OTTAWA,
ON, May 25, 2024 /CNW/ - The Prime Minister,
Justin Trudeau, today issued the
following statement on Africa Day:
"Sixty-one years ago today, representatives of African countries
founded the Organization of African Unity, now the African Union.
On this anniversary, we join our partners to celebrate this
important union that has made strides toward a more peaceful,
sustainable, and prosperous African continent.
"Canada has deep friendships
with many African countries, anchored by our shared communities and
strong partnerships on the world stage. Last year, we welcomed the
African Union's membership to the G20. With 55 members representing
more than 1.4 billion people, the African Union makes
multilateral organizations – such as the Commonwealth, La
Francophonie, and the United Nations – stronger, more inclusive,
and more dynamic. There are also over 1.3 million Canadians of
African descent, and their contributions enrich our communities
across the country.
"As we celebrate 15 years as a permanent observer to the African
Union, Canada remains firmly
committed to strengthening our collaboration with African partners.
We will also support African-led solutions to the challenges facing
the continent. This includes our ongoing work through our
Canada-African Union Commission Dialogues and Canada's new dedicated mission to the African
Union in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia,
which opened its doors last year. From promoting peace and
democracy, to advancing climate action, to growing our economies –
the partnership between Canada and
the African Union will only get stronger.
"In the spirit of this year's Africa Day theme, 'Education Fit
for the 21st Century', we are working with our African counterparts
to support quality education throughout the African continent,
including in sexual and reproductive health. Every year,
Canada also welcomes tens of
thousands of students from African countries, who contribute their
talent and innovation to our country.
"On behalf of the Government of Canada, I wish everyone celebrating a happy
Africa Day. Together, we will build a better, fairer, and more
prosperous world for all."
This document is also available at https://pm.gc.ca
SOURCE Prime Minister's Office