Minister Paradis reiterates Canada’s commitment to promote an economically dynamic Francophonie at the 5th Congrès mondial acadien
August 21, 2014 – Edmundston, New Brunswick – Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada
The Honourable Christian Paradis, Minister of International Development and La Francophonie, underlined the importance of minority communities in the implementation of the Economic Strategy for La Francophonie. In an address made to the Acadian community and international representatives gathered in Edmundston today, he recognized the constructive role of the Congrès mondial acadien (CMA) as part of the Economic Summit in building a strong economy in La Francophonie.
The summit, which aims at facilitating the development of economic connections and partnerships, brings together entrepreneurs, business development and political actors from the region, as well as the national and international francophone community.
“Economic development is an essential element of solidarity within La Francophonie,” said Minister Paradis. “Sustainable economic growth is, for example, closely linked to human and social development, as well as poverty reduction. This is what the CMA and the Economic Summit are all about.”
The Minister also hosted a Francophonie economic round table with representatives of New Brunswick private sector companies and civil society organizations working in La Francophonie member countries. This round table is the fifth in a series hosted by Minister Paradis as part of Canada’s preparations for the 15th Summit of La Francophonie, which will take place in Dakar, Senegal, on November 29–30, 2014. The theme of the Dakar Summit will be Women and Youth in La Francophonie: Agents for Peace and Development.
During his remarks at the CMA Economic Summit, Minister Paradis also highlighted the candidacy of the Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean, former governor general of Canada and current UNESCO special envoy to Haiti, to succeed the outgoing Secretary General of the International Organization of La Francophonie, His Excellency Abdou Diouf. Canada, together with the governments of Quebec and New Brunswick, have endorsed her candidacy. The next secretary general of the OIF will be chosen at the Dakar Summit.
At the Dakar Summit, member countries, including Canada, will work toward the adoption of the Economic Strategy for La Francophonie. Canada’s efforts have focused on a strengthened role for the private sector in stimulating sustainable economic growth, free market access, international cooperation and local development, education, research and development, growth in a digital economy, green economy and transparent governance. Canada will also emphasize the priority of maternal, newborn and child health; food security; and child protection, including the fight against child, early and forced marriage.
Sandrine Périon
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of International Development and La Francophonie
343-203-6238
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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