Yesterday, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Moussa Faki Mahamat, who was visiting Canada for the second High-Level Dialogue between Canada and the African Union Commission. The Prime Minister was accompanied by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mélanie Joly, and the Minister of International Development, Ahmed Hussen.
The Prime Minister commended the Chairperson for his support in recent years in fostering the relationship between Canada and the African Union (AU). The two leaders underscored the strengthened ties between Canada and Africa through their constructive partnership and the progress made since the first High-Level Dialogue in 2022. The Prime Minister reiterated Canada’s commitment to being a trusted partner for Africa, responsive to its interests and aspirations, and more resolved than ever to advance our shared interests.
Prime Minister Trudeau reaffirmed that Canada will increase its activities in Africa, with a focus on economic co-operation. The leaders discussed new initiatives launched by Canada to increase its diplomatic presence, including through the creation of a full High Commission in Zambia and a full Embassy in Benin; to strengthen economic and trade relations, including through a trade mission; and to increase engagement with the African diaspora. They also reiterated their commitment to the AU’s Agenda 2063, particularly with respect to empowering African youth and reducing poverty.
The Prime Minister welcomed the AU’s work to promote peace and security, which are essential to economic prosperity and the protection of human rights. The two leaders expressed concern over the crisis in Sudan and its impact on the local population, and they called for an immediate end to hostilities. Prime Minister Trudeau reiterated Canada’s commitment to supporting its humanitarian partners and civil society organizations in Sudan, including those supporting women’s participation in the peace process. Prime Minister Trudeau and Chairperson Faki also discussed the political and security situation in West Africa and highlighted their commitment to working together to strengthen regional stability. Finally, the leaders discussed the global impact of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, including the worsening food crisis in Africa and elsewhere.
Prime Minister Trudeau welcomed the active and dynamic role that Africa continues to play on the world stage. He highlighted the AU’s first participation in a G20 Summit, this year in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, as a full member of the G20, following its accession in 2023. The two leaders looked forward to continued regular engagement between Canada and the African Union Commission to maintain momentum and continue advancing shared priorities, including in the context of Canada’s Presidency of the G7 next year.