September 22, 2014 - New York City, United States
Check Against Delivery
Good afternoon everyone.
Thank you for being here today.
I hope that you are as excited about this initiative as I am.
To me, this is just one more example of Canadian leadership and innovation on the world stage.
As you all know, in 2010, Prime Minister Harper made maternal, newborn and child health a Canadian priority.
Our government drew the world’s attention to this critical issue and leveraged global funds.
But it was Canadians who took up the torch and delivered real results.
And, with this event and this initiative, UNICEF Canada is doing that once again.
With key partners such as the Canadian Soccer Association and Teck Resources, Canadians are making a difference.
We know that immense progress has been made.
That millions more children are reaching their 5th birthday.
And that thousands more mothers are surviving pregnancy and childbirth.
But we also know how much work is left to be done.
That is why, last May, the Prime Minister hosted an international summit on maternal, newborn and child health.
And it is why we re-upped.
At that summit, Canada committed $3.5 billion dollars over the next five years to save the lives of mothers and children.
For Canada, the need to act is clear.
We cannot stand idly by while women and young children in developing countries suffer deaths that could be easily and inexpensively prevented.
But I firmly believe we must pursue new and innovative approaches if we are to meet our goals.
Canada’s number one focus is delivering results for those in need.
But government alone has neither the resources nor the expertise to meet this global challenge.
We must explore new models for innovative financing.
We must work with fellow donors and multilateral agencies.
With foundations, the private sector and NGOs.
Or, more likely, with any combination of the above.
That is what makes this initiative so unique.
By bringing together NGOs, the private sector and driven individuals, under the umbrella of sport, we are looking in a new direction.
UNICEF is truly building an all-star team.
Of goodwill ambassadors, executives, athletes and philanthropists.
Of dynamic women committed to saving the lives of children around the world.
You have already been told that over the next four years you will take ‘‘a journey of a lifetime.’’
I know that is true.
Because as Canada’s Minister of International Development and La Francophonie, I have seen what you will see.
Experienced what you will experience.
And I can tell you that despite the difficulties.
Despite the challenges.
There is great inspiration to be found.
And there is no better way to truly understand the impact that Canada is having in the world.
Our contributions—and now yours—are quite literally saving thousands of lives.
It is as simple as that.
As members of ‘‘The 25th Team,’’ your contributions will be invaluable.
So thank you, for taking up this challenge.
For stepping up to the plate when UNICEF Canada, the Canadian Soccer Association and Teck Resources called.
Thank you for the work you will do.
And the difference you will make.
Canada is proud to be hosting the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2015.
And we too believe that when you bring together the world’s most powerful women, the world should win.
Thank you.
