Minister Garneau appearance at the Committee of the Whole on the 2019-2020 Supplementary Estimates A on December 9, 2019: Global Affairs Canada

From: Transport Canada

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Supplementary Estimates A

Financial summary

Funding to help developing countries address the impact of climate change: overview

  • Global Affairs Canada is requesting total funding of $296.0 million for 2019–2020 via Supplementary Estimates (A) to advance programming designed to help developing countries address the impacts of climate change.
  • This funding is included in the $2.65 billion announcement by the Prime Minster at the 2015 Paris Climate conference to support the developing countries.

Funding for the International Assistance Envelope Crisis Pool Quick Release Mechanism: overview

  • Global Affairs Canada is seeking to reprofile $175.6 million via the Supplementary Estimates (A) to replenish the International Assistance Envelope Crisis Pool Quick Release Mechanism.
  • The purpose of the reprofile exercise is to replenish the International Assistance Envelope Crisis Pool in the current fiscal year (2019–2020) to allow the government greater flexibility in responding to international crises.

Funding to implement the Feminist International Assistance Agenda: overview

  • Global Affairs Canada is requesting funding of $56.9 million for 2019–2020 via Supplementary Estimates (A) to support the new Innovative Finance Programs.
  • Budget 2018 announced an increase of $1.5 billion for the creation of the International Assistance Innovation Program and the Sovereign Loans Program.

Funding for Canada's participation in Expo 2020 Dubai, United Arab Emirates: overview

  • Global Affairs Canada is requesting funding of $21.3 million for 2019–2020 via Supplementary Estimates (A) to support Canada's participation in Expo 2020 Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
  • Budget 2019 announced an allocation of $40.0 million for Canada’s participation at the World Expo in 2020 in Dubai.

Funding to support Operation IMPACT through the Middle East Strategy (Re-profile from 2018-19): overview

  • On behalf of the Department of National Defence, Global Affairs Canada is seeking access to $11.8 million that has been re-profiled via the 2019–2020 Supplementary Estimates (A) to support Operation IMPACT projects under the Middle East Strategy.
  • Overall, Global Affairs Canada sought to re-profile $15.7 million from 2018-19 to support Operation IMPACT, of which $11.8 million is re-profiled to 2019–2020 via the Supplementary Estimates (A) and $3.9 million will be re-profiled to 2020–2021 via the Main Estimates.

Funding for the International Education Strategy: overview

  • Global Affairs Canada is requesting funding of $3.3 million for 2019–2020 via Supplementary Estimates (A) to support the implementation of the Global Affairs Canada portion of the new International Education Strategy.
  • As part of Budget 2019, building on the commitment in the 2018 Fall Economic Statement to develop a new International Education Strategy, the Government proposed to invest $147.9 million over five years, starting in 2019–20, and $8.0 million per year ongoing.
  • Of the $147.9 million for the horizontal initiative, Global Affairs Canada received $34.0 million.

Funding for the Corporate Social Responsibility Strategy for Canadian Businesses Operating Abroad: overview

  • Global Affairs Canada is requesting funding of $1.0 million for 2019–2020 via Supplementary Estimates (A) to implement a strengthened Corporate Social Responsibility Strategy.
  • Budget 2018 announced an investment of $6.8 million over six years (starting in 2017-18) and $1.3 million on-going to fund a strengthened Corporate Social Responsibility Strategy that will bolster Canada’s commitment to responsible trade and investment and corporate accountability abroad.

Funding for the construction of Canada’s High Commission in Colombo, Sri Lanka: overview

  • Global Affairs Canada is requesting funding of $654,391 for 2019–2020 via Supplementary Estimates (A) to support the Colombo Chancery Relocation in Sri Lanka.
  • The rehabilitation and expansion of the chancery in Colombo will be completed in 2023/2024 [REDACTED / RÉDIGÉ].

Administration of new free trade agreement measures and steel safeguards: overview

  • Budget 2019 allocated two years of funding to Global Affairs Canada via Budget Implementation Vote 30 for the “Administration of new free trade agreement measures and steel safeguards” as follows: $11.4 million in 2019–2020 and $3.5 million in 2020–2021.
  • The funding will be used to administer new tariff-rate quotas under the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership, Canada-United-Sates-Mexico Agreement and potential safeguards on certain steel products.

Funding for protecting Canada’s national security: overview

  • Global Affairs Canada Global Affairs Canada received $979,161 in 2019–2020 via the 2019 Budget Implementation Vote 35 to support funding for Protecting Canada’s National Security.
  • Budget 2019 proposed investing $67.3 million over five years, starting in 2019–2020 and $13.8 million ongoing, to Public Safety Canada; Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada; Global Affairs Canada; and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), among other federal agencies.

Funding for protecting democracy: overview

  • Global Affairs Canada received $670,211 in 2019–2020 via the Budget 2019 Implementation Vote 40 for Protecting Democracy.
  • Budget 2019 is setting aside funding over a five-year period to implement a number of new measures to further strengthen and safeguard Canada’s democratic institutions.
  • Global Affairs Canada will receive $2.1 million over three years to establish and coordinate a Rapid Response Mechanism unit to strengthen cooperation and information sharing amongst G7 members in response to foreign threats to democracies.

Funding for the renewing Canada’s Middle East Strategy (Budget 2019): overview

  • Global Affairs Canada has received funding of $249.7 million for 2019–2020 via the Budget Implementation Vote 45 to support Renewing Canada’s Middle East Strategy.
  • Budget 2019 confirmed the Government’s plan to provide up to an additional $1.39 billion over two years to renew the Middle East Strategy.

Funding for the Arctic: overview

  • Budget 2019 announced the Arctic and Northern Policy Framework with $308 million over 5 years in new funding to ensure that Arctic and Northern communities can continue to grow and prosper – of this total, Global Affairs Canada international programming budget in the Arctic was increased by $34.1 million over 5 years beginning in 2019–2020 and ongoing.
  • The amount includes $28.7 million in grants and contributions, 4 full-time employees in support of Arctic programming and Arctic security, and operations.
  • The funding has been set aside in the Treasury Board Central Vote 50 (government-wide initiatives) and will be brought into the Department in the Spring of 2020.

Funding for the Export Diversification Strategy: overview

  • Through the Treasury Board Central Vote 10 (Government-Wide Initiatives), Global Affairs Canada received $31.3 million in 2019–2020 to support the Export Diversification Strategy.
  • In the 2018 Fall Economic Statement, the Government announced the Export Diversification Strategy with a $1.1 billion investment over six years that includes a $289.5 million investment in Global Affairs Canada’s Trade Commissioner Service to help Canadian businesses access new markets.

Funding for the modernization of the Program and Administrative Services (PA) Group: overview

  • Through the Treasury Board Central Vote 10 (Government-Wide Initiatives), Global Affairs Canada received $233,763 in 2019–2020 to support the Program and Administrative Services (PA) Modernization Initiative.
  • The Treasury Board authorized an allocation to implement the new classification standards for the PA group, across the Government of Canada.

Critics biographies

Honourable Erin O’Toole, Conservative Critic for Foreign Affairs

 

Erin O’Toole is a lawyer and former Officer in the Royal Canadian Air Force from Ontario. He is the Conservative MP for Durham and was first elected to the House of Commons in a by-election in 2012.

During the 41st Parliament MP O’Toole served as the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of International Trade (2013 to 2015) before being named Minister of Veterans Affairs in 2015.

In 2017 MP O’Toole ran for the leadership of the Conservative Party of Canada and came in third place. He was then appointed as the Official Opposition critic for Foreign Affairs. MP O’Toole has a number of interests related to Global Affairs’ files including: CUSMA, North Korea, China, Israel, FDI in Canada, Ukraine/Op UNIFIER, Human Rights and Ballistic Missile Defence.

Colin Carrie, Conservative Critic for Canada-US relations

 

Colin Carrie is a chiropractor from Ontario. Carrie has been the Member of Parliament for Oshawa since 2004. He is the former Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministers of Industry, Health and Environment.

During the 42nd Parliament MP Carrie sat on the International Trade committee and often raised questions related to the automotive and manufacturing industry, as well as carbon pricing.

Randy Hoback, Conservative Critic for International Trade

 

Randy Hoback is a businessman and farmer from Alberta. Hoback has been the Member of Parliament for Prince Albert since 2008. He is the former Conservative critic for Canada-US relations

During the 42nd Parliament MP Hoback sat on the International Trade committee and often raised questions regarding softwood lumber tariffs, supply management, Canola exports and support for SME’s impacted by section 232 tariffs.

Honourable Mike Lake, Conservative Critic for International Development

 

Mike Lake is a businessman and sports executive from Alberta. Lake was the Member of Parliament for Edmonton-Mill Woods-Beaumont from 2006 to 2015 and the MP for Edmonton-Wetaskiwin since 2015. He is the former Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Industry.

During the 42nd Parliament MP Lake sat on the Environment and Sustainable Development committee and the Industry, Science and Technology committee. During the 42nd Parliament he raised questions related to persons with disabilities, the energy sector, and Dept-to-GDP ratio.

James Cumming, Conservative Critic for Small Business and Export Promotion

 

James Cumming is an entrepreneur and the former President and CEO of the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce. Cumming is the newly elected Member of Parliament for Edmonton Centre.

MP Cumming’s website states that he is interested in attracting investment, creating jobs, and combating economic and environmental policies that negatively affect Alberta.

Jack Harris, New Democratic Party (NDP) Critic for Foreign Affairs

 

Jack Harris is a lawyer and politician from Newfoundland and Labrador. Harris is the NDP MP for St. John's East. He represented the riding from 1987-1988 and again from 2008 to2015, when he was defeated, before winning the seat again in 2019. He is also the former leader of the Newfoundland and Labrador New Democratic Party (1992 to 2006).

During the 40th and 41st Parliaments MP Harris served as the NDP critic for National Defence. In the 43rd Parliament he has been appointed as the NDP Critic for Foreign Affairs, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, and as the Deputy Critic for Defence.

Heather McPherson, NDP Critic for International Development

 

Heather McPherson was a member of the Canadian delegation to the United Nations and the former executive director of the Alberta Council on Global Co-operation. McPherson is the newly elected Member of Parliament for Edmonton Strathcona.

MP McPherson’s website states that she has an interest in poverty reduction, human rights, environmental protection, and gender equality.

Daniel Blaikie, NDP Critic for International Trade and Export Promotion

 

Daniel Blaikie is an electrician, the former executive of the Winnipeg Labour Council, and a former advisor to the Minister of Health for the Government of Manitoba. Blaikie has been the Member of Parliament for Elmwood-Transcona since 2015.

During the 42nd Parliament MP Blaikie sat on the Government Operations and Estimates committee and the Access to Information, Privacy and Ethics committee. During the 42nd Parliament he raised questions related to pharmaceutical costs, CUSMA, and expungement of convictions related to cannabis.

Stéphane Bergeron, Bloc Québécois (BQ) Critic for Foreign Affairs

 

Stéphane Bergeron is a former teaching assistant and political advisor and politician from Quebec. He is the Bloc Québécois MP for Montarville. He represented the neighbouring riding of Verchères—Les Patriotes from 1993 to 2005 before resigning to run in provincial politics. He was elected as the Parti Québécois MNA for Verchères from 2005 to 2018 and served as the Minister of Public Security from 2012 to 2014.

In previous parliaments, MP Bergeron served as the BQ critic for Foreign Affairs and as the party whip. In the 43rd Parliament he has been appointed as the BQ Critic for Foreign Affairs, Intergovernmental Affairs and for the notion of a single federal/provincial tax filing.

Hot issues: Canada-China Bilateral Relations

Last modified: 2019-12-05

Issue:

Issues related to Canada-China Bilateral Relations

Responsive lines:

Canada is deeply concerned by China's actions, including the arbitrary detention and arbitrary sentencing of Canadian citizens.

Canada calls for the immediate release of Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor, and we call for clemency for Canadians facing the death penalty.

Canada recognizes the importance of engagement with China. China is Canada's third largest merchandise trading partner, and an important market for Canadian business.

In complex bilateral relationships, there will be difficult moments, but we will continue to look for ways to move forward.

Hot issues: Canada - U.S Relationship

Last modified: 2019-12-06

Issue:

Canada's overall relationship with the United States

Responsive lines:

No two nations depend more on each other for their mutual prosperity and security than Canada and the United States. By working together we make our hemisphere a safer and more secure place.

As the Prime Minister has said, the relationship between Canada and the U.S. is deep and goes far beyond the relationship of any one government.

It takes a concerted effort by all levels of government to maintain that relationship, including by members of the House. Since 2017, the PM, Cabinet members, Premiers and Parliamentarians have undertaken over 530 meetings with U.S. officials to advocate for Canadian interests.

We also closely cooperate to ensure the safety and security of the 8,900 kilometer-long border. This past summer we implemented new Entry/Exit and preclearance provisions that strengthen the integrity of our border while ensuring the efficient movement of people and goods.

Hot issues: Canada's United Nations Security Council Campaign

Last modified: 2019-12-04

Issue:

Canada is running for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UN Security Council) for the 2021 to 2022 term, at elections in June 2020. Canada is competing against Norway and Ireland for two available seats in our regional group.

Responsive lines:

Canada wants to contribute to innovative ideas, global connections, and share its expertise to help address the world's most pressing challenges. This is why Canada is running for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for the 2021 to 2022 term.

None of the world's pressing challenges that we face today can be solved alone. Canada needs to be part of a multilateral approach in order to effectively address climate change, economic inequality and insecurity, the global refugee situation, conflict and violent extremism.

Canada has identified five priorities if elected to the Security Council: sustaining peace, addressing climate change, promoting economic security, advancing gender equality, and strengthening multilateralism.

[If pressed - Canada's late entry] Canada is deeply committed to working with our international partners and has been leveraging all opportunities to discuss how we can build a more peaceful, inclusive and sustainable world together.

[cost] A campaign for a non-permanent seat on the UN requires time and resources. Canada is running a fiscally-responsible campaign, which will allow us to strengthen our diplomatic ties in the process and advance other priorities such as the Sustainable Development Goals.

Releasable background:

On March 16, 2016, Prime Minister Trudeau announced Canada's candidature for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for the 2021 to 2022 term. The election will be held in June 2020 in New York. Canada is competing against Norway and Ireland for two available seats in our regional group.

The UN Security Council has primary responsibility under the UN Charter for maintaining international peace and security. It is the most powerful and exclusive UN body and the only one that can authorize military action, establish peacekeeping missions and apply economic sanctions. It is alone amongst the UN bodies in being able to adopt decisions that are legally-binding on all UN member states.

Given its responsibilities and limited membership (15 members, of which five are permanent), a seat on the Council is highly sought-after, and the demands of membership are significant given the Council's fast-paced agenda and extensive mandate.

[If pressed - Cost] As of October 31, 2019, $1.943 million has been spent on operational expenditures for the UN Security Council campaign. This figure does not include staff salaries, which come from existing resources. Staffing levels for 2019 to 2020 include 13 full-time positions currently assigned to work on the UN Security Council campaign.

[If pressed - Envoys] The Prime Minister has asked the Hon. Joe Clark and the Honourable Jean Charest to serve as Special Envoys for Canada's UN Security Council candidacy. They have both travelled to a number of countries to discuss shared priorities and to help advance Canada's UN Security Council bid.

Hot issues: Canada-Saudi Arabia Bilateral Relations

Last modified: 2019-12-06

Issue:

The bilateral relationship with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) remains fractured as Saudi punitive measures against Canada remain in place.

Responsive lines:

Canada will always stand up for the protection of human rights, including women's rights and freedom of expression, around the world. These are values that we share with many allies and partners on the world stage.

Canada remains concerned about the dispute's impact on Canadian citizens and businesses.

In 2019, Canada strengthened its export permit legislation and acceded to the UN Arms Trade Treaty (ATT). All export permit applications are assessed on a case-by-case basis against the ATT criteria, regardless of the country of destination,

The Government's review of arms exports to Saudi Arabia, announced in November 2018, is still ongoing and no final decision has been made.

No new export permits for controlled goods and technology have been issued during the review period. We must await the findings of the final review.

Releasable background:

G20 Presidency: KSA is chair of the G20, 2020. Hosting a number of meetings throughout the year culminating in the Leaders' Summit in November. KSA presidency is criticized by some human rights groups.

Bilateral Dispute: The last ministerial engagement was an exchange between the Minister of International Trade and his Saudi counterpart on the margins of the G20 Trade Ministerial in June.

Human Rights: KSA's overall human rights record remains poor, freedom of expression remains highly restricted. The dismantlement of the guardianship system, including lifting the ban on women driving and removing women's restrictions to obtain passports, improved their life and allowed them to participate more actively in society. Trials and detention of women's rights activists are an indication of the State's unwillingness to allow personal expression and desire to control its subjects.

Review of Arms Exports: In November 2018, in the aftermath of the killing of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi, former Minister of Foreign Affairs Chrystia Freeland announced a review of arms exports to KSA and effectively imposed a moratorium on the issuance of new export permits for controlled goods and technology to KSA during the review period. No new export permits have been issued for controlled items destined to KSA. On September 17, 2019, the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs provided an interim update to the Minister of Foreign Affairs on the review. When it was made public on November 13, 2019. Since November 2018, officials have been examining areas of concern, including the human rights situation in KSA and the conflict in Yemen to identify the types of exports that could be considered to give rise to a risk. Officials conducting the review are taking into account various considerations, including reporting by UN fact-finding bodies and by non-governmental organisations, and recent media reports. To date, officials have found no credible evidence linking Canadian exports of military equipment or other controlled items to any IHRL and IHL violations committed by the Saudi government. This review is still ongoing. No final decision has been made.

Hot issues: Exports of military, dual-use and strategic goods and technology

Last modified: 2019-12-06

Issue:

There has been sustained media and public attention in recent years regarding the legislation (Export and Import Permits Act - EIPA), policy, and procedures controlling the export of military and strategic goods and technology.

Responsive lines:

Canada has taken firm action to strengthen our export controls regime, passing legislation that enshrines human rights into export laws. On September 1, 2019, changes to the Export and Import Permits Act came into force. Canada became a State Party to the Arms Trade Treaty on September 17.

Regardless of destination, as part of the Government's robust risk assessment process, all export permit applications are assessed on a case-by case basis to determine what the goods or technology will be used for, where they will be used and by whom, among other factors.

Officials assess export permit applications against mandatory Arms Trade Treaty criteria including among other things international humanitarian law and human rights law,

Exports of military, dual-use and strategic goods and technology are very strictly regulated. We take seriously any reports of misuse or diversion.

Should the Government become aware of information suggesting that a military dual-use or strategic good or technology is being misused, the related export permit may be suspended or cancelled. This information would be factored into the assessment any future permit application.

Releasable background:

Canada's export controls regime is set out in the Export and Import Permits Act (EIPA), which delegates to the Minister of Foreign Affairs wide discretionary powers to control the flow of goods and technology contained in specified lists (e.g. the Export Control List or ECL) created under the EIPA.

Canada's export controls are not meant to hinder international trade, but to regulate and impose restrictions on exports in response to clear policy objectives. These objectives include ensuring that Canadian export controls are consistent with Canada's foreign and defence policies, including respect for human rights and international peace and security.

The Export Control List (ECL) includes military, dual-use and strategic goods and technology that are controlled for export from Canada to other countries. The ECL is comprised of eight groups of goods and technology that are based primarily on Canada's participation in multilateral export control and non-proliferation regimes: the Wassenaar Arrangement, the Nuclear Suppliers Group, the Missile Technology Control Regime and the Australia Group.

The Government committed to further strengthening the rigour and transparency of Canada's export controls. To this end, Canada recently amended the EIPA to allow Canada to accede to the Arms Trade Treaty (ATT). These amendments and associated regulations (on brokering and transparency) came into force on September 1, 2019. Canada officially became a State Party to the ATT on September 17, 2019.

Hot issues: The Government of Canada's response to incidents in Cuba affecting Canadian diplomats

Last modified: 2019-12-04

Issue:

Questions may arise regarding measures taken by Canada in response to the unusual symptoms reported by some Canadian diplomats and family members in Cuba.

Responsive lines:

The health, safety, and security of diplomatic staff and their families are our top priority. The Government of Canada continues to investigate the potential causes of unusual health symptoms reported by some of our diplomatic staff and their dependents in Havana, Cuba.

Canada currently has 15 medically confirmed cases. No additional confirmed medical cases have been reported since January 2019. Collaboration with Cuban authorities to identify the cause is ongoing. Despite much examination, a cause remains unknown.

As a preventive measure Global Affairs Canada designated the Embassy of Canada in Havana as an "unaccompanied post", effective April 16, 2018; all dependents of Canadian diplomatic staff from Cuba have been repatriated.

This decision reflects the priority the government places on the health and safety of employees and their families.

There is no evidence to suggest that Canadian travelers to Cuba are at risk. Canada has a positive and constructive relationship with Cuba and has received close collaboration from Cuban authorities.

Releasable background:

The Government of Canada continues to investigate the potential causes of unusual health symptoms reported by some Canadian diplomatic staff and dependents posted to Havana, Cuba.

