduled to open in Toronto in 2013.
During the visit, Canada will formally grant honourary citizenship to His Highness the Aga Khan, an initiative that was passed unanimously in the House of Commons on June 19, 2009.
“Conferring honourary citizenship upon His Highness the Aga Khan is a recognition of His Highness’s leadership as a champion of international development, pluralism and tolerance around the world and of his remarkable leadership as Imam of the worldwide Ismaili community,” said the Prime Minister.
The Aga Khan is the Imam of the world's 15 million Shia Ismaili Muslims. The Government of Canada has a strong, long-standing relationship with the Aga Khan Foundation Canada (AKFC) that spans more than 25 years. AKFC is a trusted partner of Canada on a wide range of international development projects, including in Afghanistan, in the areas of health, education, rural and economic development, and the creation of new opportunities for women. more >>
Prime Minister Stephen Harper today visited Dryden, Ontario, to mark the Centennial of the founding of the city. He was joined by Greg Rickford, Member of Parliament for Kenora, and Anne Krassilowsky, Mayor of Dryden.
“Dryden was settled by tough pioneers who saw the region’s great potential in forestry, farming and mining,” said Prime Minister Harper. “Dryden has achieved much in its first century and is poised to achieve even more in the future. Our Government is contributing to the city’s future by supporting both a major new upgrade at the Domtar Pulp Mill and a new state-of-the-art water treatment plant.”
The Government of Canada is also supporting the 2010 centennial anniversary celebrations which feature several commemorative activities that highlight the work of local artists, including musical performances and an arts festival. A centennial air show featuring the Canadian Snowbirds is also one of the main attractions.
“The values and virtues of the pioneers who built this city and our country are still driving Canada forward today,” said the Prime Minister. “In that spirit, Canada is coming out of this recession faster, stronger and in a better position than any country on earth.”
Dryden was founded as an agricultural community in 1895 by John Dryden, who was Ontario’s Minister of Agriculture at the time. It became a town in 1910. more >>
Prime Minister Stephen Harper today acted to fill a vacancy in the Senate, announcing the appointment of David Braley.
“I welcome the addition of David Braley to the Senate,” said the Prime Minister. “Through his involvement in sport and philanthropy he has shown a commitment to both his community and his country.”
Mr. Braley, a Hamilton-area businessman, fills a single vacancy in Ontario. He has pledged to support the Government in its efforts to make the Senate more democratic and accountable, including legislation to limit Senate tenure and to allow provinces to elect their Senators.
“I look forward to working with Mr. Braley and all of our Senators as our government works towards a more democratic, accountable and effective Senate,” said Prime Minister Harper.
On Tuesday, five senior ministers of our Conservative Government spoke out in cities around the world to express Canada’s opposition to the proposed job-killing global bank tax. In Ottawa, Mumbai, Shanghai and Washington D.C., Canada’s ministers are speaking with one voice.
Our Government is firmly opposed to a new job-killing global bank tax that would reach into Canadians’ pockets and we are taking action to make certain that Canada’s voice is heard.
Canadian banks have been recognized as the most sound in the world. Our banks have acted responsible to avoid toxic assets and it makes no sense to impose a punitive tax on them now: “A tax would reach into consumers’ pockets and punish our financial institutions, which have taken precautions to avoid the very turmoil that is afflicting other parts of the globe,” said Tony Clement, Canada’s Industry Minister.
While we support efforts to establish a strong regulatory framework for the global financial sector, our Government will stand up for Canadians and oppose efforts to impose a tax that would place Canada’s banks at a disadvantage, and would pay for the mistakes of others countries’ banks.
A job-killing global bank tax is not the answer. G-20 countries must complete promised regulatory reforms on time, proceed with credible fiscal consolidation plans and fix the financial system. Our Conservative Government will continue to demonstrate leadership on the world stage on this and other issues at the G8 and G20 meetings we are hosting this year.
Prime Minister Stephen Harper issued the following statement today on the death of a Canadian soldier:
“We are all deeply saddened to hear of the death of Colonel Geoff Parker, a professional, dedicated Canadian soldier, who made the ultimate sacrifice in Afghanistan. Colonel Parker was killed today when a suicide car bomb detonated near an International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) convoy in Kabul.
“My sincere condolences go out to Colonel Parker’s family and friends, who should be extremely proud of his honourable service to his country. On behalf of Canada, I also extend my sympathies to the families and friends of the five American service members and numerous Afghans who perished in the same attack.
“Canada is in Afghanistan at the request of the democratically-elected Afghan government, as part of a UN-mandated, NATO-led mission to help Afghans rebuild their country as a stable, democratic and self-sufficient society.
