Baird to lead Canadian Delegation to the United Nations General Assembly
September 27, 2012 - Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird travels to New York City from September 27 to October 1, 2012, as head of the Canadian delegation during high-level portions of this year’s United Nations General Assembly.
“At a time of economic uncertainty, violent strife and blistering social change in so many corners of the globe, Canada has an even more important role to play around the world,” said Baird. “At this year’s General Assembly, we will work with our partners to advance the values and ideals that make our country great and serve as a model for the world: a pluralistic civil society that respects fundamental freedoms, democracy, human rights and the rule of law.”
Baird will take part in discussions on Haiti’s future September 27 and will help push for Commonwealth reforms September 28 and 29.
Baird will strengthen bilateral relations in private meetings with a number of his global counterparts. He will also deliver Canada’s address to the General Assembly on the morning of October 1.
On September 25, the Honourable Julian Fantino, Minister of International Cooperation, led efforts to galvanize global action on the need for accountability for public investments made to support Canada’s development priorities—in particular, nutrition and food security, as well as the Maternal, Newborn and Child Health initiative—in a series of events and meetings with his counterparts.
The Honourable Diane Ablonczy, Minister of State of Foreign Affairs (Americas and Consular Affairs), will represent Canada at various bilateral meetings to highlight Canada’s commitment to long-term partnerships in the hemisphere and to advance Canada’s goals in the Americas of increasing economic opportunity, strengthening security and institutions, and building lasting relationships.
The Honourable Peter Kent, Minister of the Environment, will be participating in the Major Economies Forum on Energy and Climate. Deepak Obhrai, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Senator Hugh Segal, Canada’s special envoy for Commonwealth renewal, will also be part of the Canadian delegation at the General Assembly.
“As a founding UN member and one of its leading contributors, Canada will speak out to fight for values and principles Canadians hold dear,” said Baird. “Canada has a strong team lined up to represent our country and our interests as the world again gathers in New York.”
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