There is a government-wide effort to address this situation, including an ongoing investigation in cooperation with Cuban authorities and our U.S. counterparts.

All Canadian diplomats and their families who reported unusual symptoms have received medical testing and medical monitoring in Canada as required.

In April 2019 Global Affairs Canada received information from Canadian medical specialists from Dalhousie University, involved in the evaluation of affected Canadians. A definite cause remains unknown and additional research is ongoing.

Global Affairs Canada has changed the designation of our Embassy of Canada to Cuba to an 'unaccompanied post', effective April 16, 2018, and has repatriated all dependents of Canadian diplomatic staff as a preventive measure.

In November 2019 and March 2018, the Department received the results of environmental assessments of diplomatic staff quarters in Havana. This assessment did not indicate anything that could point to a cause.

At the same time, we have reviewed all of our diplomatic positions in Cuba, with a view to balance our duty of care to our staff members, with the ongoing need to deliver services to Canadians in Cuba, and to promote and protect Canadian interests there.

Global Affairs Canada maintains a strict security and health protocol to respond immediately to any unusual events or health symptoms affecting Canadian diplomats posted to Cuba.

Hot issues: U.S. – North Atlantic Trade Organization (NATO) relationship

Last modified: 2019-12-05

Issue:

Canada's relationship with the U.S. following the NATO Leaders Meeting on December 3 to 4 in London, U.K.

Responsive lines:

The U.S. is Canada's most important ally. Our bilateral relations are strong, underpinned by our history, people-to-people ties, interwoven economies and shared values.

The NATO Leaders Meeting sent a strong message of NATO unity through an agreed political declaration and agreement on several new initiatives. Allies also reaffirmed their commitment to Article 5 and to the Alliance's shared values.

NATO remains central to Trans-Atlantic defence, and essential to international security and the rules-based international order.

Canada takes its commitments to NATO seriously. We have contributed to every major NATO operation (currently leading in Latvia, Iraq, NATO maritime group).

Our sizable 70% increase in defence spending does not yet include future investments that we will make.

Releasable background:

At the NATO Leaders Meeting in London on December 3 to 4, Leaders came together to reaffirm NATO's core principles, including Allies' commitment to Article 5 and to the Alliance's shared values.

Canada is steadfast in its commitment to NATO and to Trans-Atlantic security. We are increasing our defence spending by 70% over ten years (2016 to 2026) and increasing our spending on equipment. Projected spending for 2024 to 2025 stands at 1.48% of GDP (1.31% for 2019 to 2020). Our defence spending levels do not yet include future investments that we will make.

Canada has contributed to every major NATO operation. We are currently leading NATO's enhanced Forward Presence battle group in Latvia; commanding NATO Mission Iraq for a second year; providing the flagship of the Standing NATO Maritime Group Two; and periodically deploying of CF-18 fighter aircraft to patrol European skies.

Canada's bilateral relations with the U.S. are strong. The U.S. is Canada's most important Ally. The Canada-US defence partnership is integral to continental security and the breadth and depth of our relationship provides both countries with greater security than could be achieved individually.

Hot issues: Canada's vote on Palestinian self-determination

Last modified: 2019-11-29

Issue:

Canada's position regarding our change in vote at the UN from “No” to “Yes” on the resolution titled “The right of the Palestinian people to self-determination.”

Responsive lines:

Canada will always be a steadfast ally and friend of Israel and a friend of the Palestinian people.

Canada is strongly committed to the goal of a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in the Middle East, including the creation of a Palestinian state living side-by-side in peace and security with Israel.

Canada voted in support of this resolution as it addresses the core issue of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Canada strongly supports the international consensus on a two-state solution, so that both sides can have a secure and prosperous future.

Canada has strongly reiterated our stated position and concern that there are too many resolutions related to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict at the UN. This is a situation which unfairly singles out Israel for criticism.

Canada has voted against the vast majority of these yearly Israel-related votes.

Releasable background:

On November 19, 2019, Canada changed its vote from “No” to “Yes” on a resolution titled “The Right of the Palestinian people to self-determination” at the UN General Assembly. The resolution was adopted by a vote of 165Y-5N-9A. The only states to vote “No” were the US, Israel, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, and Vanuatu. The resolution was co-sponsored by 129 countries including likeminded (European Union (EU), New Zealand, Switzerland, and Norway).

The resolution reaffirms the right of the Palestinian people to self-determination, including the right to an independent Palestinian state. As such, Canada voted in support of this resolution as it addresses the core issue of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, namely the right of both peoples to determine their own future. Canada strongly supports the international consensus on a two-state solution, so that both sides can have a secure and prosperous future.

Although we voted “Yes” on this single resolution, Canada maintains its position at the UN that there are too many resolutions related to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, a situation which unfairly singles out Israel for criticism. We have thus maintained voting records on all other resolutions.

United Nations Resolutions on the Middle East

Every year, resolutions addressing the Arab-Israeli conflict are tabled at the UN. Canada assesses each resolution on its merits and consistency with our principles. We support resolutions that are consistent with Canadian policy on the Middle East, are rooted in international law, reflect current dynamics, contribute to the goal of a negotiated two-state solution to the Arab-Israeli conflict, and address fairly and constructively the obligations and responsibilities of all parties to the conflict. Canada advocates a fair-minded approach and rejects one-sided resolutions and any politicization of the issues. Canada believes that the United Nations and its member states have a responsibility to contribute constructively to efforts to resolve the Israeli-Arab conflict. Canada will continue to examine carefully each of these resolutions as they come forward.

Hot issues: United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA)

Last modified: 2019-12-04

Issue:

The Government has received both support and criticism regarding the provision of funding to UNRWA.

Responsive lines:

Canada is committed to helping vulnerable Palestinians, including Palestinian refugees who UNRWA is mandated to serve. Ensuring that UNRWA has sufficient and predictable resources is important for meeting the needs of refugees and for regional stability.

Canada exercises enhanced due diligence for all international assistance funding for Palestinians, including funding for UNRWA. This includes ongoing oversight, regular site visits, a systematic screening process, and strong anti-terrorism provisions in funding agreements.

We are monitoring UNRWA very closely. Our continued engagement with UNRWA allows us to insist on accountability and to ensure greater transparency and neutrality.

Releasable background:

UNRWA faces financial constraints and operates in a volatile environment. Since 1948, it has been mandated to provide basic services (including health, education, humanitarian assistance) to Palestinian refugees in five areas: West Bank, Gaza, Lebanon, Syria and Jordan. UNRWA is the only UN organization mandated to provide assistance to over five million Palestinian refugees living in these five areas.

UNRWA is almost entirely funded through voluntary contributions and receives broad international support. For the past several years, UNRWA has faced a significant funding shortfall partly as a result of growing needs and falling contributions. UNRWA's Programme Budget (education, health and social services) and the Emergency Appeal for humanitarian assistance to the West Bank and Gaza are currently facing deficits and cuts to services. Some services have already been scaled back, and without significant additional resources, more may need to be cut, leading to negative humanitarian consequences.

Canada's commitment to UNRWA since 2016 totals $110 million. Canada has committed $20 million per year (2016 through 2019) to UNRWA's Programme Budget to support basic education, health and social services to Palestinian refugees. Canada has also committed $5 million per year (2016 through 2019) for UNRWA's Emergency Appeal for the Syria regional crisis. Canada provided $10 million to the West Bank/Gaza Emergency Appeal in 2018 as an exceptional and one-time response to the Agency's unprecedented funding crisis.

Canada has disbursed all planned funding to UNRWA for 2019.

Hot issues: Canada's official development assistance and poverty reduction

Last modified: 2019-11-29

Issue:

Does Canada's official development assistance (ODA) focus on poverty reduction?

Responsive lines:

Canada's Feminist International Assistance Policy seeks to eradicate poverty and build a more peaceful, more inclusive, and more prosperous world.

In line with Canada's Feminist International Assistance Policy, Canada's official development assistance (ODA) focuses on helping the world's poorest and most vulnerable people.

In fact, under the Official Development Assistance Accountability Act, Canada's ODA must: contribute to poverty reduction, take into account the perspectives of the poor, and be consistent with international human rights standards.

Releasable background:

Canada disbursed $5.37 billion in official development assistance (ODA) in 2017 to 2018. This includes spending by multiple federal departments and agencies.

The Official Development Assistance Accountability Act (ODAAA/the Act) came into force on June 28, 2008 and was amended by the Budget Implementation Act 2018, No. 2. It outlines key principles and reporting requirements for Canada's ODA reported to Parliament, and applies to all federal entities.

As per section 4(1) of the Act, to be reported to Parliament as ODA, the competent Minister must be of the opinion that Canada's international assistance (IA): contributes to poverty reduction; takes into account the perspectives of the poor; and, is consistent with international human rights standards.

Canada's ODA represents the vast majority of Canada's IA, which is mainly delivered by Global Affairs Canada to support development, humanitarian, and international security mandates. The balance is provided via other federal entities including: Finance Canada, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, the International Development Research Centre, and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.

Hot issues: Canada's sanctions regime

Last modified: 2019-12-05

Issue:

Autonomous sanctions are an important complement to Canada's policy tools for maintaining and restoring international peace and security and promoting respect for human rights

Responsive lines:

Sanctions complement Canada's comprehensive suite of foreign policy tools, which includes engagement, dialogue, and capacity building.

Canada is judicious when it chooses to deploy sanctions and is committed to their effective and coordinated use, when appropriate.

Canada remains committed to playing a leadership role in the preservation and strengthening of an international rules-based order - sanctions are a component of this approach.

The Government is continuing to review Canada's sanctions regime with a view to facilitating transparency and greater awareness among stakeholders.

Releasable background:

Justice for Victims of Corrupt Foreign Officials Act (JVCFOA) allows Canada to target foreign nationals responsible for or complicit in gross violations of internationally-recognized human rights or acts of significant corruption. There are 70 individuals listed under the JVCFOA, including nationals from Venezuela, South Sudan, Myanmar, Russia, and Saudi Arabia. Canadians are prohibited from dealing with listed individuals, effectively freezing their Canadian assets, and these individuals are inadmissible to Canada under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act.

Special Economic Measures Act (SEMA) allows Canada to impose sanctions, through regulations, against a foreign state, and individuals and entities related to that foreign state. Canada may impose sanctions under SEMA, either, when there has been a grave breach of international peace and security resulting in a serious international crisis, when an international organization calls on its members to impose sanctions, in cases of gross and systematic violations of human rights, or in cases of significant corruption.

SEMA sanctions may include a dealings ban for a list of targeted individuals and/or entities, restrictions on trade, financial transactions or other economic activity. Canada uses humanitarian exemptions to mitigate unintended consequences and potentially adverse effects on vulnerable groups, such as women and girls. To maximize sanctions effectiveness, Canada seeks to coordinate sanctions with other countries (e.g., U.S, EU). There are SEMA sanctions on 11 countries: Iran, Libya, Myanmar, Nicaragua, DPRK, Russia, South Sudan, Syria, Ukraine, Venezuela, and Zimbabwe.

When the UN Security Council determines an act of aggression or threat to or breach of the peace has occurred, it may decide what measures member states shall take to restore or maintain international peace and security. Canada enacts regulations under the United Nations Act to implement these decisions. There are 13 countries subject to UN sanctions.

Budget 2018 announced $19.5 million to strengthen Canada's sanctions regime. Global Affairs Canada is moving forward with implementation by establishing a division for policy development, coordination, regulatory work, and engagement with stakeholders.

Hot issues: The U.S. trade action against certain Canadian softwood lumber products

Last modified: 2019-11-29

Issue:

Trade remedy proceedings and negotiations regarding certain Canadian softwood lumber (SWL) product

Responsive lines:

Canada is disappointed that the U.S. Department of Commerce (Commerce) continues to apply anti-dumping (AD) and countervailing (CVD) duties on certain SWL products from Canada.

U.S. duties on Canadian SWL are unjustified and cause harm to communities that depend on forestry. In the past, U.S. claims have always been found to be without basis. Canada believes this to once again be the case.

Canada will continue to vigorously defend the interests of its SWL industry, including through litigation under Chapter 19 of North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and before the World Trade Organization (WTO).

Canada continues to believe that an agreement that brings stability to the SWL industry is in the best interests of both countries.

Releasable background:

The U.S. is by far Canada's largest SWL export destination (almost 78% of exports in 2018). The top exporting province to the U.S. is BC, followed by QC.

The 2006 Canada-U.S. Softwood Lumber Agreement expired on October 12, 2015. Commerce initiated AD and CVD investigations into certain SWL products from Canada on December 15, 2016.

On January 3, 2018, the final duty orders were published in the U.S. Federal Register, at which time final duties took effect.

Company

Combined duty rates

Canfor

20.52%

Resolute FP

17.90%

Tolko

22.07%

West Fraser

23.56%

J.D. Irving

9.38%

All Others

20.23

SWL products certified as having been produced from logs in NL, NS, or PEI are excluded from the scope of the AD and CVD orders.

Under NAFTA Ch. 19, Canada is challenging Commerce's final CVD and AD determinations and the International Trade Commission's (ITC) final injury determination. On September 4, 2019, the Panel for Canada's injury challenge found that several key issues that are central to the ITC determination of material injury were not based on substantial evidence, and inconsistent with U.S. law. This decision does not immediately put an end to the punitive U.S. duties as the ITC must issue a revised determination, but it is an important step in the right direction. Canada and the U.S. continue to be engaged in discussions regarding panel composition for the CVD and AD cases.

Canada also launched two challenges at the WTO regarding Commerce's final AD and CVD determinations. The Panel's Report on Canada's AD challenge was released on April 9, 2019. The Panel agreed with Canada that the U.S. improperly calculated dumping margins. However, the report also contains findings unfavorable to Canada on the application of the U.S. Differential Pricing Methodology, and the use of zeroing. On June 4, 2019, Canada appealed the Panel's findings on those issues. The panel report in the WTO CVD case is expected in mid-2020.

To support workers and communities, in Budget 2019 Canada allocated an additional $251.3 million over three years to certain programs that were funded by the $867 million Softwood Lumber Action Plan in June 2017.

Hot issues: Canada's approach to responsible business conduct abroad

Last modified: 2019-12-08

Issue:

Canada’s approach to responsible business conduct (RBC) for Canadian companies active abroad.

Responsive lines:

Canada is committed to Responsible Business Conduct. Responsible business conduct abroad should be seen as a competitive advantage for Canadian business.

By integrating responsible business practices into their operations, Canadian companies active abroad can mitigate risks, innovate, and strengthen their brand.

The Government of Canada expects Canadian companies active abroad to respect human rights, operate lawfully and conduct their activities in a responsible manner consistent with international standards such as the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises and the UN Guiding Principles for Business and Human Rights.

The Government of Canada is committed to promoting best practices, preventing and identifying problems before they escalate, and to offer effective dispute resolution to find solutions.

The first Canadian Ombudsperson for Responsible Enterprise was appointed in April 2019. Her mandate includes reviewing allegations of human rights abuses arising from Canadian company operations abroad in the mining, oil and gas and garment sectors, promoting the implementation of internationally endorsed guidelines and advising Canadian companies on their RBC practices and policies.

The Ombudsperson’s mandate complements the existing National Contact Point for the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises, a voluntary, non-judicial grievance mechanism established in 2000 to facilitate dialogue between parties, for all sectors and for a wide range of issues including disclosure, labour issues, human rights, environmental issues and bribery.

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Corporate Social Responsibility Strategy for the extractive sector abroad. In the coming year, the Government of Canada will engage stakeholders in the development of renewed strategy.

Releasable background:

Canada’s approach to responsible business conduct (RBC) reinforces Canadian leadership and best practices by promoting and advancing RBC guidelines; supporting RBC initiatives and training abroad, fostering networks and local partnerships; strengthening the environment that supports RBC and assisting project-affected stakeholders and Canadian companies with early detection and intervention, and dispute resolution.

In January 2018, the Government of Canada announced the creation of a Canadian Ombudsperson for Responsible Enterprise and a multi-stakeholder Advisory Body on RBC (MSAB). Ms. Sheri Meyerhoffer was appointed on April 8, 2019, following an open, transparent and merit based selection process. Ms. Meyerhoffer began working on May 1st, 2019.

The CORE is mandated to: promote the implementation of the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights and the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises; advise Canadian companies on their policies and practices with respect to RBC; review allegations of human rights abuses arising from the operations of a Canadian company abroad in the mining, oil and gas and garment sectors; offer informal mediation services; and, provide advice to the Minister on any matter relating to her mandate. The CORE has the ability to receive complaints, undertake a review at her own initiative, conduct joint and independent fact-finding; make recommendations; follow-up on those recommendations; and, report publicly throughout the process.

Canada’s National Contact Point (NCP), a tool within the CSR Strategy, is mandated to promote the OECD Guidelines and offers facilitated dialogue and mediation for all sectors and for a wide range of issues, including: disclosure; labour issues; human rights; environmental issues; and bribery. Established in 2000 as part of Canada’s commitment to the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises, the non-judicial, voluntary dispute resolution mechanism is 7-department committee and has three stakeholders from the private sector and labour communities, to advise on its procedures and promotion of the OECD Guidelines.

If a company does not collaborate in good faith with Canada’s dispute resolution mechanisms, the NCP or the Ombudsperson may recommend denial/withdrawal of trade advocacy and future Export Development Canada financial support.

Hot issues: Canada's WTO Reform Initiative

Last modified: 2019-12-03

Issue:

What is the status of Canada's initiative on World Trade Organization (WTO) reform?

Responsive lines:

Canada is committed to safeguarding the multilateral trading system, including an enforceable, two-tier dispute settlement system, and is at the forefront in providing leadership on the urgent need to reform the WTO.

Trade creates wealth, jobs and prosperity, and WTO rules provide the necessary certainty that businesses require.

We have convened a group, known as the "Ottawa Group", of diverse like-minded countries to identify tangible ways to strengthen and modernize the WTO.

Momentum is building. For example, steps are being taken in areas such as e-commerce. Canada is also leading on efforts to innovate WTO processes to improve its day-to-day functioning.

Releasable background:

Canada is taking a leadership role in efforts to improve the functioning of the WTO. All three main functions of the WTO are under stress: (i) the monitoring of existing commitments is not providing needed transparency; (ii) with the continued block by the U.S. on new appointments to the Appellate Body, the two-stage dispute settlement system struggles to cope with demand; and (iii) limited progress on longstanding negotiations that seek to reflect modern economic realities. These issues are underpinned by the rise of new actors (e.g. China and other developing countries), as well as growing protectionism that puts the multilateral trading system at risk.

The impasse over the WTO's Appellate Body (AB) is coming to a head. The U.S. has long expressed concerns about the functioning of the AB, and in past years they have blocked the process to name new members to the AB. If the impasse is not resolved by December 11, 2019 the AB will no longer have enough members to hear cases, and the body will cease to function. Given that a losing WTO member can appeal a panel decision to the AB, a dispute could fall into the void if there is an appeal to a non-functioning AB. This impasse runs counter to the interests of many other WTO members (including Canada), and would be a serious blow to the rules-based trading system.

In October 2018, Canada hosted a ministerial meeting of a small group in Ottawa on WTO reform. This group of 13 WTO members (the "Ottawa group"), is diverse in geographical representation and levels of development. While the group has been kept small to allow for a meaningful exchange of views, it is meant to begin a broader discussion involving all WTO members. The joint communiqué that resulted from the Ottawa ministerial identified concrete actions for the group to pursue in three areas: 1) improvements to the efficiency and effectiveness of the WTO's monitoring and transparency function; 2) safeguarding the WTO's dispute settlement system; and 3) updating the WTO agreements to reflect 21st century realities. Ottawa Group (OG) Ministers have met three times (October 2018, January 2019, May 2019).

Hot issues: Physical security at missions abroad (duty of care)

Last modified: 2019-12-05

Issue:

Global Affairs Canada continues to undertake necessary physical security measures to protect Canadian diplomats and missions abroad, including in order to discharge its Duty of Care obligations.

Responsive lines:

Global Affairs Canada operates in a complex risk environment with ever-changing threats.

The government is committed to ensuring the safety and security of our employees and their families across our global network of missions.

In 2017, our government committed $1.8 billion to improve the safety and security of our people abroad, through enhanced intelligence gathering, security training and more resilient infrastructure.

Security infrastructure and practices in our missions abroad are continuously reviewed through rigorous risk assessment analyses to ensure that appropriate physical and operational security measures and safeguards are in place.

Expenditures made against "Duty of Care" Treasury Board funding will continue to be governed by the Department's Global Security Framework to ensure appropriate investment oversight, prioritization and performance measurement.

Releasable background:

The Government of Canada has a legal obligation to ensure the safety and security of its employees, their dependents, and locally engaged staff (LES) living and working in these environments.

Global Affairs Canada (GAC) manages Canada's overseas mission network including security operations supporting departments, agencies, crown corporations, and provincial representatives housed within our Diplomatic missions. The environment in which Global Affairs operates abroad is complex, dynamic, and often dangerous, including security threats in what had previously been considered benign locations. It can change suddenly and significantly, as a result of natural disasters, political instability, terrorism/extremism, armed conflict, espionage, cyber-attacks, health crises, and criminality.

