Corruption is destructive in all its forms

December 9, 2016 - Ottawa, Ontario - Global Affairs Canada

The Honourable Stéphane Dion, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and the Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of International Development and La Francophonie, today issued the following statement on International Anti-corruption Day:

“Corruption is a major obstacle to sustainable development and is destructive in all its forms. Whether used to seek unfair advantages, evade justice, gain power or impose hardship, corruption leaves little room for democracy to flourish and economic growth to be inclusive. It keeps people down, disproportionately affecting the poor by diverting resources from essential services such as health care and education.

“Canada is committed to tackling corruption both domestically and internationally. In diverse forums, we engage in multilateral treaty and political processes that aim to reduce the scope and impact of corruption. With our international assistance, we look to strengthen transparent, inclusive and accountable governance systems, including by building the capacity of local and regional governments and civil society organizations working in the communities to fight corruption.

“We also expect Canadian organizations operating overseas to follow applicable Canadian laws and the laws of host countries and to not pay bribes to foreign public officials.

“No country is entirely free of corruption, and governments cannot stop it on their own. But peace and stability are more probable when people trust their institutions. As we mark International Anti-corruption Day, let us renew our commitment to working with civil society, business and other governments to fight corruption and give confidence to all citizens that their rights and best interests are protected.”

Contacts

Chantal Gagnon
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs
343-203-1851
chantal.gagnon@international.gc.ca

Bernard Boutin
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of International Development and La Francophonie
343-203-5977
bernard.boutin@international.gc.ca

Media Relations Office
Global Affairs Canada
343-203-7700
media@international.gc.ca
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