Canada announces humanitarian assistance in response to crisis in Venezuela
News release
May 14, 2018 - Mexico City, Mexico - Global Affairs Canada
The Honourable Chrystia Freeland, Minister of Foreign Affairs, on behalf of the Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of International Development and La Francophonie, today announced humanitarian assistance to Latin America and the Caribbean, including to people affected by the crisis in Venezuela.
Due to the deepening economic, political and humanitarian crisis being fuelled by the Maduro regime, growing numbers of Venezuelans are fleeing to neighbouring countries, such as Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru and the Southern Caribbean. As a result, there is urgent need for access to shelter, health care and other essential services.
Today, Canada is contributing $1.3 million to the World Food Programme and Action Against Hunger in Colombia for food security, access to clean water and sanitation. Additionally, Canada is providing $4 million in funding for regional humanitarian assistance channelled through the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees and the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs.
Quotes
“The crisis in Venezuela is having severe consequences on the entire region, with thousands of Venezuelans fleeing their homes seeking refuge from dire circumstances. They deserve better. Canada stands with the people of Venezuela and the region as they face the magnitude of this difficult crisis.”
- Hon. Chrystia Freeland, P.C., M.P., Minister of Foreign Affairs
“Venezuelans live in increasingly difficult conditions, with many fleeing the country. Canada’s support will help experienced partner organizations respond to the growing humanitarian needs in the region. It will provide much-needed relief for those affected by the crisis and help alleviate some of their suffering.”
- Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of International Development and La Francophonie
Quick facts
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Since 2017, Canada has provided $910,000 in humanitarian assistance funding to directly help meet the needs of the most vulnerable populations affected by the crisis, both in Venezuela and for those who have fled to Colombia. With the additional $1.3 million in humanitarian assistance funding, Canada’s contribution to the humanitarian needs resulting from the Venezuela crisis amounts to $2.21 million.
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The Lima Group was established on August 8, 2017, to coordinate participating countries’ efforts and apply international pressure on Venezuela.
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Canada hosted the third ministerial meeting of the Lima Group in Toronto, Ontario, on October 26, 2017. The sixth meeting of the Lima Group was held in Mexico City on May 14, 2018.
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Canada has imposed two rounds of sanctions on members of the Maduro regime.
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The Lima Group is committed to applying pressure on Venezuela’s government until the full restoration of democracy in the country is achieved.
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Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs
Adam.Austen@international.gc.ca
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Global Affairs Canada
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media@international.gc.ca
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