GAC continuously monitors the threat environment at its missions overseas and initiates appropriate mitigation measures to protect its people, assets and information.

In October 2017, the government accorded GAC funding to improve the safety and security of personnel living and working at Canadian missions abroad. This funding will help to ensure that our network of people and missions abroad can do their work in safety and security through a number of security initiatives. These initiatives include, but are not limited to, minor physical security projects and seismic upgrades, high secure zones, mission security teams, protecting our people in Kabul, rapid response deployment and local guards, training, security equipment and systems, threat analysis and security officers, and security information management systems.

The Audit General's report on Physical Security at Missions (released November 2018) drew attention to shortcomings in GAC's project management practices and internal coordination with respect to physical security. An independent review of project management practices was subsequently undertaken and its findings are being addressed; similarly, changes have been made to GAC's decision-making processes respecting physical security, to ensure better internal coordination.

Hot issues: Canada's first Ambassador for Women, Peace and Security

Last modified: 2019-11-27

Issue:

Appointment of Canada's first Ambassador for Women, Peace and Security (WPS)

Responsive lines:

The appointment of Jacqueline O'Neill as Canada's first WPS Ambassador demonstrates the Government of Canada's commitment to the WPS agenda and brings a greater level of ambition to deliver on its National Action Plan on Women Peace and Security.

Originally from Edmonton, Alberta, Ms. O'Neill is a world leader in this field. Previously, she spent 15 years in civil society promoting WPS. She is a champion for gender equality in Canada and internationally.

The Ambassador will be supported with a standalone office. The office will be funded through existing resources from Global Affairs Canada. The cost for the office annually will be approximately $1.5 million.

The Ambassador and her team will complement and help encourage greater excellence and coordination in the work across the Government of Canada on implementing the Action Plan.

The WPS ambassador will engage and consult with relevant stakeholders, make recommendations to Action Plan ministers, and represent the Minister of Foreign Affairs in domestic and international activities on matters related to her mandate.

Releasable background:

The Government of Canada launched its second National Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security for 2017 to 2022 in November 2017, and tabled its first annual progress report in September 2018. Federal Action Plan partners are: Global Affairs Canada, National Defence, the RCMP, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), Public Safety Canada, the Department for Women and Gender Equality, the Department of Justice Canada, and, since 2018, Crown Indigenous Relations and North Affairs Canada (CIRNAC) and Indigenous Services Canada (ISC). CIRNAC and ISC are developing an implementation plan to address discrimination and violence faced by Indigenous women and girls in Canada. To further its global leadership, Canada has launched, for example: the Elsie Initiative for Women in Peace Operations, the G7 WPS Partnerships Initiative, the Women's Voice and Leadership initiative, and the Equality Fund. Canada will co-chair with Uruguay the global WPS Focal Points Network in 2020, the 20th anniversary of UNSCR 1325. The capacity of federal partners to implement the Action Plan have increased through the creation of senior level WPS Champions at Global Affairs Canada, National Defence and the RCMP, and a new Advisory Group co-chaired with civil society. While civil society has praised Canada's accomplishments since the launch of the Action Plan, it has also advocated for Action Plan partners to do more, including through the appointment of a high-level WPS “champion”. In December 2018, Parliament adopted Private Members' Business motion M-163, which calls on the government to appoint a WPS Ambassador. The Ambassador's mandate includes; advise the Ministers of Foreign Affairs and of National Defence ; as directed by the Ministers of Foreign Affairs, provide recommendations to other Action Plan Ministers; consult with relevant stakeholders; encourage excellence among those advancing the Action Plan; and represent the Minister of Foreign Affairs in national and international activities. Similar positions globally include the UK's Special Envoy for Gender Equality, Sweden's Ambassador for Gender Equality, and the NATO Secretary General's Special Representative for WPS.

Hot issues: Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) - General

  • Canada, the United States and Mexico have agreed to amend certain elements of the new NAFTA to make it more progressive and inclusive, to improve the overall functioning of the Agreement and to facilitate ratification in all three countries.
  • These changes will improve enforceability, worker and environmental protections, and access to medicines. The changes will also further strengthen the automotive rules of origin related to steel.
  • The changes are good for Canada and good for Canadians.
  • The Government of Canada is committed to working with the United States and Mexico towards the timely ratification and implementation of the Agreement, and to supporting Mexico’s efforts to implement its historic labour reforms.

Responsive: enforcement

  • The NAFTA parties have updated provisions to strengthen the effectiveness of the state-to-state dispute settlement process.
  • Importantly, these changes will ensure that disagreements between the Parties with respect to how the Agreement is to be implemented can be resolved efficiently and effectively.

Responsive: labour

  • Updates to the labour chapter were made to strengthen the obligations and provide greater protections for workers.
  • Importantly, Canada and Mexico have also agreed on an enhanced enforcement mechanism for labour, specifically with respect to the right to freedom of association and collective bargaining.
  • This mechanism will complement Canada`s ongoing efforts to support Mexican labour reform.

Responsive: environment

  • Changes to the environment chapter will strengthen obligations and enhance enforcement.
  • A new commitment has been added that requires parties to implement their existing commitments under specific multilateral environmental agreements (MEAs).

Responsive: intellectual property

  • The changes on intellectual property clarify that Parties continue to meet certain patent and pharmaceutical IP commitments in their domestic regimes, and that they retain flexibility under CUSMA to pursue domestic policy priorities in these areas.
  • Most notably, Parties have agreed to remove the requirement to provide 10 years of data protection for biologics, meaning that Canada will no longer be required under CUSMA to make changes to its domestic regime in this area.

Responsive: autos rules of origin

  • The changes to the automotive rules of origin will require automakers to purchase steel from North American producers in order for their vehicles to qualify as originating.
  • Canada is a major producer of steel and this amendment is consistent with Canada’s objective of incentivizing the use of Canadian materials in the production of vehicles.

Responsive: aluminum

  • Canada sought to include a parallel provision for aluminium, but trilateral support was not achieved on this point.
  • Canadian aluminium producers successfully compete in global markets and we anticipate that they will continue to be preferred suppliers to the automobile industry.

Responsive: if asked about Mexican labour reform

  • Effective implementation of the Agreement’s labour obligations is very important for Canada.
  • We are particularly focussed on supporting Mexico’s labour reform efforts and are strongly committed to ongoing engagement on this issue.

Background:

The Parties signed a new protocol of amendment in Mexico City on December 10. Similar to the original Agreement signed on November 30, 2019, the amending protocol will be subject to a detailed verification following signature, with the intention of ensuring accuracy, clarity and consistency among the English, French and Spanish texts.

Status of Domestic Processes

Canada
  • In order to advance Canada’s domestic process, implementing legislation needs to be introduced in Parliament.
  • Prior to taking legislative action to implement the Agreement, the amending protocol would need to be tabled in Parliament in line with the Policy on the Tabling Treaties in Parliament.
United States
  • The U.S. administration is expected to submit implementing legislation to Congress as soon as possible after signature. Once implementing legislation is submitted, trade promotion authority (TPA) provides for expedited consideration in Congress with a simple majority ‘up or down’ vote. While a maximum of 90 days is provided for Congressional consideration, the process can be completed quickly when political wills align.
Mexico
  • In Mexico, the original Agreement was approved by the Senate on June 19, 2019. Given the modifications to the Agreement, it is expected that Mexico may need to revisit certain aspects of its domestic process, including a vote by the Senate.
  • Until the new Agreement enters into force, the current NAFTA remains in force.

Negotiating Process

  • Negotiations started in August 2017. Seven formal negotiating rounds were held before discussions transitioned into continuous intersessional engagement in April 2018 and May 2018.
  • On June 1, 2018, the U.S. imposed Section 232 tariffs on Canadian and Mexican steel and aluminum.
  • Mexico and the U.S. met bilaterally over the course of the July and August ostensibly to advance discussions on bilateral issues, including autos rules of origin. On August 27, the U.S. and Mexico announced a “preliminary United States–Mexico Trade Agreement”.
  • On August 31, President Trump formally notified Congress of his intent to enter into an agreement with Mexico “and with Canada-if it is willing”
  • From August 28, 2018 to September 30, 2018, there were intensive negotiations between Canada and the U.S. On September 30, 2018, Minister Freeland and USTR Lighthizer announced that a deal had been reached on a modernized NAFTA.
  • On November 30, Canada, the United States and Mexico signed the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) in Buenos Aires, on the margins of the G20 Leaders’ Summit.

Telephone number: 613-952-4916

Hot issues: Consular cases - China - Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor

Last modified: 2019-12-05

Issue:

Mr. Michael Kovrig and Mr. Michael Spavor were arbitrarily detained on December 10, 2018 and formally arrested on May 6, 2019 on national security grounds.

Responsive lines:

The Government of Canada is aware that the cases of Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor have entered a new stage of the Chinese judicial process.

Canada is deeply concerned by the arbitrary detention and arrest by Chinese authorities of two Canadians - Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor - and we call for their immediate release.

We continue to raise these cases with Chinese authorities at the highest levels.

Canadian consular officials continue to provide consular services to Mr. Kovrig and Mr. Spavor, as well as to their families.

Due to provisions of the Privacy Act, no further information can be disclosed.

Releasable background:

Redacted

Hot issues: Meng Wanzhou

Last modified: 2019-12-05

Issue:

Extradition process for Ms. Meng Wanzhou, in accordance with Canada-U.S. Extradition Treaty.

Responsive lines:

Canada is a country governed by the rule of law. Ms. Meng was fairly treated during her arrest in December 2018 and afforded consular access and due process under Canada's legal system.

There was no political interference in the arrest of Ms. Meng Wanzhou, nor in the decision to issue an Authority to Proceed.

Ms. Meng is represented by experienced counsel and will be given every opportunity to raise any issue that she or her counsel believes to be relevant throughout the legal proceedings.

Canada respects its international legal commitments, including by honouring its extradition treaty with the United States. The rule of law is fundamental to all free societies; we will defend and uphold this principle.

Releasable background:

On December 1, 2018, Ms. Meng Wanzhou, Chief Financial Officer of Chinese telecommunications company Huawei, was arrested in Vancouver in accordance with the Canada-US Extradition Treaty.

Meng Wanzhou was detained at Vancouver Airport in the early evening of Saturday, December 1.

Chinese authorities received consular access to Ms. Meng (i.e. met with Ms. Meng) at 9 p.m. on December 1, within hours of Ms. Meng's arrest.

On Saturday December 1, the Chinese Ambassador to Canada contacted GAC to discuss the arrest. GAC and the Ambassador had brief scheduling exchanges and agreed to meet to discuss the arrest on Monday, December 3, which did take place.

There was no political motivation for the arrest: Canada is following the rule of law and complying with its international legal obligations.

From the day of her arrest Ms. Meng has had full access to Chinese consular assistance as well as her lawyers.

December 1, 2019 marked the one-year anniversary of the arrest of Ms. Meng.

As per the court schedule, Ms. Meng's extradition hearing is scheduled for January 20, 2020.

Hot issues: Uyghurs in China

Last modified: 2019-12-02

Issue:

Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities in China's Xinjiang province face serious restrictions on their rights and freedoms with credible reports that large numbers are being detained.

Responsive lines:

We are deeply concerned by the credible reports of the mass detention, repressive surveillance, and family separation affecting Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities in Xinjiang, under the pretext of countering extremism.

China's lack of transparency about what is happening is troubling. China's actions are counter to its international human rights obligations, as well as the UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy.

Canada urges Chinese authorities to release Uyghurs and other Muslims who have been detained arbitrarily based on their ethnicity and religion.

Canada, along with several other countries, has called on the Chinese government to allow the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights and UN Special Procedures immediate unfettered, meaningful access to Xinjiang.

We continue to raise the human rights situation in China, including the persecution of Uyghurs, at every possible opportunity.

Releasable background:

The Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (Xinjiang) is China's largest province, sharing borders with eight countries, including Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Mongolia. Xinjiang has a population of almost 24 million people, including 11 million Uyghurs, who typically practice Islam. The Chinese government's objectives in Xinjiang are to maintain social and economic stability, and to develop the region economically. Clashes between Uyghurs and the government have culminated in riots in 2009, and a series of deadly attacks in 2013 and 2014. While some events appear to have been terrorist attacks, others, which were characterized by Chinese authorities as terrorism, were actually low-level conflicts between local communities and authorities. Credible reports suggest that Chinese authorities are detaining as many as one million or more people in Xinjiang because of their ethnicity or religion under the pretext of countering extremism. Recent reporting confirms government policy promoting a systematic crackdown endorsed at high levels. In detention, they face obligatory patriotic and cultural education, with reports of torture or other ill-treatment and family separation. Uyghurs and other Muslims in Xinjiang face deeply repressive security and mass surveillance practices, including the mass collection of biometric data, coercive police actions, and severe restrictions on movement. These activities systematically deny and threaten to destroy the cultural, linguistic, ethno-religious traditions and identities of Uyghurs and other Muslims, as the August 2018, report of the UN Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (CERD) concluded. Family members of Canadian citizens have disappeared due to this crackdown. Canada has updated its travel advisory on Xinjiang in July 2019. Canada remains deeply concerned by the human rights situation in Xinjiang and has raised this issue both publicly and privately, bilaterally and multilaterally. Canada has made several statements in UN forums. For example, Canada recently co-signed a joint statement with 22 countries on the human rights situation in Xinjiang during the Third Committee dialogue of the CERD in New York, in October 2019.

Hot issues: Canada's market access to China for canola seed and beef / pork products

Last modified: 2019-12-05

Issue:

Chinese restrictions on imports of Canadian canola seed and meat products

Responsive lines:

Restoring full market access for Canadian canola seed to China is a top priority for the Government of Canada.

On October 28, 2019, Canada met with China for consultation on the canola issue at the World Trade Organization.

We continue to hold technical discussions with officials, and are reviewing the additional information provided by China during consultations before determining next steps

We will continue to engage with agricultural stakeholders through the Government established Working Group on Canola, which meets regularly.

On November 5, 2019, China re-opened its border to Canadian beef and pork. Canada is committed to working closely with industry and provinces to maintain and expand beef access to China.

Releasable background:

Canola

In March 2019, China suspended canola seed shipments from two major Canadian exporters, Richardson and Viterra, and increased inspection of all Canadian canola seed exports to China, citing alleged discovery of pests. Canada's canola seed exports to China have since fallen by 69%. As part of Canada's response, the Government created a working group comprised of industry and officials from Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC), the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), GAC, the governments of Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba to discuss opinions for regaining market access and market diversification which continues to meet fortnightly.

On September 9, 2019, Canada requested formal consultations at the WTO; these consultations took place on October 28, 2019. Canada is assessing information provided by China at the consultations to determine next steps.

Canada beef and pork export to China

On June 25, 2019, China Customs (GACC) requested that the CFIA to suspend the issuance of pork and beef certificates following the discovery of a falsified certificate claiming Canadian origin a pork shipment of unknown origin. As a result of CFIA follow up action, GACC confirmed on November 5, 2019, that CFIA could resume issuing export certificates for exports of compliant pork and beef products to China from all eligible establishments, thus resolving the issue.

Hot issues: Political unrest in Hong Kong

Last modified: 2019-12-05

Issue:

Large-scale protests erupted in Hong Kong in response to changes proposed by the HK authorities to its extradition laws that would have allowed extradition to China

Responsive lines:

Canada urges all sides involved in the current crisis to exercise restraint, to refrain from violence and to engage in peaceful and inclusive dialogue.

Canada supports the right of peaceful protest and Hong Kong's high degree of autonomy and freedoms under the Basic Law and the “One Country, Two Systems” framework.

Canada has a vested interest in Hong Kong's stability and prosperity - the foundation of which is Hong Kong's relative autonomy and basic freedoms.

Canada will continue to closely monitor the situation in Hong Kong, and to provide consular services to Canadians as required.

Canada congratulates the people of Hong Kong, who turned out in high numbers to cast their votes in the peaceful District Council elections.

We hope that the elections will set a path towards political dialogue and reconciliation.

Releasable background:

Large-scale protests erupted this spring in Hong Kong in response to changes proposed by the Hong Kong authorities to the Special Administrative Region's (SAR) extradition laws that would have allowed case-by-case extradition to all jurisdictions, including mainland China. Despite the announcement that the extradition bill was suspended on June 15, and fully withdrawn on October 23, protests have continued with broader demands and increasingly violent clashes between a minority of protesters and security forces.

Anxiety over the loss of Hong Kong's autonomy and its basic freedoms and lack of trust in Beijing has sustained the movement.

The District Council elections were held peacefully on November 24. As of November 25, a record 71.2% of registered voters were said to have cast a ballot (2.94 million), electing more than 300 pan-democrats candidates (vs. 105 in 2015) and approximately 60 pro-Beijing candidates (vs. 298 in 2015). Pan-democrats also secured a majority of seats in 17 of 18 districts, after winning none in 2015.

The political unrest in Hong Kong has generated intense attention from the international community, including statements and comments from major political figures in the US, the UK, the EU, France and Germany.

There are major concerns among like-minded countries regarding a potential intervention by mainland China's security forces, and continued erosion of Hong Kong's autonomy, freedoms and rule of law.

As of November 22, Canada has issued 3 statements on the current unrest in Hong Kong: on May 30 in a joint statement with the UK, on June 12 in a standalone statement and on August 17 in a joint statement with the EU.

Hot issues: Canada-India relations

Last modified: 2019-11-29

Issue:

Canada-India Bilateral Relations

Responsive lines:

India and Canada have deep and historic people-to-people links. Indo-Canadians represent roughly 5.6% of Canada's population (1.9 million people), make up an important part of Canadian society and play a significant role in Canadian culture, business and politics.

Two-way merchandise trade between Canada and India amounted to $9.4 billion in 2018. India was Canada's 9th largest destination for merchandise exports in 2018.

That same year, the number of Indians studying in Canada's universities, colleges and schools reached over 172,000 making India Canada's number one source country for students. Also, almost 300,000 Indian tourists visited Canada, making India our tenth-largest tourist market.

Beyond increasing trade and economic linkages, Canada-India bilateral priorities include cooperation on security issues; promoting engagement in science, technology and education; collaboration on environment and climate change; and women's empowerment.

Releasable background:

Canada and India have bilateral relations built upon people-to-people ties and shared traditions of democracy and pluralism. India is the world's fastest growing large economy. Canada's priorities in India include cooperation on security, and exploring opportunities to expand bilateral engagement in areas related to investment, education, environment and innovation. India is an important source country for Canada in terms of immigration and students.

Two-way merchandise trade between Canada and India amounted to $9.4 billion in 2018, up from $8.4 billion the year prior. Canadian merchandise exports to India totalled $4.2*9 billion, while merchandise imports from India were $5.13 billion. India was Canada's 9th largest destination for merchandise exports in 2018.

Canada and India launched negotiations towards a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement in November 2010. Negotiations are complex and outstanding issues will take time to resolve. Canada commenced Foreign Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement negotiations with India in 2004, and the latest round of negotiations took place in November 2017.

During his February 2018 trip to India, Prime Minister Trudeau announced $1 billion in two-way trade and investment deals that will lead to the creation of more than 5,800 Canadian jobs. The two Prime Ministers also confirmed the signature of six wide-ranging MOUs.

India is one of the world's largest pulse import market and, until September 2017, had been Canada's largest pulse export market. India's fumigation requirements, increased tariffs and quantitative restrictions have hindered access for Canadian pulse exports. This has been further exacerbated by India's most recent actions of rejecting containers of Canadian lentils over the detection of weed seeds that do not appear on India's quarantine weed seed list. Canada is working with India to address the situation, and press India to complete their evaluation of Canada's systems approach as soon as possible.

Hot issues: Canada's humanitarian response in Bangladesh and Myanmar

Last modified: 2019-11-27

Issue:

Violence and insecurity in Myanmar has resulted in significant humanitarian needs in both Myanmar and neighbouring Bangladesh, where more than 671,000 Rohingya have sought refuge since August 2017

Responsive lines:

Canada remains deeply concerned by the ongoing violence in Myanmar and its impact on neighbouring Bangladesh. Since 2017, Canada has provided $109.21 million dollars in humanitarian assistance in Bangladesh and Myanmar.

Canada is currently the 5th largest single-country humanitarian donor in Bangladesh in 2019.

Canada's gender-responsive humanitarian programming is supporting life-saving interventions for vulnerable people affected by the crisis with a focus on meeting the specific needs and priorities of women and girls, including sexual and reproductive health and rights.

Canada's support also addresses the protection needs of children and adolescents.

This includes access to safe spaces for boys and girls, psychosocial support and case management for at risk children and adolescents and life skills training for Rohingya women and adolescents.

Releasable background:

Canada is extremely concerned about the violence in Myanmar and the influx of over 745,000 Rohingya women, men, girls and boys from Myanmar into Bangladesh since August 25, 2017.

