Prosperity through Partnership: Statement by Secretary of State Sarai to celebrate International Development Week

February 1, 2026 - Ottawa, Ontario - Global Affairs Canada

The Honourable Randeep Sarai, Secretary of State (International Development), today issued the following statement:

“Canada’s international development initiatives help foster healthier communities, build stronger economies and promote global stability. International development partnerships reduce poverty and build relationships and can help diversify our trade by creating opportunities for Canadian businesses, exporters and investors in emerging markets.

“Canada’s approach to international development is rooted in gender equality, dignity and sustainability so that development progress creates opportunities for all. Working alongside local communities, civil society organizations and partner countries, Canada’s international development initiatives help reduce extreme poverty and build peace and resilience. We make strategic investments to fight the climate crisis, prevent the spread of infectious diseases and improve food security because we know that these issues also impact Canadians’ everyday lives, including our food prices, job market, health and security.

“Through their donations, or by volunteering or working with Canadian civil society organizations, thousands of Canadians support international development initiatives each year. We can be proud of Canadians’ care and compassion, whether they are students from Quebec advocating for climate justice or farmers from Alberta or Prince Edward Island sharing their expertise with farmers around the world. Diaspora communities across Canada also play an important role in giving back, strengthening mutual understanding and identifying opportunities for cooperation.

“This International Development Week, I look forward to connecting with Canadians to highlight how international development initiatives build prosperity through partnership here at home and around the world.”