On Father's Day we celebrate the contributions fathers all over the world make to their communities, families, and children. Although fathers are often portrayed as income earners and providers, they offer so much more: they can also be mentors, confidants, educators, role models, and caregivers. They are husbands, grandfathers, uncles, and friends. As such, they can help to create nurturing and protective environments that enable children to develop, learn, and grow up to be productive members of society. In short, they help ensure that families can grow together, celebrate successes, and overcome challenges.
To enable fathers to have the greatest positive effect on their families and communities, Canada supports initiatives to create jobs and raise incomes, providing possibilities for prosperity. Improvements to infrastructure coupled with an investment in workforce skills can help to increase access to markets, improve business productivity, and create decent jobs—all of which contribute to higher rates of economic growth and poverty reduction.
In Indonesia, for example, Canada is contributing to programs and services that help entrepreneurs and improve opportunities for increased income. And in the Caribbean, Canada helps to enhance the competitiveness of local businesses, and we support technical and vocational training that gives workers the skills they need to take on more meaningful employment.
As a father and grandfather myself, I recognize the challenges and responsibilities that come with being a father, and I also understand how fulfilling the rewards can be. On Father's Day, we thank all the fathers who are creating a better future for their children, their families, and their communities, and urge them to continue to do so.
Julian Fantino
Minister of International Cooperation