The speed and scale of the influx has resulted in significant humanitarian needs in Cox's Bazar. Difficult conditions in the camps and settlements are exacerbated by the current monsoon season, with more than 80,000 refugees living in zones prone to flooding and landslides.

The humanitarian situation in Rakhine is also dire with much of the remaining population-including the Rohingya community-devastated by the ongoing conflict and security situation and unable to access essential food, medication and other basic commodities.

Canada is supporting multisectoral programming for crisis-affected populations with a strong focus on meeting the specific needs and priorities of women and girls, including through sexual and reproductive health and rights, gender-based-violence related programming and psychosocial assistance.

On May 23, 2018, Canada released a strategy to respond to the Rohingya crisis that dedicates $300 million over three years for the humanitarian response, as well as for addressing development, peace and stabilization needs.

Since 2017, Canada has provided $109.21 million in humanitarian assistance (announced) in Bangladesh and Myanmar to assist crisis-affected populations, including the Rohingya and the communities that host them.

Hot issues: Canada's international assistance in Burkina Faso

Last modified: 2019-11-28

Issue:

Burkina Faso is an important recipient of Canadian international assistance. Our aid continues to achieve results and has a positive impact on the lives of Burkinabès.

Responsive lines:

In 2017 to 2018, Canada provided more than $63 million in international assistance to Burkina Faso, with a focus on basic education and sexual and reproductive health and rights.

In less than 10 years, Canada's support for basic education has helped increase primary school completion rate for girls by 25%.

In 2019, Canada responded to rising humanitarian needs in Burkina Faso as a result of terrorist and criminal attacks on the civilian population.

We have provided food assistance, shelter and essential household items, as well as health and protection services via humanitarian partners. Canada will continue to monitor the evolving humanitarian situation and will continue to respond, as appropriate.

Releasable background:

Burkina Faso is still one of the poorest countries in the world: more than 40% of the population lives on less than US$1 a day. It ranks very low in human development and gender equality indices, and its fertility and maternal mortality rates remain very high. To meet its many socio-economic challenges, the government of Burkina Faso launched the National Plan for Social and Economic Development 2016 to 2020 (NPSED).

Since the beginning of 2019, the humanitarian crisis in Burkina Faso has worsened as a result of the increase of terrorist and criminal attacks on the civilian population and security forces. As of October 11, over 1.5 million people have been affected by the crisis and there were 486,360 internally displaced persons (IDPs) - a steep increase from around 80,000 in January 2019. Hundreds of thousands of affected people in roughly a third of the country (North and East) are struggling to access food, water or medical services; armed violence and insecurity have crippled health and education services, with more than 68 health centres and 1,845 schools forced to shut, affecting more than 800,000 people and 267,000 students respectively. Insecurity and the resulting humanitarian situation are expected to continue to deteriorate and the number of IDPs is expected to increase.

In 2017-18, Canadian international assistance to Burkina Faso totalled $63 million. Canada's development program is in line with its Feminist International Assistance Policy and supports the NPSED. Canada's development program is focused mainly on education, gender equality, sexual and reproductive health and rights, combatting sexual and gender-based violence, technical vocational training and agriculture.

To date in 2019, Canada has provided $1.6 million [unannounced] to respond to rapidly increasing humanitarian needs due to insecurity driven population displacements in the northern and eastern regions of Burkina Faso. Canada's humanitarian assistance helps provide food and nutrition assistance, shelter and non-food items, as well as health, protection and coordination services to vulnerable populations in Burkina Faso.

Hot issues: Syria crisis and peace talks

Last modified: 2019-11-29

Issue:

The Syrian conflict involves multiple armed groups and external backers. Ceasefires must be enforced and humanitarian access secured for a meaningful peace process to be possible.

Responsive lines:

UN-led intra-Syrian peace negotiations are the only path for a sustainable long-term solution to the conflict. We hope the Constitutional Committee's discussions will lead to mutually satisfactory results.

Canada strongly supports the inclusion of women in negotiations. Their meaningful participation in decision-making is critical to the success of peace talks, and an eventual political settlement.

Canada is supporting the necessary tools to investigate war crimes and crimes against humanity in Syria and to hold responsible those found guilty of such crimes, including the use of chemical weapons.

Full, safe, and unhindered humanitarian access is vital to reach those most in need, throughout Syria.

Canada firmly condemns Turkey's military incursion into Syria. Turkey's unilateral action in northeastern Syria undermines regional stability, exacerbates the humanitarian situation and jeopardizes progress achieved in fighting Daesh.

Releasable background:

With the military and political support of Russia and Iran, the Assad regime holds a significant portion of core inhabited areas of Syria. Efforts to hold the Assad regime accountable are ongoing, despite Russia's vetoing thirteen Syria-related UNSC resolutions. The regime's continued disregard for international standards and norms, including its repeated use of chemical weapons, has been condemned internationally. The regime stands accused of more than 100 chemical incidents over the course of the war. In April 2018, Russia vetoed a US-led UNSC resolution seeking accountability for the use of chemical weapons in Syria, following an attack on the Damascus suburb of eastern Ghouta.

In April 2019, the regime launched Operation Idlib Dawn with Russia's support to reclaim territory in Idlib province, the last area remaining under opposition control. A ceasefire announced by Russia in August largely holds for now. However, resumption of hostilities in the near future is very likely.

Following commencement of US troop withdrawal from positions near the Syria-Turkey border, on 9 October Turkey launched Operation Peace Spring, a unilateral incursion into northeastern Syria aimed at pushing back Kurdish-led forces, which Turkey views as terrorists. The Turkish operation was quickly and widely condemned by Canada and most allies.

Talks between Turkey, Russia, Iran, and Syria (Astana process) are ongoing. In September 2019, the leaders of Turkey, Russia and Iran announced agreement on the composition of a 150-member constitutional committee, made up of equal numbers of government, opposition, and “independent” representatives. The UN-led Geneva process has largely been stalled owing to a lack of constructive engagement by the regime.

Canada has welcomed over 64,000 Syrian refugees since November 2015 and is providing up to $3.5 billion over five years (2016 to 2021) in military, security, stabilization, humanitarian and development assistance to the region in response to the Syrian and Iraqi crises. Canada is also supporting accountability efforts for Syria, including by funding evidence collection and documentation concerning atrocities and crimes against humanity.

Hot issues: Israel settlements

Last modified: 2019-12-05

Issue:

On November 18, 2019 United States Secretary of State Mike Pompeo announced that US does not consider Israeli settlements in the West Bank to be “per se inconsistent with international law.”

Responsive lines:

Canada remains committed to the goal of a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in the Middle East, including the creation of a Palestinian state living side by side in peace and security with Israel.

Canada does not recognize permanent Israeli control over territories occupied in 1967, including the West Bank.

We agree with the UN Security Council that these settlements are a serious obstacle to achieving a just, lasting and comprehensive peace.

Canada's longstanding stated position remains unchanged: Canada considers Israeli settlements to be a violation of the Fourth Geneva Convention.

Releasable background:

Canada does not recognize permanent Israeli control over territories occupied in 1967 (the Golan Heights, the West Bank, East Jerusalem and the Gaza Strip). The Fourth Geneva Convention applies in the territories occupied since 1967 and establishes Israel's obligations as an occupying power. As referred to in UN Security Council Resolutions 446 and 465, Israeli settlements in these territories have no legal validity and are in violation of the Fourth Geneva Convention. The settlements also constitute a serious obstacle to achieving a comprehensive, just and lasting peace.

On November 18, 2019 United States Secretary of State Mike Pompeo announced that "the establishment of Israeli civilian settlements in the West Bank is not per se inconsistent with international law," a departure from a 1978 State Department legal opinion, and something Pompeo characterized as a reversal of the Obama Administration's position. He added that it is for the Israeli court system to determine the legality of individual settlements. While Israeli courts do rule on their legality under Israeli law, they do not consider the Fourth Geneva Convention to be applicable in these territories, and as such do not make determinations regarding international law.

The announcement fits squarely into the present US Administration's approach of unilaterally overturning past long-held policy positions on core issues related to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict (e.g. on Jerusalem and the Golan Heights).

Following the US announcement, the EU reiterated its position that Israeli settlements are illegal under international law, as did both Norway and Ireland.

Hot issues: Canada's position re: U.S. Policy on Jerusalem

Last modified: 2019-11-28

Issue:

The US' decision to recognize Jerusalem as Israel's capital broke with the international consensus that the city's status should be negotiated directly between Israelis and Palestinians.

Responsive lines:

Canada is a steadfast ally of and friend of Israel and friend to the Palestinian people.

Canada's longstanding position is that the status of Jerusalem can be resolved only as part of a general settlement of the Palestinian Israeli dispute.

We continue to support the building of conditions necessary for the parties to find a peaceful solution to the conflict.

As the Prime Minister has clearly stated, Canada will not be moving its embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem.

[On December 2017 Jerusalem vote at the UN] While Canada does not support unilateral actions, we were disappointed that the Jerusalem resolution at the United Nations was one sided and did not advance prospects for peace to which we aspire, which is why we abstained on the vote.

Releasable background:

The future status of Jerusalem, including the Old City, is one of the most contentious issues in the Israeli Palestinian conflict. Israel considers Jerusalem to be its "eternal, undivided capital", while the Palestinians seek a capital of a future Palestinian state in East Jerusalem.

In December 2017, President Trump announced that the United States formally recognizes Jerusalem as Israel's capital and began the process of moving the U.S. embassy there from Tel Aviv. In response to the US decision, a December 2017 UN Security Council resolution on Jerusalem was vetoed by the U.S., which was the first time they had used their veto in six years. A subsequent UN General Assembly resolution on the status of Jerusalem was adopted by a recorded vote of 128Y 9N 35A. Canada abstained on this vote. The United States officially opened an interim embassy at the current site of a U.S. consular annex in West Jerusalem in May 2018. In March 2019, the existing US consulate-general was formally integrated into the new U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem, with the consulate-general's responsibilities being redefined as a Palestinian Affairs Unit.

Israel has long sought foreign embassies to be located in Jerusalem, but following the U.S. move only Guatemala relocated its embassy. However, Australia, the Czech Republic, Hungary, and Brazil have opened defence, trade and cultural offices in Jerusalem. EU Member States are bound by the EU's common foreign policy approach to this subject which, like Canada, calls for a negotiated agreement to the status of Jerusalem.

As the international consensus on Jerusalem is weakening, Israel is continuing the expansion of settlements and challenging the status quo at the Old City's holy sites, raising tensions between the city's Jewish and Arab residents.

Hot issues: Violence In Gaza

Last modified: 2019-11-26

Issue:

Violence in Gaza occurred November 12-14, 2019 following an Israeli airstrike that killed a Palestinian Islamic Jihad commander. In response, approximately 500 rockets were launched into Israel by PIJ.

Responsive lines:

Canada unequivocally condemns the rocket attacks on Israel by Palestinian Islamic Jihad, which have targeted, killed and injured civilians.

The protection of civilians is absolutely necessary. Israelis and Palestinians have the right to live in peace, with dignity, and free from violence.

Canada has called for calm and supports the continued efforts led by the United Nations and Egypt to de-escalate the situation in Gaza. We are carefully monitoring the situation and remain hopeful that calm will prevail between Gaza and Israel.

Israel has the right to take the necessary measures to protect the security of its citizens against attacks from terrorist groups, in accordance with international humanitarian and human rights law.

We are concerned by the ongoing violence in the Gaza Strip and saddened by the loss of life.

Releasable background:

Palestinians in Gaza face high levels of acute vulnerability in the context of a protracted crisis. Recurrent violence, restrictions on the movement of people and goods, limited economic growth, poor governance, and poverty have eroded Gazans' resilience. Approximately 82 percent of the population require some form of humanitarian assistance. Unemployment rates are among the highest in the world, the majority of the population is food insecure, 96 percent of the groundwater in Gaza is unfit for human consumption and electricity is available only a few hours a day.

Against this backdrop, protests began in March 2018 as part of the "Great March of Return". The resulting clashes have led to more than 250 Palestinians being killed and over 23,600 injured.

While the protests have since diminished in intensity, violence between groups in Gaza and Israel continues.

The most recent escalation of violence occurred from November 12 to 14 2019, following an Israeli airstrike that killed a senior Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) commander and his wife. In response, approximately 500 rockets were launched into Israel by PIJ, a listed terrorist organization in Canada, and Red Alert sirens were activated across Israel and in Tel Aviv. This was the first time since the 2014 war between Israel and Hamas that schools and workplaces were closed.

Israel's counterstrikes on targets in Gaza resulted in 34 deaths in Gaza, including of 3 women and 8 children, and in 111 injuries.

An Egyptian-brokered ceasefire went into effect on November 14, but the situation remains volatile and could escalate again.

Like-minded governments and senior representatives of the United Nations issued communications condemning the rocket fire from Gaza into Israel and calling for de-escalation. On November 13, Global Affairs Canada tweeted: "Canada strongly condemns the unacceptable firing of rockets at civilians in #Israel. Immediate de-escalation is necessary. We fully support the efforts of Egypt and the UN in this regard."

Hot issues: Iran's nuclear and ballistic missile programs

Last modified: 2019-12-02

Issue:

Canada has serious concerns over Iran's nuclear ambitions given its history of nuclear proliferation but believes the nuclear deal (JCPOA) can constrain Iran's nuclear program.

Responsive lines:

Canada supports an effective rules-based international order and believes that the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), when fully implemented, is essential to prevent Iran from developing a nuclear weapons capability.

While imperfect, the JCPOA has helped to curb a real threat to international peace and security. Canada is concerned about Iran's recent actions, and has urged Iran to respect its JCPOA commitments and fully cooperate with the International Atomic Energy Agency.

Canada regrets the US decision to withdraw from the JCPOA, which subjects Iran's nuclear program to a rigorous and unprecedented international verification regime by the International Atomic Energy Agency.

Canada condemns Iran's ballistic missile program and launches, which are destabilizing for the region. Canada maintains sanctions related to Iran's nuclear and ballistic missile programs.

We will continue to work closely with our allies and partners to hold Iran to account for its nuclear program, its ballistic missile program, and its destabilizing regional activities.

Releasable background:

In 2015, the UNSC members and Germany reached agreement with Iran on the JCPOA, effective January 2016. In return for significant sanctions relief by the EU, US and UN, Iran accepted long term restrictions on its nuclear program, and extensive verification by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), commitments that constrain Iran's ability to produce a nuclear weapon.

The US considers Iran the greatest threat to regional security, given Iran's nuclear and ballistic missiles programs and its regional activities. On May 8, 2018, President Trump announced the US withdrawal from JCPOA, citing Iran's continued maligned behaviour and flaws in the deal and has since re-imposed unilateral sanctions. In reaction to the US policy, Iran has incrementally stopped meeting most of its commitments under the JCPOA. The EU, France, Germany and the UK are seeking to preserve the JCPOA, which they see as vital for European national security. While the contrast between the US and European approaches has caused tension in transatlantic relations, the gap between them is shrinking due to Iranian actions in the region, including its attack on Saudi oil facilities on September 14, 2019, and its decisions to stop meeting most of its commitments under the JCPOA.

The IAEA has confirmed that Iran has stopped meeting most of its commitments under the JCPOA, and has reported on Iran's increased level of uranium enrichment and heavy water stockpiles, as well as increased deployment of new centrifuges. Since 2014, Canada has been the lead contributor to the IAEA's increasingly vital JCPOA monitoring and verification in Iran, having contributed C$15M, including C$2M in October 2019.

MISSILES: UNSC Resolution 2231 endorsed and provided an implementation framework for the JCPOA, including placing restrictions on the transfer of goods or technologies that could assist Iran's ballistic missile program until 2023. Iran periodically tests ballistic missiles, and Canada and like-minded remain concerned about these tests; Iran claims its missiles are for conventional payloads, however, some of its missiles would also be capable of delivering a nuclear warhead.

ATIP protected background: [REDACTED]

Hot issues: Canada's humanitarian response in Yemen

Last modified: 2019-12-03

Issue:

How is Canada responding to the humanitarian crisis in Yemen?

Responsive lines:

Canada is deeply concerned by the ongoing conflict in Yemen and its humanitarian impact on civilians, particularly women and children, who continue to bear the brunt of the fighting.

Since the start of the conflict in 2015, Canada has provided over $180 million in humanitarian funding to support food assistance, clean water and sanitation, shelter, protection and health care, including sexual and reproductive health services.

For example, in 2018, Canada's support helped partners provide reproductive health services to more than 360,000 Yemeni women and girls.

Releasable background:

After four years of continuous conflict, Yemen is currently the world's largest humanitarian crisis. In 2014, prior to the conflict 14.7 million people required assistance versus 24.1 million people in need of humanitarian assistance in 2019. Nearly 70% of the population (20.1 million people) is food insecure, with almost 10 million people on the brink of famine.

Yemen is also afflicted by one of the largest cholera outbreaks ever recorded with over 760,000 suspected cases since the beginning of 2019. Basic service provision in Yemen is collapsing and the state of water, sanitation and hygiene infrastructure and health services is dire. Attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure, including hospitals, water and sanitation facilities, and markets, are frequent, in clear violation of international humanitarian law. Ongoing violence displaced over 380,000 people so far in 2019, for a total of 3.6 million people displaced since the beginning of the conflict in 2015. In addition to security risks due to hostilities, humanitarian organizations face significant bureaucratic constraints to the effective delivery and monitoring of assistance.

To date in 2019, Canada provided $48.8 million in humanitarian funding to UN agencies, the Red Cross Movement and non-governmental organizations. This funding is helping provide food assistance, clean water and sanitation, shelter, protection and health care, including sexual and reproductive health services.

Through its 2019 support to multilateral organizations such as World Food Program, United Nations Population Fund and UNICEF, Canada helps provide emergency food assistance to up to 12 million conflict-affected people in Yemen, increase the availability of sexual and reproductive health and rights services for up to 1.8 million women and girls, and provide micronutrient interventions to up to 4,281,000 undernourished children under 5 years.

Canada is also supporting humanitarian partners in Yemen through its contributions to the UN Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF). On January 11, 2019, the Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs approved a CERF allocation of $32 million to enable the scale-up of the life-saving humanitarian response in Yemen.

Hot issues: Venezuela's political and economic crisis

Last modified: 2019-11-22

Issue:

Venezuela's political, economic and humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate.

Responsive lines:

Canada is deeply concerned about the worsening political, economic and humanitarian crisis in Venezuela, which is a direct threat to the peace and security of the Americas.

Canada remains committed to supporting Interim President Guaidó and the National Assembly in their efforts to achieve a peaceful democratic transition through free and fair elections in Venezuela.

We are deeply troubled by the suffering of the Venezuelan people at the hands of the Maduro regime as highlighted by the human rights violations outlined in the UN Human Rights Commission report.

Canada will continue to work with our international partners, in particular through the Lima Group, to find a peaceful resolution to the crisis in Venezuela.

Canada announced almost $53 million in 2019 in stabilization, humanitarian and development response to support those most affected by the Venezuela crisis.

Releasable background:

Venezuela's ongoing political, humanitarian and economic crisis is worsening- now a global concern with destabilizing effects on the region. The security situation is dire with the state involved in illegal activities, including drug and people trafficking, illegal mining, corruption, and cross-border smuggling. As of November 2019, 4.6 million Venezuelans have fled the country, which has put significant pressure on neighbouring countries, notably Colombia, Peru, Ecuador and Chile. Venezuelans face widespread shortages of food, medicine and staple goods, prompting malnutrition, rising infant mortality and incidence of disease. Venezuela has the world's largest oil reserves; but due to gross mismanagement, years of underinvestment and corruption, production has collapsed. The IMF estimates that GDP has halved since 2013, hyperinflation is projected at 500,000 percent in 2020 and unemployment will reach 50.5% by 2020. To date, 58 countries recognize Juan Guaidó as Interim President of Venezuela. On November 16, Guaidó announced a series of protests across the country over the course of coming weeks in an attempt to regain momentum. Mass protests between January and April 2019 did not prove effective, and turnouts for subsequent protests steadily declined. Despite the world's increased expectations for change earlier this year, Maduro remains entrenched. Military and security forces remain loyal to Maduro and the regime has criminalized opposing political views, arresting and harassing opposition political figures. Russia, China, Cuba, Turkey, and Iran, continue to offer financial, commercial, security, and political support to the Maduro regime. Canada supports a peaceful democratic transition in Venezuela. Canada plays a leadership role in the Lima Group and in raising international awareness of the situation through international outreach. Canada has also engaged Cuba, encouraging it to play a constructive role in Venezuela. In 2019 alone, Canada committed almost $53 million in stabilization, humanitarian and development response to support those affected by the Venezuela crisis. Since 2017, Canada has imposed four rounds of targeted sanctions on 113 Venezuelans.

Hot issues: Brexit (General)

Last modified: 2019-12-04

Issue:

The upcoming departure of the U.K. from the European Union and its implications for Canada-U.K. relations.

Responsive lines:

Both the U.K. and the EU are important strategic partners for Canada with whom we enjoy deep historical ties and common values. It is in Canada's national interest to continue to build relations with both parties.