“The Taliban have consistently demonstrated their utter brutality through their complete disregard for the lives of innocent Afghans. This attack will not deter Canada from its mission to help the people of Afghanistan stand on their own in repelling the forces of extremism and international terrorism.
“Colonel Parker was a great Canadian who will be greatly missed by the Canadian Forces family and his community. Canadians are proud of and grateful for his service and for the contributions of all our men and women in uniform.”
Prime Minister Stephen Harper today witnessed the signing of the Canada-Panama Free Trade Agreement by the Honourable Peter Van Loan, Minister of International Trade, and Roberto Henríquez, Panama’s Minister of Commerce and Industry. Both Ministers also signed parallel agreements on Labour Cooperation and on the Environment.
“During my visit to Panama in August of last year, I had the pleasure of marking the conclusion of negotiations on this historic free trade deal with Panama’s President Ricardo Martinelli,” said Prime Minister Harper. “This agreement is another step towards building stronger ties with our partners in the Americas as we work together to generate more jobs and greater prosperity in Canada and in the hemisphere.”
Once implemented, the Canada-Panama Free Trade Agreement will provide opportunities for Canadian business by lowering tariffs on goods and removing other trade barriers. There will be benefits across a broad range of sectors, including for the Canadian construction, manufacturing and agriculture industries.
The Labour Cooperation Agreement commits Canada and Panama to respect the core labour standards set out by the International Labour Organization.
The Agreement on the Environment requires both parties to ensure high levels of environmental protection and the effective enforcement of domestic environmental laws while encouraging trade and investment.
Now that the agreements have been signed, both parties will seek legislative approval of the treaties, which will enter into force once each country’s domestic approval processes are completed.
Canadian merchandise exports to Panama totalled $91.4 million for 2009, a 52 per cent increase since 2005. more >>
Prime Minister Stephen Harper issued the following statement today on the death of a Canadian soldier:
“It is with deep sorrow that I extend my condolences, and those of all Canadians, to the family and friends of Private Kevin Thomas McKay, who died yesterday in Afghanistan as a result of wounds sustained from an improvised explosive device. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you at this time of loss.
"Private Kevin Thomas McKay was part of an international coalition working to bring peace and security to this troubled country. Canadians are forever proud and grateful for his service and for the contributions of all our men and women in uniform to this UN-mandated, NATO-led mission.
"There are risks to our mission, but the brave men and women of the Canadian Forces are showing leadership, alongside our international partners, in standing up for something that is just: helping the Afghan people achieve peace and stability and rebuild their country and its institutions.
"I join with Canadians who stand proudly with the men and women of the Canadian Forces as they courageously risk their lives every day to bring peace and security to the people of Afghanistan. Private Kevin Thomas McKay served Canada valiantly, and deserves the gratitude and respect of his nation.”
Prime Minister Stephen Harper today issued the following statement congratulating the United Kingdom’s Conservative Party Leader, David Cameron, on his victory in the general election and appointment as prime minister by Her Majesty the Queen:
“On behalf of the Government of Canada, I am pleased to offer my sincere and heartfelt congratulations to David Cameron on his general election victory in the United Kingdom and his appointment as prime minister by Her Majesty the Queen.
“Our two countries share a deep and enduring relationship, forged in good times and bad by hundreds of years of shared history, values and tradition. We are united by the cause of freedom, democracy, human rights and the rule of law in both our respective countries and throughout the world. I am certain that the bonds between our two countries will deepen over the coming years.
“I would also like to congratulate all incoming Members of Parliament on their election victories. I look forward to strengthening the historic and unbreakable ties between our two countries.”
Prime Minister Stephen Harper announced that the Leader of the Official Opposition was sworn in today as a Privy Councillor by the Governor General of Canada. “In my former role as Leader of Her Majesty’s Loyal Opposition, I was granted membership to the Queen’s Privy Council,” said Prime Minister Harper. “I was pleased to offer the same courtesy to Mr. Ignatieff in December of 2009.”
Privy councillors are members of The Queen's Privy Council for Canada, established under the Constitution Act, 1867 to advise the Crown. The Privy Council includes all past and present Cabinet ministers, as well as a number of select persons. Members are appointed by the Governor General, on the recommendation of the Prime Minister.
“We owe our parliamentary heritage to the grand traditions of Westminster,” noted the Prime Minister. “Being granted access to the Queen’s Privy Council is both an honour and a privilege.”
