Canada a global leader in efforts to ensure sustainable, transparent and responsible resource development and economic growth
June 11, 2014 - Montréal, Quebec - Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada
The Honourable Christian Paradis, Minister of International Development and La Francophonie, highlighted Canada’s commitment to creating jobs and improved livelihoods for the world’s most vulnerable, especially by maximizing the benefits of development in the natural resource sector.
“Creating sustainable economic growth is our most effective tool in reducing poverty,” said Minister Paradis in an address at the Conférence de Montréal. “We need to leverage private sector involvement and look at it not only as a way to build economic success, but also as the foundation of successful development.”
Minister Paradis noted that Canada’s efforts in developing countries help ensure that all citizens benefit from the economic growth that comes from their rich resource wealth
“Creating shared economic growth creates jobs, and brings better education and training,” said the Minister. “It is about greater access to health care services for mothers and children—a Canadian priority—and it is about better revenue and wealth distribution so everyone can reap the rewards.”
In support of these efforts, Minister Paradis announced Canada’s support for two projects aimed at helping developing countries leverage private sector economic investment and resources. The projects will help facilitate increased trade and investment opportunities that will create jobs and reduce global poverty. The projects will also open up access to the financial services which are critical to ensuring entrepreneurs and businesses in developing countries can access investment and trade opportunities that benefit all citizens.
The Minister concluded by emphasizing the importance of involving the private sector in global efforts to reduce poverty. These efforts range from promoting quality education and training to greater access to health care services for mothers and children—Canada’s top international development priority.
Sandrine Perion
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of International Development and La Francophonie
819-953-9528
sandrine.perion@international.gc.ca
Media Relations Office
Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada
343-203-7700
media@international.gc.ca
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