Canada encourages the U.K. and EU to agree on a path forward as soon as possible in order to minimize uncertainty.

Releasable background:

The 2016 referendum on EU membership, where the Leave side won by a narrow 52-48 margin, shocked the U.K. political system and resulted in PM Cameron's resignation and his replacement by PM May following a selection process in the governing Conservative Party.

The process for leaving the European Union is outlined in Article 50 of the 2007 Treaty on European Union, which provides for a two-year negotiating window on the terms of withdrawal, followed by automatic withdrawal after two years if no agreement is reached and there is no unanimous consent to extend this process. After Parliament passed the necessary legislation, PM May provided Article 50 notification on March 29, 2017. Since then, there have been three extensions to the Article 50 period, and Brexit is now slated to take place on January 31, 2020. The inability for PM May to deliver Brexit ultimately led to her resignation as PM and subsequent replacement by Boris Johnson.

The current Withdrawal Agreement negotiated between the U.K. and the EU includes a transition period that would last until December 31, 2020 and would see the U.K. still bound by the EU acquis but without any voice on making those rules. As well, the U.K. would still be bound by obligations stemming from international agreements concluded by the EU until the end of the transition, though the U.K. would be free to negotiate, sign, and ratify new international agreements in areas of EU jurisdiction, provided that those agreements do not enter into force until after the transition period. The terms of the transition deal are still subject to formal approval by the U.K. and the EU.

The Withdrawal Agreement has not yet been formally approved by the UK and EU Parliaments. The likelihood of UK parliamentary approval will be in large part influenced by the results of the UK election on December 12, 2019.

ATIP protected background: [REDACTED]

Hot issues: Russia/Ukraine

(including Operation UNIFIER)

Last modified: 2019-11-22

Issue:

Canada's response to the crisis in Ukraine

Responsive lines:

Canada continues to condemn Russia's illegal annexation and occupation of Crimea as well as its ongoing support to the insurgency in eastern Ukraine.

Canada welcomes recent diplomatic efforts, including through the Normandy Format and developments which serve as a step towards ending the conflict in the Donbas.

Through coordinated sanctions action with the EU and U.S., Canada and the international community have sent a clear message that we will not stand by while Russia violates international law and continues to destabilize Ukraine.

Since January 2014, Canada has committed more than $785 million in multifaceted support to Ukraine, encompassing a broad range of financial, development, stabilization and security, non-lethal military and humanitarian assistance.

Canada engages with Russia to express our values and advance our interests; Canada's position on the unacceptability of Russia's illegal annexation of Crimea and ongoing support to the insurgency in eastern Ukraine will not change.

Releasable background:

Following the Revolution of Dignity in early 2014, Ukraine's government committed to implementing democratic and economic reforms in line with its Euro-Atlantic aspirations. Russian aggression, which started in 2014 with the illegal invasion and occupation of Crimea, has drawn Ukraine into a bloody conflict in the east of the country.

In response to Russia's illegal annexation of Crimea, ongoing support to the separatist insurgency in eastern Ukraine and aggressive actions in the Black Sea, in coordination with partners and allies, Canada has imposed a broad range of sanctions against more than 430 Russian and Ukrainian individuals and entities. Canada expects Russia to fulfill its Minsk obligations and believes that sanctions are tied to the full implementation of the Minsk agreements and respect of Ukraine's sovereignty.

Since the start of the crisis, Canada has committed more than $785 million in multifaceted assistance to Ukraine, including $400 million in concessional loans to help Ukraine stabilize its economy, $277 million in bilateral development assistance projects, $84.8 million for projects in support of peace and stabilization programming in Ukraine, and over $37 million in humanitarian assistance.

Canada supports diplomatic efforts that serve towards ending the conflict. Recent developments include a prisoner exchange between Ukraine and Russia, the agreement on the Steinmeier formula, some disengagement on the frontlines in eastern Ukraine, and Russia's return of three Ukrainian vessels it seized in November 2018. Since these developments, it has been announced that France will be hosting the next Normandy Four summit, involving leaders from Ukraine, Russia, Germany and France, which will take place December 9, 2019 in Paris.

Russian Passportization

On April 24, 2019 just days after the presidential elections, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree simplifying the procedure to acquire Russian citizenship for residents of the so-called Donetsk and Luhansk "People's Republics". Canada announced that it would take action to ensure these Russian passports could not be used to travel to Canada.

Hot issues: Consular – China – Huseyincan Celil

  • Mr. Celil's case is important to the Government of Canada.
  • We continue to raise his case with Chinese authorities at every appropriate opportunity.
  • We continue to call upon the Chinese government to give Canadian officials consular access in order to determine Mr. Celil's wellbeing.
  • Due to provisions of the
  • We are also deeply concerned by the credible reports of the mass detention of Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities in Xinjiang, under the pretext of countering extremism.

Background

  • Mr. Huseyincan Celil was born in Xinjiang, China and is a member of the Uyghur ethnic group. He became Canadian in 2005. He was arrested in Uzbekistan in March 2006.
  • Uzbek authorities extradited Mr. Celil to China in June 2006. In April 2007, he was sentenced to indefinite life imprisonment. In February 2016, his sentence had been commuted to nineteen years of imprisonment.
  • China does not recognize his Canadian citizenship and thus refuses to grant access.
  • In October 2017, a senior Chinese official made a statement to Canadian media that characterized Mr. Celil as a separatist rather than a terrorist. He further noted that Mr. Celil had realized his mistake and had since educated more than 200,000 people by sharing his own experience.
  • Mr. Celil's case has generated a high level of interest in Canada.

Hot issues: Arctic sovereignty - general

Last modified: 2019-12-06

Issue:

Canada's Arctic sovereignty

Responsive lines:

Canada's Arctic sovereignty is longstanding and well established. All waters of Canada's Arctic Archipelago, including the various waterways commonly known as the "Northwest Passage" (NWP) are internal waters of Canada by virtue of historic title.

Responsive: As internal waters, there are no rights of transit passage or innocent passage in the NWP.

Responsive: Existing boundary disputes with Denmark and the United States continue to be well managed and will be resolved in due course in accordance with international law.

Responsive: Canada welcomes navigation in its Arctic waters provided that ships comply with Canadian laws on safety, security and the protection of the environment.

Responsive: A Chinese research vessel, the Xue Long, requested Canadian consent to navigate Canada's Arctic waters in the summer of 2017. Canada, satisfied that the vessel would comply with all relevant legislation and regulations, consented.

Releasable background:

Questions occasionally arise in press articles about whether Canada is doing enough to assert our sovereignty in the Arctic. As activity in the region increases, concerns such as pollution, safety and security are often mischaracterized as threats to Canadian sovereignty.

No one disputes Canada's sovereignty over the lands of the Canadian Arctic Archipelago, covering in excess of 1.4 million square kilometres and containing more than 36,500 islands. The only exception is 1.3-square-kilometre Hans Island between Ellesmere Island and Greenland, which is claimed by Denmark. Canada has two maritime boundary disputes in the Arctic: one with the US regarding a portion of the Beaufort Sea (6,250 square nautical miles); and a second with Denmark regarding two small zones in the Lincoln Sea (totaling 65 square nautical miles). Each disagreement is well managed, and will be resolved peacefully and in due course in accordance with international law.

The disagreement over the waterways commonly referred to as the Northwest Passage is not about its ownership but rather concerns the extent of Canada's control over foreign navigation. All the waters within the Arctic archipelago are internal waters of Canada by virtue of historic title. For greater clarity, Canada drew straight baselines around its Arctic Islands in 1986. All waters landward of the baselines are internal waters and Canada has an unfettered right to regulate them as it would land.

The US, however, claims that a strait used for international navigation runs through the Northwest Passage, which would give all foreign ships a right of transit passage. In 1988, Canada and the United States entered into the "Arctic Cooperation Agreement" that ensures the US seeks Canada's consent prior to any voyage by a US icebreaker through the Canadian Arctic archipelago.

As a matter of policy, Canada permits international navigation in the Northwest Passage as long as conditions and controls established by Canada to protect safety, security, and the environment are met.

Hot issues: Global Affairs Canada – High level messages

Foreign affairs

  • Canada actively contributes to revitalising the rules-based international order, to eradicating poverty, to pursuing diversified, modern and inclusive trade, and to strengthening Canada’s place in North America.
  • There is no relationship more important than our relationship with the United States. We work together to keep our border, our people and our countries safe. Together we support peace and security, sustainable development and economic growth.
  • Canada has an important presence worldwide with 178 missions in 110 countries. These missions actively contribute to advancing Canadian priorities abroad, while also assisting Canadians. In 2018 alone, Canada received over 215 requests for consular support from its citizens.

International trade

  • Canada is diversifying its trading routes, with access to new global markets at the forefront of our trade diversification strategy.
  • Preferential market access means Canada can reach about 1.5 billion consumers through 14 FTAs with 51 countries, for a combined GDP of US$50 trillion.
  • We are levelling the playing field so Canadian SMEs can compete in succeed in global markets, taking advantage of free trade agreements and targeted programs.
  • Foreign direct investment is critical to Canada’s economy, spurs innovation, improves productivity and eases access to international markets.

International development

  • Canada’s feminist international assistance policy has helped position Canada as a global leader in promoting sustainable development through a gender-equality lens.
  • Since the launch of Canada’s Feminist International Assistance Policy, 99% of our international assistance and 93% of our humanitarian aid targets or integrates gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls.
  • Canada is committed supporting the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Working with its partners, Canada is striving to end poverty and equality, build more prosperous and peaceful societies and protect the planet.

Human rights

  • Human rights are a pillar of the rules-based international order, contributing to conflict prevention and sustainable development. They are at the core of Canada's international policies and engagement.
  • Canada is an active participant in international human rights institutions such as the UN General Assembly Third Committee and the Human Rights Council.
  • As you know, the international human system has been coming under increasing attack. Canada has therefore pursued a number of initiatives to bolster human rights and build consensus around strong international human rights standards.
  • To this end, Canada recently co-hosted a global conference for media freedom, led resolutions on Iran, child early and forced marriage, and violence against women. We have also updated our guidance on supporting human rights defenders where they work.
  • Canada has also championed the meaningful inclusion and enhanced participation of Indigenous peoples in multilateral organizations, launched a contact group on freedom of expression or belief, co-chaired the Equal Rights Coalition, and hosted a global conference on LGBTI rights.
  • Canada promotes human rights at the country level through dialogue, training, support to human rights defenders, monitoring, and accountability.
  • In Latin America, Canada has worked in the Lima Group and in the OAS to address the human rights violations in Venezuela and Nicaragua.
  • In the Middle East, Canada has led resolutions at the General Assembly condemning the human rights violations in Iran and Syria, and at the UN Human Rights Council for violations in Yemen.
  • In Asia, with by the PM's Special Envoy to Myanmar Bob Rae Canada has sought justice and accountability for crimes committed against the Rohingya. We have also raised concerns over the human rights situation in North
  • In Africa, Canada has engaged bilaterally, regionally and multilaterally on the rights of women and girls, children, LGBTI persons, refugees, and human rights defenders Korea and the fate of the Uighurs in China.
  • In Europe, Canada actively supports the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe's work human rights, including media freedom, and has spoken out against the persecution of LGBTI individuals in Chechnya.

Friday, December-06-19

Funding to help developing countries address the impact of climate change

Overview

  • Global Affairs Canada is requesting total funding of $296.0 million for 2019–2020 via Supplementary Estimates (A) to advance programming designed to help developing countries address the impacts of climate change.
  • This funding is included in the $2.65 billion announcement by the Prime Minster at the 2015 Paris Climate conference to support the developing countries.

Supplementary points

  • Proposed initiatives will be aligned with the Government of Canada priorities of addressing global climate change and implementing the 2015 Paris Agreement as well as the Feminist International Assistance Policy, which targets both Environment and Climate Action and gender equality and the empowerment of women.
  • The $2.65 billion climate finance pledge will help developing countries transition to low-carbon and climate resilient economies. From the pledge, Canada has announced over $1.5 billion in climate change financing and will deliver the full amount by March 2021.
  • Canada’s financial commitment supports:
    • initiatives that significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, in line with developing countries needs and plans;
    • adaptation action, particularly for the poorest and most vulnerable, including women and girls; and,
    • mobilizing new private sector capital for climate action in developing countries.
  • Funding is invested in sectors such as:
    • clean technology and renewable energy;
    • climate-smart agriculture, sustainable forestry;
    • watershed management; and,
    • climate resilience.
  • Canada collaborates with a range of bilateral and multilateral partners, including developing country governments, non-governmental organizations, multilateral organizations and dedicated climate funds and financial mechanisms, such as the Green Climate Fund and the Global Environment Facility.

Expected results

  • Projects will demonstrate Canadian leadership on climate action and the empowerment of women and girls as well as our commitment to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the accompanying Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
  • Proposals will seek to achieve results in areas such as clean technology, climate-smart agriculture, sustainable forestry, and climate-resilient infrastructure.

Background

  • In November 2015, in the lead up to the Paris Climate Conference, the Prime Minister announced Canada’s contribution to supporting the implementation of the Paris Agreement would be $2.65 billion in climate finance for developing countries in the five-year period to 2020–2021.
  • The $2.65 billion was allocated through two Memoranda to Cabinet. The first, Canada’s International Climate Change Negotiating Mandate: A New Approach (November 2015), set out Canada’s mandate for international climate financing and funding for several initial initiatives. The second, Canada’s International Approach for Implementing the Paris Agreement (October 2016), established the allocation for the remainder of the $2.65 billion.
  • Environment and climate action is a core action area of Canada’s Feminist International Assistance Policy. Consistent with the policy, Canada is pursuing gender-responsive climate action, which recognizes that environment and climate action is most effective when women and girls play an active role in designing and developing strategic responses to climate change and environmental issues.

Supporting facts and figures

Allocation by core responsibility:
Allocation by core responsibility: Contributions

3. Development, peace and security programming

296,000,000

Grand total

296,000,000

Allocation by standard object:
Objects of expenditure Total

01 – Personnel

n/a

02 – Transportation and communications

n/a

03 – Information

n/a

04 – Professional and special services

n/a

05 – Rentals

n/a

06 – Purchased repair and maintenance

n/a

07 – Utilities, materials and supplies

n/a

08 – Acquisition of land, buildings and works

n/a

09 – Acquisition of machinery and equipment

n/a

10 – Transfer payments

296,000,000

12 – Other subsidies and payments

n/a

Less: Revenues credited to the vote

n/a

Total

296,000,000

Questions and answers

What are some examples of specific initiatives and programs Global Affairs Canada has announced to date?

  • Since 2015, Canada has announced over $1.7 billion to specific initiatives and programs, including:
  • $300 million to the Green Climate Fund
    • The Green Climate Fund (GCF) is the largest dedicated international climate fund, helping developing countries to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to the impacts of climate change. The GCF is aiming to invest 50 per cent of its resources to support adaptation, with half of the adaptation funding going to the poorest and most vulnerable countries. Developed and developing countries have pledged more than US $10 billion to the GCF, including $300 million from Canada.
    • The GCF has provided funding to ambitious and transformational climate change projects around the world. For example, the GCF is supporting the KawiSafiVentures Fund to drive investment in off-grid solar in Kenya and Rwanda through small- and medium-sized enterprises. With support from the GCF, this project will help leverage private finance investments to address the lack of electricity and high kerosene dependence through affordable clean household solar energy solutions such as solar lanterns, solar home systems, and solar mini-grids.
  • $250 million to the Canada-International Finance Corporation (IFC) Blended Climate Finance Program
    • The Canada-IFC Blended Climate Finance Program involves a contribution of $250 million from the Government of Canada to mitigate risks deterring private investment in key areas such as resilient infrastructure, climate-smart agriculture, and renewable energy. This financing, when blended with IFC’s own investments, will mobilize private capital to help overcome the challenge of climate change.
    • The Canada-IFC Blended Climate Finance Program aims to mobilize private capital for global climate action and reflects Canada's commitment under the 2015 Paris Agreement to support developing countries in their transition to sustainable and resilient low-carbon economies.
  • $100 million for Climate Risk Insurance
    • This initiative will support the expansion of Climate Risk Insurance coverage in climate-vulnerable countries. It will aim to strengthen vulnerable countries’ ability to build back better and faster following natural disasters like hurricanes or floods.

Funding for the International Assistance Envelope Crisis Pool Quick Release Mechanism

Overview

  • Global Affairs Canada is seeking to reprofile $175.6 million via the Supplementary Estimates (A) to replenish the International Assistance Envelope Crisis Pool Quick Release Mechanism.
  • The purpose of the reprofile exercise is to replenish the International Assistance Envelope Crisis Pool in the current fiscal year (2019–2020) to allow the government greater flexibility in responding to international crises.

Supplementary points

  • Through the Crisis Pool, Global Affairs Canada provides funding in response to natural disasters (floods, earthquake, and hurricanes), humanitarian crises, conflicts, sudden intensification of lower-level crises, or other unforeseen crises
  • Among other things, Canada’s support helps to provide emergency food assistance, health care, water and sanitation, and shelter to some of the most vulnerable crisis-affected people in the world.
  • Global Affairs Canada uses the annual appeals from UN agencies, the Red Cross Movement, and Canadian and international non-governmental organizations (NGOs) as the basis for making funding recommendations in response to complex emergencies around the globe.
  • Crisis pool funds are separate from resources in other International Assistance Envelope pools including the International Humanitarian Assistance pool.

Expected results

  • This funding will be used to provide assistance in response to major international crises such as natural disasters, food crises, conflict, political upheaval, and sudden intensification of lower-level crises or other unforeseen events.
  • In 2019 to 2020 funding was provided to address the following crises:
    • Rohingya Refugee Crisis in Myanmar and Bangladesh;
    • urgent humanitarian, development and stabilization needs in Yemen; and,
    • humanitarian and development needs in Venezuela and the region.

Results

  • Crisis Pool funding will enable Canada to have greater flexibility in providing assistance in response to major international crises such as natural disasters, food crises, conflict, political upheaval, and sudden intensification of lower-level crises or other unforeseen events. In doing so, Canada can respond to crises without having to draw resources away from long-term sustainable development investments.
  • In 2018 to 2019, crisis funding was used to respond to crises around the world. For example:
    • In 2018, Yemen was the world’s largest humanitarian crisis. Canada’s support helped to deliver a multi-sectoral response that included food assistance, healthcare (including sexual and reproductive health services), water, sanitation and hygiene, nutrition support, protection, shelter, and logistical support.
    • In response to the Rohingya crisis, Canada continued to support gender-responsive programming for refugees and host communities.
    • Canadian funds provided for life-saving assistance and services in Venezuela and neighbouring countries, including for food, health care and water and sanitation to vulnerable and crisis-affected populations, including host communities.
  • This crisis funding was instrumental in helping to save lives, alleviate suffering, and maintain human dignity and security of vulnerable people.

Background

  • The International Assistance Envelope (IAE) is a dedicated pool of Canadian international development resources that are governed by a Management Framework that sets out the guiding principles for the use of IAE resources.
  • Within the IAE, the Crisis Pool is a set of resources available to respond to major international crises involving a multilateral response – such as natural disasters, extraordinary humanitarian and food crises, conflict, political upheaval, sudden intensification of a lower-level crisis or other unforeseen events.
  • The Crisis Pool allows for timely and appropriate Canadian responses without disrupting investments in existing long-term development, stabilization or other emergency responses. It also reduces the likelihood of impacting the Government of Canada’s fiscal planning in an ad-hoc manner.
  • Requests for Crisis Pool funds must meet specific eligibility and approval requirements.
  • The Quick Release Mechanism provides a streamlined way to request access to Crisis Pool resources without having to wait for funding through the supply cycle. This can increase the speed and allow for the flexibility required for Canada’s responses to crises.
  • Since December 2016, all Crisis Pool funds are now held in the Quick Release Mechanism in Global Affairs Canada’s reference levels.

Supporting facts and figures

Allocation by core responsibility:

Allocation by core responsibility:

Transfer payments

3. Development, peace and security programming

175,590,000

Grand total

175,590,000

Allocation by standard object:

Objects of expenditure

Total

01 – Personnel – EBP

n/a

01 – Personnel

n/a

02 – Transportation and communications

n/a

03 – Information

n/a

04 – Professional and special services

n/a

05 – Rentals

n/a

06 – Purchased repair and maintenance

n/a

07 – Utilities, materials and supplies

n/a

08 – Acquisition of land, buildings and works

n/a

09 – Acquisition of machinery and equipment

n/a

10 – Transfer payments

175,590,000

12 – Other subsidies and payments

n/a

Less: Revenues credited to the vote

n/a

Total

175,590,000

Questions and answers

Why were Crisis Pool funds not fully spent in 2018-19?

  • In 2018-19 Canada responded robustly to a number of crises around the world, including the conflict in Yemen, the migration crisis in Venezuela and the region and the Rohingya refugee crisis in Myanmar and Bangladesh.
  • Crisis programming is largely unpredictable and can vary from year to year. For this reason, there are measures in place to facilitate the consideration that unused funds be reprofiled into the following year’s Crisis Pool balances.