During the swearing in ceremony, privy councillors swear an oath of allegiance and the Privy Councillor's Oath which includes maintaining the secrecy of Confidences of the Queen's Privy Council for Canada. Privy councillors are subject to the Security of Information Act. more >>
Prime Minister Stephen Harper announced today that the Government of Canada is designating May 4th, 2010, as Canadian Navy Centennial Day to mark the Royal Canadian Navy's 100th anniversary of service. The announcement was made during a ceremony in the Senate Chamber on Parliament Hill during which a ship’s bell was presented to the people of Canada by the Navy to show their continued commitment to serve.
"The founding of Canada's navy represents a proud milestone in our history,” said Prime Minister Harper. “In the past 100 years our sailors have developed a reputation for bravery, skill and professionalism from combat in both world wars and Korea to current actions such as delivering aid to Haiti and combating piracy and terrorism in the Arabian Sea. Our Government will continue with its efforts to re-equip Canada’s navy, providing them with the new ships and upgrades needed to get the job done.
“This is a momentous occasion. The navy is honoured by today’s proclamation, and we hope that Canadians will join us in recognizing this milestone in Canadian history," said Vice-Admiral Dean McFadden, Chief of the Maritime Staff.
“The Centennial Bell rededicates the Navy’s commitment to the people of Canada for the next 100 years of service. It stands as a symbol that honours the past, celebrates the Royal Canadian Navy’s achievements and recognizes the navy’s safeguarding of Canadian values of freedom, democracy, respect for human rights and the rule of law,” said Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence.
The Royal Canadian Navy is planning several events on May 4th and throughout 2010 to mark this significant moment in Canada's naval history within the context of the centennial theme of "Bring the Navy to Canadians." Events are aimed at honouring the past, showcasing the current navy and reinforcing the requirement for the future navy. more >>
Prime Minister Stephen Harper issued the following statement today on the death of a Canadian Forces member:
“I am deeply saddened by the loss of Petty Officer Second Class Craig Blake, who died after an improvised explosive device detonated during a dismounted operation. On behalf of the Canadian people, I would like to extend my deepest sympathies to his family and friends during this difficult time. Petty Officer Blake was a brave Canadian who made the ultimate sacrifice while proudly serving his country. Thanks to Canadian Forces members like Petty Officer Blake, we are making progress in Afghanistan in creating a better future for the Afghan people.
Canada is in Afghanistan at the request of the democratically elected Afghan government and as part of a United Nations-mandated, NATO-led mission, helping the Afghan people rebuild their country and its institutions. Our Canadian Forces members face this difficult task, in an extremely harsh environment, with courage and honour, and serve as a representation of Canadian values to the world.
This is a loss for Canada and the Canadian Forces – but it was not in vain. With the help of the international community, Afghans are rebuilding their communities and improving their lives.
Let us never forget Petty Officer Blake, who died trying to make life better for others.” more >>
Prime Minister Stephen Harper today announced that he will travel to Brussels, Belgium, to participate in the Canada-European Union (EU) Summit taking place on May 5. Following the Summit, he will travel to the Netherlands May 6-7, Croatia May 7-8, as well as Germany on May 8.
“Canada and the European Union are tremendous economic partners committed to promoting jobs and growth at home and around the globe,” said Prime Minister Harper. “This Summit will enable us to look toward expanding free trade between Canada and the EU and to focus on accelerating the international economic recovery. “
During Summit meetings with President of the European Council, Herman Van Rompuy, President of the European Commission, José Manuel Barroso and, President of the European Parliament, Jerzy Buzek, Prime Minister Harper will also discuss development, international peace and security, as well as other global issues, including climate change.
Following his time in Brussels, the Prime Minister will travel to the Netherlands. There, he will participate in events to commemorate the 65th anniversary of the liberation of that country at the end of World War II in which Canadian forces played a leading role. He will also meet with Dutch Prime Minister Jan Peter Balkenende.
"Canada and the Netherlands enjoy a special relationship. My visit will be an occasion to honour the sacrifice of those who fought to free the Netherlands from Nazi occupation. It will also underscore the strength of the links that connect our two countries today and the confidence with which we look together to the future," said Prime Minister Harper.
The Prime Minister will also travel to Croatia for meetings with Croatian Prime Minister Jadranka Kosor and President Ivo Josipovic.
“We welcome Croatia’s active role in promoting peace and security in the region and beyond, and look forward to further growth in our bilateral relations,” said the Prime Minister.
Finally, Prime Minister Harper will travel to Germany where he will meet German Chancellor Angela Merkel to discuss, among other issues, the Canada-hosted Muskoka G8 and Toronto G20 summits.
"Through engagement with countries both within and outside the G8 and G20, Canada is seeking to build wide support for effective action at the Muskoka and Toronto summits in June, under the summits’ general theme of ‘Recovery and New Beginnings,’" said the Prime Minister. more >>