Funding to Implement the Feminist International Assistance Agenda

Overview

  • Global Affairs Canada is requesting funding of $56.9 million for 2019–2020 via Supplementary Estimates (A) to support the new Innovative Finance Programs.
  • Budget 2018 announced an increase of $1.5 billion for the creation of the International Assistance Innovation Program and the Sovereign Loans Program.

Supplementary points

  • In total, Global Affairs Canada is requesting $1.59 billion over five years (from 2019–2020 to 2023–2024) and $515.8 million ongoing to support the new Innovative Finance Programs.
  • The International Assistance Innovation Program and the Sovereign Loans Program are both five-year pilot programs. These funds will be divided as per the following:
    • International Assistance Innovation Program ($935.6 million) will give Global Affairs Canada greater flexibility for financing arrangements and partnerships, notably by enabling it to more effectively engage with, and mobilize the resources of, the private sector.
    • Sovereign Loans Program ($657.7 million) will enable Canada to provide sovereign loans to eligible recipients with concessional terms, thereby enhancing their capacity to make important investments in poverty reduction and peace and security, while recognizing their relative ability to pay for these investments.
  • Of the $56.9 million requested for 2019–2020 there is $3.2 million in operating (vote 1) funds, and $53.7 million in grants and contributions (vote 10) funds.
  • Global Affairs Canada requires the creation of a new liability vote to distribute funds under the Sovereign Loans Program and in order to make equity investments under the International Assistance Innovation Program as per its legislative and regulatory authorities.

Expected results

  • The International Assistance Innovation Program will give Global Affairs Canada greater flexibility in its programming by enabling it to better engage with, and mobilize the resources of, the public and private sectors in support of the Sustainable Development Goals by sharing real and/or perceived risks.
  • The Sovereign Loans Program will enable Canada to provide low interest rate sovereign loans to eligible recipients with concessional terms, thereby enhancing developing countries’ capacity to make important investments in poverty reduction and peace security, while recognizing their relative ability to pay.
  • These programs will help advance the goals of the Feminist International Assistance Policy, and enhance Canada’s commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The programs will support three principle objectives:
    • Market building for pro-poor investments;
    • Gender equality; and,
    • Mobilizing public and private finance for the poor.
  • The International Assistance Innovation Program and Sovereign Loans Program give the Government greater flexibility for financing arrangements and partnerships and ensure Canada remains at the leading edge of development financing. They complement Canada’s policy leadership in innovative financing for development.
  • Canada has expanded its development assistance toolkit to include conditional and unconditional repayable contributions, guarantees, equity, and sovereign loans in order to support the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
  • These programs complement existing resources for international development assistance, and the work of Canada’s Development Finance Institution (DFI), FinDev Canada.

Background

  • Through Budget 2018, the Government of Canada allocated $873.4 million over five years to Global Affairs Canada to manage the “International Assistance Innovation Program” and $626.6 million for the “Sovereign Loans Program”. It also pledged, “to introduce any necessary legislative measures to enable Global Affairs Canada to carry out these new programs”.
  • Following the Budget announcement and subsequent Memoranda to Cabinet, an additional $0.9 million was allocated, bringing the total to $1.59 billion.
  • Global Affairs Canada has the financial, policy, legislative and regulatory authorities to deliver the new programs. Passed in June 2019, the International Financial Assistance Act provides the legislative authority to issue guarantees, sovereign loans, and make equity investments. However, Global Affairs Canada still requires the creation of a new liability votes to distribute funds under the Sovereign Loans Program and in order to make equity investments under the International Assistance Innovation Program as per its legislative and regulatory authorities.

Supporting facts and figures

Allocation by core responsibility:

Allocation by core responsibility:

EBP

Salaries

Operating

Transfer payments

Total

3. Development, peace and security programming

275,236

1,376,176

1,129,168

53,700,000

56,480,580

6. Internal services

45,819

229,095

125,460

n/a

400,374

Grand total

321,055

1,605,271

1,254,628

53,700,000

56,880,954

Allocation by standard object:

Objects of expenditure

Total

01 – Personnel – EBP

321,055

01 – Personnel

1,605,271

02 – Transportation and communications

252,500

03 – Information

200,000

04 – Professional and special services

751,044

05 – Rentals

51,084

06 – Purchased repair and maintenance

0

07 – Utilities, materials and supplies

0

08 – Acquisition of land, buildings and works

0

09 – Acquisition of machinery and equipment

0

10 – Transfer payments

53,700,000

12 – Other subsidies and payments

n/a

Less: Revenues credited to the vote

n/a

Total

56,880,954

Questions and answers

How is International Assistance Innovation Program support different from traditional support (grants and contributions) offered by Global Affairs Canada?

  • Unlike traditional grants and contributions, investments made under the International Assistance Innovation Program and Sovereign Loans Program are expected to be repaid, with possible consideration of below market terms. It is through the use of this concessionality that the programs hope to mobilize additional public and private sector investment in development.

How will International Assistance Innovation Program initiatives be assessed?

  • All initiatives will be assessed for sustainable development impact, additionality, financial sustainability, and minimum concessionality.

Have the programs supported any projects to date?

  • The programs were officially launched in July 2019. Global Affairs Canada is now in the process of assessing its first tranche of concept note (preliminary applications) submissions to the International Assistance Innovation Program. At the same time, the department is establishing its priorities for the delivery of the Sovereign Loans Program. Note that the Sovereign Loans Program was not expected to disburse any funds until 2020–2021.

Funding for Canada's participation in Expo 2020 Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Overview

  • Global Affairs Canada is requesting funding of $21.3 million for 2019–2020 via Supplementary Estimates (A) to support Canada's participation in Expo 2020 Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
  • Budget 2019 announced an allocation of $40.0 million for Canada’s participation at the World Expo in 2020 in Dubai.

Supplementary points

  • In total, Global Affairs Canada will be requesting $39.4 million over three years (from 2019–2020 to 2021–2022).
  • The focus of our engagement will be on trade and will bring together trade missions from Provincial, Territorial and Municipal Governments, private industry, educational institutions and other stakeholders from across Canada.
  • In addition to the costs associated with awarded contracts to deliver the components of the participation listed above, there is a salary component for Global Affairs Canada’s Expo 2020 Dubai team as well as the cost of relocating that team to Dubai for the six-month operations phase of the Expo. This includes the operation of the Canada Pavilion and relocating the Pavilion hosting staff to Dubai.
  • It is anticipated that there will be 4 to 5 major procurements required and currently one has been awarded and 3 are under development or in the process of evaluation.
  • Work also includes collaboration with Public Services & Procurement Canada (PSPC) and the Canadian Commercial Corporation (CCC) supporting the team on delivery.
  • Global Affairs Canada is negotiating additional partnerships that will support the Complementary Program and currently we have agreements with Invest in Canada and the National Film Board to support and enhance Canada's participation at the Expo.
  • A substantial portion of the funding will be used for the design and construction of the Pavilion, the cultural program, the Hosting Staff Culinary, Cleaning, Recruitment and Catering Services Management, and other components for Canada's participation to ensure a successful delivery of all elements of Canada's participation at Expo 2020 Dubai.

Expected results

  • Through Canada’s participation at Expo 2020 Dubai, Global Affairs Canada expects to build, operate, and later decommission the Canada Pavilion safely, in time and on budget. A successful promotion of Canada’s interests through the Pavilion and thematic programming (public presentation, trade, business, cultural and public affairs programming) is expected to:
    • increase trade between Canada and the United Arab Emirates and Middle East and North Africa region;
    • increase investment from Middle East and North Africa region into Canada;
    • diversify international export markets;
    • attract foreign investment
    • promote tourism, education and immigration opportunities to further expand drawing talent to Canada and also sharing talent internationally,
    • increase appreciation of Canadian expertise in health, sustainability, agriculture, IT, space and aerospace, oceans and fisheries; and,
    • increase interest in post-secondary academic opportunities in Canada, establishing partnerships with Canadian universities, business and tourism in Canada.

Background

  • Expo 2020 is an exceptional venue to showcase Canada to the world, bringing together 192 countries, including all G20 countries, more than 20 international organizations, as well as corporate partners and sponsors.
  • The Expo will provide an opportunity for Canada to promote itself as a destination of choice for trade, investment, tourism, and culture to millions of international business and leisure visitors. Canada’s 2020 theme, “Canada: The Future in Mind”, will serve as a platform to showcase Canadian innovation, access global markets, as well as establish and build on existing business and cultural relationships, which can, in turn, open doors for Canadian companies of all sizes so they can compete and succeed in thriving markets worldwide.
  • Canada's participation at Expo 2020 includes a planning phase, an operational phase, and a close out phase.
  • The planning phase began on January 2019 when work to put a team together began and work was started to prepare a Treasury Board submission and to deliver on all commitments of Canada's participation at Expo 2020 Dubai
  • The operational phase will be in Dubai and will run from October 20, 2020 to April 10, 2021
  • The close out phase will begin on April 10, 2021 and finish December 2021 upon dismantling of the pavilion, completion of close out reports and lessons learned.
  • The overall work includes the design, construction and operation of the Canada Pavilion and the Public Presentation on the Expo site. It will feature a Public Presentation that will tell Canada's story to visitors of the Pavilion through a multimedia and digital platform. Canada's participation also involves a Complementary Program planned to take place in the Canada Pavilion and on the Expo site, which will feature a cultural program with planned events including a Canada Day at Expo.
  • These events will be supported by a Culinary Program that will featuring Canadian food products and Canadian Chef(s).

Supporting facts and figures

Allocation by core responsibility:

Allocation by core responsibility:

EBP

Salaries

Operating

Total

2. Trade and investment

237,320

878,965

18,412,316

19,528,601

6. Internal services

259,005

959,276

507,156

1,725,437

Grand total

496,325

1,838,241

18,919,472

21,254,038

Allocation by standard object:

Objects of expenditure

Total

01 – Personnel – EBP

496,325

01 – Personnel

1,838,241

02 – Transportation and communications

848,090

03 – Information

302,500

04 – Professional and special services

15,114,381

05 – Rentals

2,500

06 – Purchased repair and maintenance

0

07 – Utilities, materials and supplies

0

08 – Acquisition of land, buildings and works

0

09 – Acquisition of machinery and equipment

2,500

10 – Transfer payments

0

12 – Other subsidies and payments

2,649,501

Less: Revenues credited to the vote

n/a

Total

21,254,038

Funding to support Operation IMPACT through the Middle East Strategy (re-profile from 2018-19)

Overview

  • On behalf of the Department of National Defence, Global Affairs Canada is seeking access to $11.8 million that has been re-profiled via the 2019–2020 Supplementary Estimates (A) to support Operation IMPACT projects under the Middle East Strategy.
  • Overall, Global Affairs Canada sought to re-profile $15.7 million from 2018-19 to support Operation IMPACT, of which $11.8 million is re-profiled to 2019–2020 via the Supplementary Estimates (A) and $3.9 million will be re-profiled to 2020–2021 via the Main Estimates.

Supplementary points

  • The Department of National Defence transferred funds to Global Affairs Canada in 2018-19 via the Supplementary Estimates (A) to implement these initiatives in support of the Middle East Strategy. These include, the Jordan Border Road Rehabilitation project and the Jordan Border Towers Rehabilitation project.
  • The funding supports Canada’s continued commitment to preventing and countering violent extremism through capacity building initiatives under Operation IMPACT – Canada’s military contribution to the Global Coalition against Daesh.

Expected results

  • The ultimate objective of these initiatives is to advance the safety and security of Canadians and affected populations from the continued threat posed by terrorism and violent extremism by enhancing the capacity of local security forces to prevent and respond to terrorist elements.

Results

  • Operation IMPACT has strengthened the capacity of local armed forces in Lebanon, Jordan and Iraq by providing support, training, and assistance as well as non-lethal equipment to security forces in Jordan, Lebanon and Iraq.
  • This includes the Jordan Border Road Rehabilitation project and the Jordan Border Towers Rehabilitation project, along Jordan’s border with Syria, which will enhance border security.
  • Progress on any given initiative is tracked and measured against the projects’ stated outcomes through routine monitoring and evaluation visits by Global Affairs Canada officials as well as members of the Canadian Armed Forces stationed in the region.
  • Results are reported on through the Government of Canada’s Middle East Strategy, which tracks progress through bi-annual and annual reports.

Background

  • In December 2018, the Department of National Defence transferred $53.8 million (Vote 10 – Grants and Contributions) to Global Affairs Canada to support the Middle East Strategy.
  • Some of the funding was re-profiled due to projects being multi-year agreements. These projects will continue to disburse over the next two fiscal years (2019–2020 and 2020–2021).

Supporting facts and figures

Allocation by core responsibility:

Allocation by core responsibility:

Transfer payments

3. Development, peace and security programming

11,825,990

Grand total

11,825,990

Allocation by standard object:

Objects of expenditure

Total

01 – Personnel – EBP

n/a

01 – Personnel

n/a

02 – Transportation and communications

n/a

03 – Information

n/a

04 – Professional and special services

n/a

05 – Rentals

n/a

06 – Purchased repair and maintenance

n/a

07 – Utilities, materials and supplies

n/a

08 – Acquisition of land, buildings and works

n/a

09 – Acquisition of machinery and equipment

n/a

10 – Transfer payments

11,825,990

12 – Other subsidies and payments

n/a

Less: Revenues credited to the vote

n/a

Total

11,825,990

Questions and answers

Why were these funds not disbursed when they were received in fiscal year (FY) 2018 to 2019?

  • Due to the on-the-ground challenges of implementing projects in certain countries (including Iraq), [REDACTED] these funds were not fully disbursed when they were received in FY 2018 to 2019.

Does Global Affairs Canada envision any further challenges to the implementation of these initiatives?

  • Officials at Global Affairs Canada and the Department of National Defence have fully costed the remaining $11.8M to be transferred in 2019–2020, and the $3.9M in 2020–2021 in new initiatives. Projects have been vetted through a priority review committee, comprised of internal and external stakeholders, including the Department of National Defence, [REDACTED]

What is the reputational risk should this funding not be transferred?

  • These projects are central to Canada’s Middle East Strategy specifically Canada’s military contribution to the Global Coalition against Daesh. [REDACTED].

Funding for the International Education Strategy

Overview

  • Global Affairs Canada is requesting funding of $3.3 million for 2019–2020 via Supplementary Estimates (A) to support the implementation of the Global Affairs Canada portion of the new International Education Strategy.
  • As part of Budget 2019, building on the commitment in the 2018 Fall Economic Statement to develop a new International Education Strategy, the Government proposed to invest $147.9 million over five years, starting in 2019–20, and $8.0 million per year ongoing.
  • Of the $147.9 million for the horizontal initiative, Global Affairs Canada received $34.0 million.

Supplementary points

  • [REDACTED]

Expected results

  • [REDACTED]

Results

  • The target established under the 2014 International Education Strategy - to double the number of international students to 450,000 by 2022 was surpassed in 2017, with Canada becoming the fourth top destination for international students.
  • In 2018, there were over 721,000 international students in Canada at all levels of study across all 13 provinces and territories.

Background

  • Presently, the Trade Commissioner Service serves over 800 education clients (institutions, schools and companies) each year and in 2018-19, delivered 6,731 education-related services to clients, facilitated 224 international education sector success stories and achieved a 96% client satisfaction rating.
  • With intensified education trade promotion and sector profile in an expanded and more diverse international market, an increase in the number of international education sector success stories is highly likely. Results achieved under the 2014 International Education Strategy reinforce this.
  • An evaluation of the new International Education Strategy will be conducted after the third year of implementation.

Supporting facts and figures

Allocation by core responsibility:

Allocation by core responsibility:

EBP

Salaries

Operating

Transfer payments

Total

2. Trade and investment

29,276

108,432

1,971,361

1,000,000

3,109,069

6. Internal services

37,788

139,954

60,772

n/a

238,514

Grand total

67,064

248,386

2,032,133

1,000,000

3,347,583

Allocation by standard object:

Objects of expenditure

Total

01 – Personnel – EBP

67,064

01 – Personnel

248,386

02 – Transportation and communications

101,000

03 – Information

1,000

04 – Professional and special services

1,920,133

05 – Rentals

n/a

06 – Purchased repair and maintenance

n/a

07 – Utilities, materials and supplies

10,000

08 – Acquisition of land, buildings and works

n/a

09 – Acquisition of machinery and equipment

n/a

10 – Transfer payments

1,000,000

12 – Other subsidies and payments

n/a

Less: Revenues credited to the vote

n/a

Total

3,347,583

Questions and answers

How is Global Affairs Canada working with provinces and territories given their jurisdictional responsibility for education?

  • Canada's new International Education Strategy is designed to support and complement efforts by provinces, territories and stakeholders to achieve a joint goal of greater success for the international education sector.
  • We continue to work closely with the provinces and territories on a number of initiatives to promote Canada’s education services abroad.
  • Global Affairs Canada co-chairs the biannual Federal-Provincial Consultative Committee on Education Related International Activities (FPCCERIA), along with a representative of the provinces and territories, to establish common goals and approaches for attracting international students.

Responsive: [REDACTED]

  • The Government of Canada works closely with the provinces and territories, which have jurisdiction over education, to market Canada’s education services abroad.
  • All provinces and territories were invited to contribute to the development of Canada's new International Education Strategy.
  • Positive input was received from a number of provinces and territories.
  • Like the other provinces and territories, Quebec is a key partner with respect to advancing international education, and we are looking forward to continuing to engage with them on international education initiatives.

How is this Strategy different from Canada's earlier International Education Strategy?

  • In 2014, Canada launched its first International Education Strategy focused on attracting talent to Canada and improving the economy.
  • The 2014 Strategy was successful in that it doubled the number of international students in Canada from 225,000 in 2014 to 450,000 by 2017.
  • While building on previous efforts, the new Strategy addresses gaps in our approach to international education to ensure that we remain competitive on the world stage.
  • For example, the Strategy includes a sophisticated digital marketing focus to help create a better user experience for international students and provide support for renewed marketing activities.
  • Under the Strategy, the Trade Commissioner Service (TCS) will intensify its efforts to grow and diversify Canada’s international education sector and to increase exports of educational services and products.
  • The Strategy will help the TCS ramp up its presence at large-scale trade events and education fairs, as well as provide enhanced training and opportunities for Trade Commissioners.

Funding for the Corporate Social Responsibility Strategy for Canadian Businesses Operating Abroad

Overview

  • Global Affairs Canada is requesting funding of $1.0 million for 2019–2020 via Supplementary Estimates (A) to implement a strengthened Corporate Social Responsibility Strategy.
  • Budget 2018 announced an investment of $6.8 million over six years (starting in 2017-18) and $1.3 million on-going to fund a strengthened Corporate Social Responsibility Strategy that will bolster Canada’s commitment to responsible trade and investment and corporate accountability abroad.

Supplementary points

  • In total, Global Affairs Canada will be requesting $5.6 million over five years (from 2019–2020 to 2023–2024) and $1.2 million ongoing.
  • This funding will cover:
    • The salary and operating expenses for the office and staff of the Canadian Ombudsperson for Responsible Enterprise (CORE);
    • The operating expenses for the multi-stakeholder Advisory Body for responsible business conduct; and
    • Additional Departmental resources and operational budget to increase training, outreach and communication capacity of Global Affairs Canada on responsible business conduct.
  • As per the Order-in-Council, the Ombudsperson is mandated to:
    • Promote the implementation of the UN Guiding Principles and the OECD Guidelines; advise Canadian companies on their policies and practices with respect to RBC;
    • Review allegations of human rights abuses arising from the operations of a Canadian company abroad in the mining, oil and gas and garment sectors; offer informal mediation services; and,
    • Provide advice to the Minister on any matter relating to her mandate.
  • The CORE has the ability to receive complaints, undertake a review at her own initiative, conduct joint and independent fact-finding, make recommendations, follow-up on those recommendations and, report publicly throughout the process.
  • The Multi-Stakeholder Advisory Body (MSAB) was established to advise the Government on the effective implementation and further development of its laws, policies and practices with respect to RBC for Canadian companies active abroad in all sectors. The MSAB is also expected to provide advice on the complementarity of the CORE and the NCP.

Expected results

  • This funding will strengthen Canada’s approach to Corporate Social Responsibility, which adopts a voluntary approach that aims, first, to promote international responsible business conduct standards; second, to catch problems early before they escalate; and third, to help resolve differences between Canadian companies and those affected by their operations abroad through State-based non-judicial dispute resolution mechanisms.

Results

  • There have been two meetings of the Multi-Stakeholder Advisory Body, as well as three sub-committee meetings.
  • The formal evaluation of the 2014 CSR Strategy is currently underway and will provide recommendations for the renewed Strategy for 2020–2025 (expected in late 2020).
  • The Department has undertaken numerous initiatives to increase awareness within the Trade Commissioner Service network and with clients with respect to Responsible Business Conduct. This has included:
    • Promoting and advancing widely-recognized international RBC standards, including the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights and the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises;
    • Strengthening the international RBC environment through local capacity building, anti-corruption initiatives, CSR language in free trade agreements and training in Canada and at missions abroad;
    • Fostering networks and partnerships with stakeholders through a whole-of-mission approach; and,
    • Helping resolve differences between Canadian companies and those affected by their operations abroad by providing assistance through voluntary dispute resolution mechanisms.
  • In 2018–2019, 54 Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Fund projects were delivered in 26 countries. Similar results are expected for 2019–2020.
  • The Department will ensure that results continue to be delivered through:
    • Continuing to work closely with the office of the CORE to support it in becoming operational on a priority basis;
    • Developing training programs, and internal and external communications materials to advance RBC related Department wide objectives.

Background

  • In January 2018, the Prime Minister approved the creation of a Canadian Ombudsperson for Responsible Enterprise and a multi-stakeholder Advisory Body on Responsible Business Conduct. On April 8, 2019, Ms. Sheri Meyerhoffer was appointed by Order-in-Council as the first Canadian Ombudsperson for Responsible Enterprise.
  • The Canadian Ombudsperson for Responsible Enterprise will assist wherever possible in collaboratively resolving disputes or conflicts between impacted stakeholders and Canadian companies abroad. She is empowered to review alleged human rights abuse allegations, recommend remedial actions, and follow up on their implementation.
  • The Canadian Ombudsperson for Responsible Enterprise’s scope focuses on the mining, oil and gas, and garment sectors. The Ombudsperson subsumes the roles and responsibilities of the Extractive Sector Corporate Social Responsibility Counsellor whose mandate expired on May 18, 2018.

Supporting facts and figures

Allocation by core responsibility:

Allocation by core responsibility:

EBP

Salaries

Operating

Total

2. Trade and investment

110,429

552,146

195,000

857,575

6. Internal services

20,312

101,558

44,650

166,520

Grand total

130,741

653,704

239,650

1,024,095

Allocation by standard object:

Objects of expenditure

Total

01 – Personnel – EBP

130,741

01 – Personnel

653,704

02 – Transportation and communications

108,218

03 – Information

1,276

04 – Professional and special services

110,630

05 – Rentals

12,344

06 – Purchased repair and maintenance

1,827

07 – Utilities, materials and supplies

5,355

08 – Acquisition of land, buildings and works

n/a

09 – Acquisition of machinery and equipment

n/a

10 – Transfer payments

n/a

12 – Other subsidies and payments

n/a

Less: Revenues credited to the vote

n/a

Total

1,024,095

Questions and answers

When will the office of the CORE be fully operational?

  • The Department continues to work with the office of the Canadian Ombudsperson for Responsible Enterprise to support it in becoming operational as soon as possible.

Differing Stakeholder Views

  • This government will continue to actively engage with Canadians on responsible business conduct issues, building on what we have accomplished to date.
  • The Government of Canada strongly supports ongoing stakeholder dialogue between various groups to inform the development of responsible business conduct policies.

Multi-Stakeholder Advisory Body (MSAB) Resignations

  • The MSAB’s mandate is to provide advice to the Minister and the Government of Canada on issues of responsible business conduct that fall under the remit of Global Affairs Canada. This can include, but is not limited to, advice on either of Canada’s dispute resolution mechanisms.
  • We deeply value our engagement with key stakeholders who have direct experience in strengthening responsible business practices both in policy and practical application.
  • Contributions of the MSAB and input received from all Canadians actively engaged in this work have been invaluable in the development of RBC policy and the establishment of the Ombudsperson’s Office as we work to refine our approach.
  • This government will continue to actively engage with Canadians on responsible business conduct issues, building on what we have accomplished to date.
  • Options will be provided to the Minister to find the best way forward to renew the Advisory body.
  • The Government of Canada is committed to continually improving Canadian corporate accountability abroad and advancing our responsible business policies and practices in a way that makes a meaningful difference and this is possible in part due to the contribution and engagement of stakeholders.

Funding for the construction of Canada’s High Commission in Colombo, Sri Lanka

Overview

  • Glob requesting funding of Chancery Relocation in Sri Lanka.
  • The rehabilitation and expansion of the chancery in Colombo will be completed in 2023/2024 [REDACTED].

Supplementary points

  • [REDACTED].
  • [REDACTED].

Expected results

  • Global Affairs Canada will design a long-term accommodation solution for Canada’s chancery in Colombo. The project is expected to contribute to:
    • Fulfilling the Government of Canada’s legal responsibility (duty of care) to protect its employees;
    • Taking reasonable and necessary precautions to ensure a secure working environment at Canada’s mission abroad;
    • Fulfilling Canada’s commitment to its allies with respect to the safety and security of Canadian and allied intelligence;
    • Safeguarding the stewardships of government resources and assets;
    • Enhancing the security capabilities for Canada’s missions abroad; and
    • Meeting the current day building codes, standards for security and barrier-free access.

Results

  • The completed long-term accommodation solution will result in a chancery that meets program, security, health and safety, seismic and environmental standards.
  • When complete, the upgraded Chancery building will support the departmental mandate by contributing to:
    • The sound management and the delivery of resources, infrastructure and services enabling Canada’s presence abroad; and
    • The safety of personnel, the security of the mission as well as the protection of government and partner assets and information.

Background

  • [REDACTED].
  • Since 2007, all facilities on the Colombo site have been deteriorating into very poor condition due to humidity, rain, and moisture infiltration into the structures. The facility no longer meets the requirements of Part II of the Canada Labour Code or the National Building Code of Canada. Mitigation efforts were unsuccessful in resolving the deterioration problems.
  • In September 2009, GAC leased a converted seven-story apartment building to serve as Canada’s interim chancery space until a permanent solution could be implemented.
  • [REDACTED] however, [REDACTED], the project was suspended in 2013 prior to going to Treasury Board. Project expenditure at that date was $2.1 million, which was spent on options analysis, design work, site services, minor repairs and site security.
  • The mission has now been in interim accommodations for ten years. [REDACTED]. To meet its duty of care obligation, the Department is currently undertaking some minor projects with the mission to address deficiencies where possible. Most of the security deficiencies can only be addressed through a relocation.

Supporting facts and figures

Allocation by core responsibility:

Allocation by core responsibility:

EBP

Salaries

Operating

Capital

Total

5. Support for Canada’s presence abroad

60,426

n/a

n/a

544,800

605,226

6. Internal services

8,086

29,949

11,130

n/a

49,165

Grand total

68,512

29,949

11,130

544,800

654,391

Allocation by standard object:

Objects of expenditure

Total

01 – Personnel – EBP

68,512

01 – Personnel

253,749

02 – Transportation and communications

n/a

03 – Information

n/a

04 – Professional and special services

n/a

05 – Rentals

n/a

06 – Purchased repair and maintenance

n/a

07 – Utilities, materials and supplies

n/a

08 – Acquisition of land, buildings and works

332,130

09 – Acquisition of machinery and equipment

n/a

10 – Transfer payments

n/a

12 – Other subsidies and payments

n/a

Less: Revenues credited to the vote

n/a

Total

654,391

Questions and answers

Are the personnel working in Colombo currently in safe accommodations?

  • The current interim chancery is in leased space in Colombo. [REDACTED]. The Department is undertaking minor projects in this location to address a number of the noted deficiencies and ensure a safe and secure working environment.

What work is being done to ensure the new chancery meets sustainability standards?

  • The design for the chancery includes several sustainability enhancements, including modern and energy efficient mechanical and electrical systems. As the project progresses, opportunities to enhance the building’s sustainability will be reviewed by the project team. These enhancements need to be balanced with local market expertise and capacity to repair and purchase replacement parts.

Administration of new free trade agreement measures and steel safeguards

Overview

  • Budget 2019 allocated two years of funding to Global Affairs Canada via Budget Implementation Vote 30 for the “Administration of new free trade agreement measures and steel safeguards” as follows: $11.4 million in 2019–2020 and $3.5 million in 2020–2021.
  • The funding will be used to administer new tariff-rate quotas under the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership, Canada-United-Sates-Mexico Agreement and potential safeguards on certain steel products.

Supplementary points

  • Canada has established:
    • 20 new tariff rate quotas (TRQs) under the Comprehensive and Progressive Trans Pacific Partnership; and,
    • New steel safeguard TRQs pursuant to a recommendation by the Canadian International Trade Tribunal.
  • Canada proposes to establish:
    • 16 new TRQs; and
    • 2 new global dairy export thresholds under the Canada-US-Mexico Agreement.
  • Collectively these represent a significant increase in the number of trade controls programs that Global Affairs Canada administers and will significantly increase the department’s workload.
  • Funds in Budget 2019 will support the creation of new full-time employee positions to increase capacity and to provide operational support for IM/IT needs. Funding has been allocated to the following 3 initiatives as follows (FY 2019–2020):
    • Comprehensive and Progressive Trans Pacific Partnership: $1.6 million (salary and operations) + $3.3 million (capital)
    • Canada-US-Mexico Agreement: $1.8 million (salary and operations)
    • Steel Safeguards: $1.4 million (salary and operations) + $3.3 million (capital)

Expected results

Comprehensive and Progressive Trans Pacific Partnership and Canada-US-Mexico Agreement

  • The immediate outcomes of this proposal are the administration of the new TRQs in a timely and efficient manner, and Canada meeting its international commitments with key trading partners.
  • The ultimate outcome of these proposals will be a strengthened and more inclusive rules-based global trading system, support for the long-term health of the supply management system, accessible import access for products covered by the new TRQs, and increased consumer access to dairy, poultry and egg products.
  • The expected outcomes will be measured by way of timeliness and efficiency of TRQ allocation and import permit issuance. GAC will track the extent to which permits are issued in line with its client service standards.

Steel Safeguards

  • The funding enables the Government to implement WTO-compliant steel safeguards. It is expected that the steel safeguards will help to ensure that the Canadian market is not unduly disrupted by the diversion of steel products.
  • The ultimate outcome for the funding will be the protection and promotion of the competitiveness of Canada’s steel manufacturing industry, as well as users of steel, such as automakers and the energy and infrastructure sectors.
  • The expected outcomes will be measured by way of import data gathered from shipment-specific import permits reflecting quantities and values of steel products imported from countries to which the safeguards apply.

Background

Comprehensive and Progressive Trans Pacific Partnership

  • Asia-Pacific markets are growing quickly and provide significant opportunities for trade and investment. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) is a free trade agreement between Canada and 10 other countries in the Asia-Pacific region: Australia, Brunei, Chile, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore and Vietnam.
  • On December 30, 2018, the CPTPP entered into force among the first six countries to ratify the agreement – Canada, Australia, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, and Singapore. On January 14, 2019, the CPTPP entered into force for Vietnam.
  • Under the CPTPP, Canada has agreed to grant additional market access for various goods in the dairy, poultry and egg sectors. This additional market access is being administered by way of 20 new TRQs.
  • These new commitments represent the most significant increase in TRQs under the Department’s responsibility since Canada implemented its WTO Agreement on Agriculture commitments in 1995. The number of supply-managed TRQs administered by the Department, numbering 18 before the introduction of CPTPP, have more than doubled to 38 TRQs.

Canada-US-Mexico Agreement

  • On September 30, 2018, following more than a year of negotiations, Canada, Mexico, and the United States announced the completion of negotiations toward a new CUSMA. The outcomes preserve key elements of this trading relationship and incorporate new and updated provisions that seek to address 21st-century trade issues and promote opportunities for the nearly half a billion people who live in North America.
  • This modernized agreement maintains the tariff-free market access from the original North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), and includes updates and new chapters to address modern-day trade challenges and opportunities.
  • Under the CUSMA, Canada has agreed to grant additional market access for various goods in the dairy, poultry and egg sectors. This additional market access will be administered by way of the creation of 16 new TRQs. Canada has also agreed to manage exports of certain dairy products through the creation of two new export thresholds.

Steel safeguards

  • Effective October 25, 2018, provisional safeguard measures in the form of the form of TRQs were applied to seven categories of steel products imported into Canada from most countries for 200 days from October 25, 2018, to May 13, 2019.
  • During this 200-day period, the Canadian International Trade Tribunal (CITT) conducted a global steel safeguards inquiry which recommended new steel safeguard TRQs be established for two of the seven categories examined.
  • Trade-restrictive regimes for steel have arisen in major markets around the world over the last few years, with anti dumping duty, countervailing duty, and more recently, safeguard measures employed numerous times.
  • In April 2017, the Trump administration investigation concluded steel was being imported in such quantities and under such circumstances as to threaten to impair US national security, with excess global production of steel and the present quantities of steel imports into the United States “weakening internal economy and shrinking ability to meet national security production requirements in a national emergency.” On May 31, 2018, President Trump extended measures to include Canada and Mexico, and imposed a 25 percent tariff on imports of certain steel products.
  • On July 1, 2018, Canada responded by imposing a countermeasure, i.e. a 25 percent surtax on up to C$16.6 billion in imports of steel (and other products) from the United States, representing the value of 2017 Canadian exports affected by the U.S. measures.
  • The European Union (July 2018 & January 2019), China (August 2018) and Mexico (June 2018), Turkey (September 2018) have also implemented targeted countermeasures.
  • The CITT issued its report on April 3, 2019, and found that final safeguards are warranted for imports of heavy plate and stainless steel wire. On April 26, 2019, the Government announced its intent to enact final safeguards on these two categories of steel. On this date, the Government also announced an intensive 30-day consultation with industry and workers, in order to determine what further protections for the Canadian steel industry are required. This working group will ensure that the views of workers and industry continue to be heard and are acted upon without delay.
  • Final steel safeguards were implemented on May 13, 2019 until October 24, 2021. Under Bill 101, which received Royal Assent in June 2019, additional safeguards may be implemented at a later date if global conditions dictate.
  • On May 17, 2019, the Canada-United States Joint Statement on Section 232 Duties on Steel and Aluminum removed U.S. tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum exports and monitoring commitments were agreed to by Canada and the United States.
  • In August 2019, the government strengthened the import monitoring program for steel products with reporting and record keeping requirements and implemented a similar program to cover aluminum products, effective September 1, 2019, in order to implement the monitoring commitments made by Canada in the Joint Statement.

Supporting facts and figures

  • Funding allocated in Budget 2019 was not accessed for the 2019–2020 year. [REDACTED].

Questions and answers

Why did the Department not seek the funding it was allocated for these initiatives in 2019–2020?

  • GAC chose not to seek Budget 2019 funds for CPTPP due to uncertainty surrounding long-term funding for CPTPP administration.
  • GAC chose not to seek Budget 2019 funds for steel safeguards and import monitoring program due to an unforeseen expansion of program to include aluminum imports.
  • Due to uncertainty surrounding these initiatives, GAC has cash managed the positions created to implement them. However, this funding solution diverted resources from other initiatives in the department and is not viable in the long term.
  • GAC did not seek Budget 2019 funds for CUSMA as the agreement has not been ratified. No positions have been created in support of CUSMA implementation.

Does GAC plan to seek the funds in the future?

  • [REDACTED].

Funding for protecting Canada’s national security

Overview

  • Global Affairs Canada Global Affairs Canada received $979,161 in 2019–2020 via the 2019 Budget Implementation Vote 35 to support funding for Protecting Canada’s National Security.
  • Budget 2019 proposed investing $67.3 million over five years, starting in 2019–2020 and $13.8 million ongoing, to Public Safety Canada; Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada; Global Affairs Canada; and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, among other federal agencies.

Supplementary points

  • In total, Global Affairs Canada is requesting $5.8 million over five years (from 2019–2020 to 2023–2024) and $1.3 million ongoing for Protecting Canada’s National Security.
  • Funding released will permit the Department to respond effectively to the proposals put forward by the Economic Security Task Force, established in January 2019, by Deputy Ministers and the Clerk of the Privy Council.

Expected results

  • This initiative will allow Global Affairs Canada to:
    • respond more quickly and effectively to the highly time and commercially sensitive files managed under the Investment Canada Act;
    • better integrate intelligence and analysis into decision making by identifying and understanding new and emerging threat vectors;
    • manage complex files, with the appropriate technical expertise, under the Export and Imports Permit Protection Act and the Remote Space Sensing Systems Act; and
    • address the increasing demands for support from both investors and other government departments working on economic security matters.
  • To date, results include:
    • increased analysis of economic security challenges for Canada in the global environment, which fills an information gap.
    • training provided to Trade Commissioners on the challenges of Chinese overseas investments and the implications for Canadian companies.
    • enhanced reporting from field officers on economic security related issues.

Background

  • Global Affairs Canada has legislated responsibilities related to economic security as a result of the Investment Canada Act, the Export and Imports Permit Protection Act and the Remote Space Sensing Systems Act. These responsibilities are time sensitive, sensitive for commercial and security reasons, and require technical expertise to manage.

Supporting facts and figures

Allocation by core responsibility:

Allocation by core responsibility:

EBP

Salaries

Operating

Total

1. International advocacy and diplomacy

76,087

281,804

60,500

418,391

2. Trade and investment

63,759

236,144

75,500

375,403

6. Internal services

30,188

111,806

43,373

185,367

Grand total

170,034

629,754

179,373

979,161

Allocation by standard object:

Objects of expenditure

Total

01 – Personnel – EBP

170,034

01 – Personnel

629,754

02 – Transportation and communications

89,686

03 – Information

n/a

04 – Professional and special services

89,687

05 – Rentals

n/a

06 – Purchased repair and maintenance

n/a

07 – Utilities, materials and supplies

n/a

08 – Acquisition of land, buildings and works

n/a

09 – Acquisition of machinery and equipment

n/a

10 – Transfer payments

n/a

12 – Other subsidies and payments

n/a

Less: Revenues credited to the vote

n/a

Total

979,161

Funding for protecting democracy

Overview

  • Global Affairs Canada received $670,211 in 2019–2020 via the Budget 2019 Implementation Vote 40 for Protecting Democracy.
  • Budget 2019 is setting aside funding over a five-year period to implement a number of new measures to further strengthen and safeguard Canada’s democratic institutions.
  • Global Affairs Canada will receive $2.1 million over three years to establish and coordinate a Rapid Response Mechanism unit to strengthen cooperation and information sharing amongst G7 members in response to foreign threats to democracies.

Supplementary points

  • In total, Global Affairs Canada is requesting $2.1 million over three years (from 2019–2020 to 2021–2022) for Protecting Canada’s Democracy. Of this total, Global Affairs Canada received $670,211 in 2019–2020 via the Budget 2019 Implementation Vote 40 and the remainder is requested via the 2020–2021 Annual Reference Level Update.
  • Canada has committed to lead a Rapid Response Mechanism (RRM) on an ongoing basis and establish the RRM Coordination Unit as a three-year pilot project.
  • The RRM is a G7 Commitment announced in Charlevoix in June 2018 and endorsed by Ministers in April 2019. The RRM’s mandate is to strengthen G7 coordination to identify and respond to diverse and evolving threats to G7 democracies, including through sharing information and analysis, and identifying opportunities for a coordinated response. It is comprised of focal points from the G7 Members, each positioned to leverage their own national-level structures and processes to support engagement in the RRM network.
  • The RRM also participates in the Security and Intelligence Threats to Elections Task Force to act as an early warning system by providing open source data analytics and leveraging the RRM network in terms of information exchange and potential response. The Task Force works to prevent covert, clandestine, or criminal activities from influencing or interfering with the electoral process in Canada. It includes the Communications Security Establishment, the Canadian Security Intelligence Service and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.

Expected results

  • Through this initiative, Global Affairs Canada will contribute to keeping Canada’s democratic institutions safe, while respecting Canadians rights and freedoms.
  • The RRM’s goal is to ensure that information about threats to democracy, including lessons learned, flow systematically and freely among G7 members, and for the Coordination Unit to nurture and strengthen relationships of trust with G7 counterparts.
  • The Coordination Unit will also undertake open social media monitoring and analysis activities in support of the RRM mandate and produce relevant reports to share with the G7 RRM community.
  • The Unit also takes active part in efforts aimed at safeguarding the Canadian federal election from covert, clandestine, or criminal activities aimed at influencing or interfering with the electoral process.

Results

  • In 2019–2020, the funding supported the following results:
    • The Coordination Unit at Global Affairs Canada was established, and the G7 RRM is operational with all Focal Points identified.
    • The RRM also developed relationships with a range of stakeholders from non-governmental and multilateral organisations to develop synergies and avoid duplication in addressing foreign threats to democracy.
    • To support the information-sharing aspect of the RRM, a monthly round-up or Wire is produced. Two in-house reports on foreign interference – one on the EU elections and one on the Ukraine elections, were also published.
    • Recognising the global nature posed by foreign threats to democracy, the RRM has expanded its information-sharing benefits to new states (New Zealand, Australia, the Netherlands and Lithuania) and has also included in its wider network a range of experts (over 100).
    • The Unit was set up as a three-year-long pilot project to be assessed in its third year of functioning. As such, there is a rigorous monitoring and reporting framework in place:
      • Progress reports to Ministers, with the first progress report submitted to Foreign Affairs Ministers in April 2019.
      • Global Affairs Canada corporate reporting mechanisms, including tracking and reporting on the commitments of the Office of Human Rights, Freedoms and Inclusion and on commitments made during G7 summits and meetings.
      • Post-election reporting on Government of Canada efforts to safeguard the 2019 federal election.

Background

  • Canadian security officials assessed that the threat of foreign interference from both human and cyber operations was real and growing in advance of the 2019 federal election. In light of this, the Protecting Canada’s Democracy Treasury Board Submission proposed funding to address policy and capability gaps to defend against foreign interference and protect the 2019 federal election and beyond.
  • The initiative is a pan-government proposal, involving Global Affairs Canada, Canadian Heritage, the Communications Security Establishment and the Canadian Security Intelligence Service, that seeks to address cyber threats, support intelligence gathering, increase public and international awareness of disinformation and threats to democratic processes, and lead an international initiative aimed at building consensus (i.e., the RRM).

Supporting facts and figures

Allocation by core responsibility:

Allocation by core responsibility:

EBP

Salaries

Operating

Total

1. International advocacy and diplomacy

47,264

175,053

372,062

594,379

6. Internal services

11,128

41,212

23,492

75,832

Grand total

58,392

216,265

395,554

670,211

Allocation by standard object:

Objects of expenditure

Total

01 – Personnel – EBP

58,392

01 – Personnel

216,265

02 – Transportation and communications

95,000

03 – Information

n/a

04 – Professional and special services

300,554

05 – Rentals

n/a

06 – Purchased repair and maintenance

n/a

07 – Utilities, materials and supplies

n/a

08 – Acquisition of land, buildings and works

n/a

09 – Acquisition of machinery and equipment

n/a

10 – Transfer payments

n/a

12 – Other subsidies and payments

n/a

Less: Revenues credited to the vote

n/a

Total

670,211

Questions and answers

What do these funds cover? How do you justify these additional expenditures?

  • Additional resources were required to establish the G7 Rapid Response Mechanism Coordination Unit at Global Affairs Canada. Namely, additional policy and data analysts were required. Additional operational funds were also needed to cover expenses related to coordination, outreach, and open source data monitoring and analytical activities.

Has the RRM been a good value for money?

  • The RRM has seen some success in sharing unclassified information and analysis about foreign threats to democracy and building a shared understanding of the threat landscape across the G7 and beyond. The RRM Coordination Unit also actively participated in the Government of Canada efforts to safeguard the Canadian federal election and showed value-added in acting as an early warning system by providing open source data analytics pertaining to foreign threats and leveraging the RRM network.

Where do you see gaps and room for improvement?

  • The RRM has been mandated with two primary objectives – information sharing and coordinated response. While the first objective has seen some success, we now need to focus our energies on testing the mechanism and further developing its coordinated response dimension.

Can Canadians participate in any way? How can Canadian citizens learn about how is the G7 Rapid Response Mechanism meeting its mandate?

  • The RRM works with a range of partners from civil society, such as experts, think tanks, academics, and others to gain a better understanding of the challenges democracies face. When possible and appropriate, the RRM reports on its progress and shares information with the public and has a publically accessible website.

Funding for the renewing Canada’s Middle East Strategy (Budget 2019)

Overview

  • Global Affairs Canada has received funding of $249.7 million for 2019–2020 via the Budget Implementation Vote 45 to support Renewing Canada’s Middle East Strategy.
  • Budget 2019 confirmed the Government’s plan to provide up to an additional $1.39 billion over two years to renew the Middle East Strategy.

Supplementary points

  • Global Affairs Canada is requesting $499.4 million over two years (from 2019–2020 to 2020–2021) for Renewing Canada’s Middle East Strategy.

Expected results

  • Canada’s renewed Middle East Strategy is working to:
    • provide gender-sensitive humanitarian assistance to the over 19 million people in Syria and Iraq who are in dire need;
    • build the resilience of communities and governments in Jordan and Lebanon to help them shoulder the burden of hosting approximately 1.5 million Syrian refugees;
    • foster social cohesion, build livelihoods, restore services and basic infrastructure, and support demining operations to help more of the 8.4 million IDPs in Iraq and Syria to safely return home;
    • increase stability by sustained efforts to improve inclusive governance; and,
    • support the Global Coalition Against Daesh, strengthen counter-terrorism capacity, and combat the acquisition and use of weapons of mass destruction to mitigate the threat of terrorism and violent extremism to Canada, our partners, and the region.
  • Through the Middle East Strategy, Canada contributed to the following results with the support of coalition partners:
    • Over 7.7 million people, and all of the territory once held by Daesh in Iraq and Syria, have been freed from Daesh’s control;
    • More than 19.2 million square metres of land have been cleared of explosives, allowing displaced persons to safely return home;
    • Security forces in Iraq, Jordan and Lebanon have received specialized advice, training and equipment to detect and address security threats in the region;
    • Canadian humanitarian and development assistance has enabled humanitarian partners to provide 6.6 million people with emergency food assistance on a monthly basis and training and financial support to 3,600 public schools in Jordan.
  • The Middle East Strategy Coordination Secretariat has a comprehensive results-based management approach supported by an evergreen horizontal Logic Model and Performance Management Framework that organize and track the results achieved by Global Affairs Canada and other government departments.
  • These results are reported through bi-annual and annual reports, which are overseen by a DG-level Middle East Strategy Steering Committee that can adjust operations in response.

Background

  • Budget 2019 confirmed the Government’s plan to provide up to an additional $1.39 billion over two years on a cash basis, starting in 2019–2020, to renew the Middle East Strategy, with a greater focus on building stability, governance and long-term resilience.
  • Of this amount, $967.9 million will be provided from the fiscal framework and $426 million would be sourced from GAC’s existing International Assistance Envelope resources. The overall funding would be allocated as follows:
    • $926 million to support humanitarian, development, stabilization and security, and diplomatic activities;
    • $442 million to renew Operation IMPACT, Canada’s military contribution; and
    • $25.9 million to support intelligence activities.
  • Daesh continues to be a threat, instability and geopolitical competition persist, and the needs of internally displaced people and refugees remain. Canada and the international community must continue to respond to humanitarian needs, deliver security and stabilization programs, build resilience, and advocate for peace, accountability, and human rights.

Supporting facts and figures

Allocation by core responsibility:

Allocation by core responsibility:

EBP

Salaries

Operating

Transfer payments

Total

1. International advocacy and diplomacy

656,926

2,433,060

2,908,187

n/a

5,998,173

3. Development, peach and security programming

635,582

2,354,009

2,899,099

229,100,000

234,988,690

5. Support for Canada’s presence abroad

173,268

641,732

5,820,893

n/a

6,635,893

6. Internal services

239,453

886,863

934,670

n/a

2,060,986

Grand total

1,705,229

6,315,664

12,562,849

229,100,000

249,683,742

Allocation by standard object:

Objects of expenditure

Total

01 – Personnel – EBP

1,705,229

01 – Personnel

6,315,664

02 – Transportation and communications

1,278,593

03 – Information

125,826

04 – Professional and special services

7,413,861

05 – Rentals

2,599,494

06 – Purchased repair and maintenance

114,288

07 – Utilities, materials and supplies

565,944

08 – Acquisition of land, buildings and works

n/a

09 – Acquisition of machinery and equipment

464,843

10 – Transfer payments

229,100,000

12 – Other subsidies and payments

n/a

Less: Revenues credited to the vote

n/a

Total

249,683,742

Questions and answers

Q. How does the Strategy contribute to the defeat of Daesh?

A. With coalition partners, Canada has made significant military and civilian contributions in the fight against Daesh and stability in the region. However, the job is not complete, and the renewed Strategy works to ensure that our efforts contribute to the enduring defeat of Daesh, by continuing to respond to humanitarian needs, delivering security and stabilization programmes, building resilience, and addressing the current dynamics in the Middle East.

Q. How does the instability in the region (protests in Iraq and Lebanon) affect the Strategy?

A. The Strategy takes into account the volatile and unpredictable context in the region and mitigation measures to reduce the likelihood and impact of risks to Canada’s operations. This includes, for example, flexible funding authorities that allow the department to shift funding between countries to reflect changes on the ground.

A. Canadian programming in support of improved governance, security sector reform, and economic livelihoods is geared towards helping address core issues at the heart of the demands of the populations for genuine political and economic reform.

Q. How has the Middle East Strategy been affected by the Turkish incursion in NE Syria?

A. Canada condemns Turkey’s military incursion into northeastern Syria which undermines the stability of an already fragile region, exacerbates the humanitarian situation and jeopardizes progress achieved in fighting Daesh. Moreover, full, safe and unhindered humanitarian access to Syrians in need is critical. Canada remains committed to helping partners address humanitarian needs in Syria.

Funding for the Arctic

Overview

  • Budget 2019 announced the Arctic and Northern Policy Framework with $308 million over 5 years in new funding to ensure that Arctic and Northern communities can continue to grow and prosper – of this total, Global Affairs Canada international programming budget in the Arctic was increased by $34.1 million over 5 years beginning in 2019–2020 and ongoing.
  • The amount includes $28.7 million in grants and contributions, 4 full-time employees in support of Arctic programming and Arctic security, and operations.
  • The funding has been set aside in the Treasury Board Central Vote 50 (government-wide initiatives) and will be brought into the Department in the Spring of 2020.

Supplementary points

  • The dedicated grants and contributions funding will enhance Canada’s global Arctic leadership through:
    • strengthening our engagement in the Arctic Council;
    • establishing a Canadian-based permanent secretariat for the Council’s Sustainable Development Working Group;
    • supporting the participation of Indigenous Permanent Participants in the Arctic Council and its work;
    • increasing the University of the Arctic (UArctic)’s activities and programming in Canada’s Arctic; and,
    • providing opportunities for northern youth to engage in international Arctic affairs.
  • Programming is in areas pre-determined in the International Chapter of the Arctic and Northern Policy Framework and confirmed in the Budget 2019 announcement.
  • The Arctic and Northern Policy Framework sets out a long-term, strategic vision that will guide the Government of Canada’s activities and investments in the Arctic to 2030 and beyond and will better align Canada’s national and international policy objectives with the priorities of Indigenous peoples and Arctic and Northern residents.

Expected results

  • The proposed program, the Enhanced Canadian International Arctic Fund, intends to increase Canada’s capacity to respond to the urgent threats that climate change and evolving geopolitical trends pose to the lives and livelihood of Northern and Indigenous Canadians in the Circumpolar Arctic.
  • Although the Government of Canada has been very effective at carrying out the objectives it has set forward under the past policies with limited resources, additional funding is required to pursue greater Canadian leadership on issues in the Arctic. Without the additional resources, Canada will not be positioned to respond in an effective or timely manner to ensure its continued ability to lead and influence decision-making and priority setting in the region.

Background

  • For almost 20 years, the Department of Foreign Affairs provided program funding ($1 to 2 million per year) through the Northern Dimension Fund (2001–2012), and afterwards through the Canadian International Arctic Fund (2012-present). It was one of the government's key instruments in furthering its Arctic policy objectives.
  • Amongst other accomplishments, these funds allowed:
    • For the support of Canada’s interest through bilateral and multilateral forums;
    • Canadian Indigenous peoples and other Northerners to play a substantive and constructive role in Arctic policy through contribution of expertise;
    • Key institutional support for the Arctic Council through funding of the Secretariat as well as the strategic initiatives of the Council; and,
    • Advocacy and advancement of Canadian policy priorities abroad through Canadian missions and key Arctic and non-Arctic states.

Supporting facts and figures

Budget 2019 Measures by Department (estimates basis)(millions of dollars (cash basis)

Budget 2019 Measures by Department

2018–2019

2019–2020

2020–2021

2021–2022

2022–2023

2023–2024

Total (Cash)

Global Affairs Canada

0

270

262

9

8

108

658

Administration of new free trade agreement measures and steel safeguards

0

11

3

0

0

0

15

Increasing Canada’s International Assistance Envelope

0

0

0

0

0

100

100

Protecting Canada’s national security

0

1

1

1

1

1

7

Protecting democracy

0

1

1

1

0

0

2

Renewing Canada’s Middle East Strategy

0

250

250

0

0

0

500

Enhancing Canada’s global Arctic leadership

0

6

7

7

7

7

34

Questions and answers

Are there concerns related to being able to provide the funding to partners given the delays since Federal Budget 2019?

  • We are conscious of the fact that the co-development process has taken 2 years. By the time we are able to go to TB, the full proposal will have taken more than a year after the announcement of the Federal Budget. We continue to inform partners on our progress and start having discussions on what is coming up.

Are partners going to be able to use the funds right away once Treasury Board approval is provided?

  • Not all partners will be able to start programming right away. Internal processes and mechanisms will need to take place. Partners are kept informed on what is possible and not. We are already working on some of the processes to be prepared to move quickly once/if approval by Treasury Board is granted.

Funding for the Export Diversification Strategy

Overview

  • Through the Treasury Board Central Vote 10 (Government-Wide Initiatives), Global Affairs Canada received $31.3 million in 2019–2020 to support the Export Diversification Strategy.
  • In the 2018 Fall Economic Statement, the Government announced the Export Diversification Strategy with a $1.1 billion investment over six years that includes a $289.5 million investment in Global Affairs Canada’s Trade Commissioner Service to help Canadian businesses access new markets.

Supplementary points

  • In total, Global Affairs Canada is requesting $340.3 million over six years (from 2019–2020 to 2024–2025) and $68.3 million ongoing for the Export Diversification Strategy.
  • Canada’s new Export Diversification Strategy aims to increase Canada’s overseas (non-U.S.) exports by 50% by 2025. Building on trade diversification initiatives already underway, the Strategy will help Canadian businesses in maximizing their growth by capitalizing on economic opportunities abroad, particularly in markets covered by Free Trade Agreements such as the Canada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) and the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP).

Results

  • Implementation of the Strategy resources started in 2019–2020 and Canadian companies are already beginning to benefit from additional resources available to help them explore new markets. For example, the CanExport-SME program has already seen a significant increase in the number of applications from SMEs. Since April 1, 2019, over 756 SMEs have received support, compared to 642 SMEs the previous fiscal year.
  • New Trade Commissioners are being deployed in key markets abroad and in regions across Canada so that more businesses have access to the advice and services they need to grow globally, including a new office in Winnipeg to offer enhanced service to businesses in Manitoba and Saskatchewan.
  • The TCS is using new resources to offer services focused on digital, e-commerce and intellectual property needs of Canadian businesses.

Background

  • In the 2018 Fall Economic Statement, the Government announced new investments to enhance federal trade services and programs for Canadian exporters. Global Affairs Canada’s Trade Commissioner Service was allocated $289.5 million ($69.8 million ongoing) to help Canadian businesses develop and implement their export plans, and build more global partnerships.

Supporting facts and figures

Allocation by core responsibility:

Allocation by core responsibility:

EBP

Salaries

Operating

Transfer payments

Total

2. Trade and investment

1,547,998

7,739,991

12,659,737

6,825,000

28,772,726

6. Internal services

298,201

1,491,001

696,128

n/a

2,485,330

Grand total

1,846,199

9,230,992

13,355,865

6,825,000

31,258,056

Allocation by standard object:

Objects of expenditure

Total

01 – Personnel – EB

1,846,199

01 – Personnel

9,230,992

02 – Transportation and communications

423,630

03 – Information

4,203,387

04 – Professional and special services

7,205,793

05 – Rentals

979,076

06 – Purchased repair and maintenance

12,380

07 – Utilities, materials and supplies

326,637

08 – Acquisition of land, buildings and works

n/a

09 – Acquisition of machinery and equipment

204,962

10 – Transfer payments

6,825,000

12 – Other subsidies and payments

n/a

Less: Revenues credited to the vote

n/a

Total

31,258,056

Funding for the modernization of the Program and Administrative Services (PA) Group

Overview

  • Through the Treasury Board Central Vote 10 (Government-Wide Initiatives), Global Affairs Canada received $233,763 in 2019–2020 to support the Program and Administrative Services (PA) Modernization Initiative.
  • The Treasury Board authorized an allocation to implement the new classification standards for the PA group, across the Government of Canada.

Supplementary points

  • In total, the Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat will transfer $467,526 to Global Affairs Canada over two years (from 2019–2020 to 2020–2021) to support the Program and Administrative Services (PA) Modernization Initiative.
  • The funds will be used to support the modernization of the PA group including classification operations, project management and change management.
  • The conversion is expected to take place between 2020 and 2022.
  • The PA occupational group covers the following classifications and makes up about 40% of the core public administration.
    • Administrative Services (AS)
    • Information Services (IS)
    • Programme Administration (PM)
    • Welfare Programmes (WP)
    • Communications (CM)
    • Data Processing (DA)
    • Clerical and Regulatory (CR)
    • Office Equipment (OE)
    • Secretarial, Stenographic and Typing (ST)

Expected results

  • Through this initiative, Global Affairs Canada will support the transition to the new PA group, as directed by the Treasury Board Secretariat.
  • The PA group will be restructured to five new sub-groups noting that as at November 2019 the mapping of actual positions to sub-groups has yet to occur.
    • Program and Service Operations (PA-PVO) = CR, AS, PM-01, PM-02, AS-01 and AS-02
    • Executive Administrative Assistant (PA-EAA) = AS, CR and ST
    • Program Development and Administration (PA-PDM) = AS-03 to AS-07, PM-03 to PM-07
    • Rehabilitation and Reintegration (PA-RHB) = WP
    • Communications (PA-CMN) = IS

Background

  • Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat has been working to modernize several classification groups in the core public service. This work is intended to align classification groups with current work duties.

Supporting facts and figures

Allocation by core responsibility:

Allocation by core responsibility:

Salaries

Operating

Total

6. Internal services

206,103

27,660

233,763

Grand total

206,103

27,660

233,763

Allocation by standard object:

Objects of expenditure

Total

01 – Personnel

206,103

02 – Transportation and communications

n/a

03 – Information

n/a

04 – Professional and special services

27,660

05 – Rentals

n/a

06 – Purchased repair and maintenance

n/a

07 – Utilities, materials and supplies

n/a

08 – Acquisition of land, buildings and works

n/a

09 – Acquisition of machinery and equipment

n/a

10 – Transfer payments

n/a

12 – Other subsidies and payments

n/a

Less: Revenues credited to the vote

n/a

Total

233,763

Funding for water management studies in shared Canada and U.S. water basins

Overview

  • International Joint Commission (IJC) is requesting a rollover of funding of $902,755 for 2019–2020 via Supplementary Estimates (A) for water management studies in shared Canada and U.S. transboundary water basins.
  • The International Joint Commission is under the portfolio of the Minister of Foreign Affairs.

Supplementary points

  • Through the Boundary Waters Treaty of 1909, Canada and the United States created the International Joint Commission (IJC), which provides basic principles for guiding boundary and transboundary water management. The IJC was established to prevent and resolve environmental and water-resource disputes.
  • The IJC is an effective tool in managing shared waters in a neutral, binational, scientific way, helping to resolve cross-border disputes on environmental issues. It also gives Canada, the smaller Party, an equal voice on bilateral issues.
  • The IJC studies and recommends solutions to transboundary issues when asked to do so by the national governments. The rollover of funding requested through Supplementary Estimates will support two flooding plans of study which were supported by Cabinet in February 2016, and funded through the 2016 Budget. This is a re-profile of funds from 2018–19 to this fiscal year. Due to the U.S. government shutdown earlier this year, on May 6 and July 22, the IJC wrote to governments asking for an extension of one year to complete the Souris River Flooding Study and the Lake Champlain-Richelieu River Flooding Study. The governments approved both of the IJC’s extension requests, and the deadline for the study board to complete its work for the Souris River Flooding Study is now January 2021, and December 2022 for the Lake Champlain-Richelieu River flooding study.

Expected results

  • Funds are required to help governments effectively address the significant flooding which has been experienced in these two transboundary watersheds, and help inform future decision-making. The two studies take into account the socioeconomic impacts for both Lake Champlain Richelieu River and the Souris River, as well as stakeholder and First Nations’ needs, and the impacts of climate change.

Background

  • The International Joint Commission is an independent binational organization established by the Boundary Waters Treaty of 1909. Its purpose is to help prevent and resolve disputes relating to the use and quality of boundary waters and to advise Canada and the United States on related questions.
  • The IJC has two main responsibilities: approving projects that affect water levels and flows across the boundary and investigating transboundary issues and recommending solutions.
  • The IJC's recommendations and decisions take into account the needs of a wide range of water uses, including drinking water, commercial shipping, hydroelectric power generation, agriculture, ecosystem health, industry, fishing, recreational boating and shoreline property.

Supporting facts and figures

Allocation by core responsibility:

Allocation by core responsibility:

Operating

Shared water resources management

902,755

Grand total

902,755

Allocation by standard object:

Objects of expenditure

Total

1 – Personnel

44,945

02 – Transportation and communications

10,000

03 – Information

5,000

04 – Professional and special services

835,000

05 – Rentals

5,810

06 – Purchased repair and maintenance

n/a

07 – Utilities, materials and supplies

2,000

08 – Acquisition of land, buildings and works

n/a

09 – Acquisition of machinery and equipment

n/a

10 – Transfer payments

n/a

12 – Other subsidies and payments

n/a

Total

902,755

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