CANADA latest

Statement by the Prime Minister in response to chemical agent poisonings in the United Kingdom

March 15, 2018
Ottawa, Ontario

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement in response to the poisonings by nerve agent in the United Kingdom:

“Today, we offer our close friend and NATO ally, the United Kingdom, our sympathy regarding the despicable poisoning of Sergei and Yulia Skripal and Detective Sergeant Nick Bailey.

“Canada is unwavering in its commitment to the United Kingdom. The United Kingdom can count on Canada’s full support in efforts to hold Russia to account for this unacceptable and unlawful behaviour.

"Canada has offered assistance ‎through many points of contact with the British government since this attack. Minister of Foreign Affairs Chrystia Freeland, Minister of National Defence Harjit Singh Sajjan, and Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness Ralph Goodale have reached out to their counterparts and expressed their full support.

“We will work closely with the United Kingdom, as well as with our international partners and through international institutions, to address this very serious situation.‎

“As always, we stand with the United Kingdom to protect and uphold the safety and security of all citizens.”

Prime Minister announces the appointment of a Senator

March 15, 2018
Ottawa, Ontario

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced that the Governor General has appointed Yvonne Boyer as an independent Senator to fill a vacancy for Ontario.

A member of the Métis Nation of Ontario, Dr. Boyer has enjoyed a distinguished career as a lawyer, professor, and researcher. Throughout her career, she has worked tirelessly to examine and address the inequalities that exist between Indigenous Peoples and non-Indigenous people in health care services and delivery.

Dr. Boyer was recommended by the Independent Advisory Board for Senate Appointments and chosen using the merit-based process open to all Canadians. This process ensures Senators are independent, reflect Canada’s diversity, and are able to tackle the broad range of challenges and opportunities facing the country.

Quote

“I am delighted to welcome Parliament’s newest independent Senator, Yvonne Boyer. I am confident that Parliament will benefit from Dr. Boyer’s knowledge and experience, and that she will be a great ambassador for Ontario, the Métis Nation, and all of Canada.”
– Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada

Quick Facts

• Dr. Boyer will be the first Senator from Ontario to identify as Indigenous. She is a member of the Métis Nation of Ontario with ancestral roots in the Métis Nation-Saskatchewan and the Red River.
• There have been 33 appointments to the Senate made on the advice of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
• Under the Canadian Constitution, the Governor General appoints individuals to the Senate. By convention, Senators are appointed on the advice of the Prime Minister.
• Since 2016, the selection process for Senators has been opened to allow all Canadians to apply. Candidate submissions are reviewed by the Independent Advisory Board for Senate Appointments, which provides the Prime Minister with recommendations. From the recommended pool of candidates, the Prime Minister selects the individuals he then recommends to the Governor General for appointment to the Senate.
• Canadians may now apply for a Senate seat at anytime. For the next applications review cycle, the Independent Advisory Board for Senate Appointments will consider applications received by April 3, 2018, to fill vacancies in 10 provinces and territories.
• The Independent Advisory Board for Senate Appointments is guided by public, transparent, non-partisan and merit-based criteria to identify highly qualified candidates.
• Once appointed by the Governor General and summoned to the Senate, the new Senators join their peers to examine and revise legislation, investigate national issues, and represent regional, provincial and minority interests –important functions in a modern democracy.

Biographical Notes

• Yvonne Boyer

Associated Links

• Frequently Asked Questions – Senate appointments process
• Independent Advisory Board for Senate Appointments
• Minister of Democratic Institutions announces improvements to the Senate appointments process and launches call for applications
• Minister of Democratic Institutions announces launch of the permanent phase of the Independent Senate Appointments Process
• Minister of Democratic Institutions announces establishment of the Independent Advisory Board for Senate Appointments

Itinerary for Thursday, March 15, 2018

March 15, 2018
Ottawa, Ontario

Itinerary for the Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, for Thursday, March 15, 2018:

Florida, U.S.

Personal        

CANADA news

UPDATE - Itinerary for Wednesday, March 14, 2018

March 13, 2018
Ottawa, Ontario

Itinerary for the Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, for Wednesday, March 14, 2018:

Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario

6:45 a.m. The Prime Minister will meet with the workers of Algoma.

Gate 2
Algoma
105 West Street

Note to media:

• Pooled photo opportunity

8:30 a.m. The Prime Minister will participate in a brief tour of Algoma’s Direct Strip Production Complex.

Algoma
105 West Street

Notes to media:

• Pooled photo opportunity of the tour
• Attire: Long pants, long sleeve shirts, flat soled, closed shoes must be worn. Appropriate personal protective equipment will be provided.

10:30 a.m. The Prime Minister will participate in a roundtable with steel industry leaders.

Mezzanine
The Machine Shop
83 Huron Street

Notes to media:

• Photo opportunity at the beginning of the roundtable
• Media are asked to arrive no later than 10 a.m.at the Mill Steakhouse entrance.

Regina, Saskatchewan

Note: All times local.

1:40 p.m. The Prime Minister will meet with the mayor of Regina, Michael Fougere.

Regina City Hall
2476 Victoria Ave

Notes to media:

• Photo opportunity at the beginning of the meeting
• Media are asked to arrive no later than 1 p.m. in the lobby.

2:20 p.m. The Prime Minister will participate in a tour and meet with workers of EVRAZ Regina.

Mill 5
EVRAZ Regina
100 Armour Road

Notes to media:

• Pooled photo opportunity
• Attire: Long pants, long sleeve shirts, flat soled, closed shoes must be worn. Appropriate personal protective equipment will be provided.

3:30 p.m. The Prime Minister will participate in a roundtable with steel industry leaders.

Training Room
The Turvey Center
100 Armour Road

Notes to media:

• Photo opportunity at the beginning of the roundtable
• Media are asked to arrive no later than 3 p.m. in the lobby of the Turvey Center.

4:20 p.m. The Prime Minister will hold a brief media availability.

Roll Shop
EVRAZ Regina

Note to media:

• Open coverage

Media appearances

• An interview with the Prime Minister will air on Country 104.3 and on KiSS 100.5 at 8:30 a.m.
• An interview with the Prime Minister will air on Bloomberg TV at 4:45 p.m (CST).

UPDATE - Itinerary for Wednesday, March 14, 2018

March 13, 2018
Ottawa, Ontario

Itinerary for the Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, for Wednesday, March 14, 2018:

Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario

6:45 a.m. The Prime Minister will meet with the workers of Algoma.

Gate 2
Algoma
105 West Street

Note to media:

• Pooled photo opportunity

8:30 a.m. The Prime Minister will participate in a brief tour of Algoma’s Direct Strip Production Complex.

Algoma
105 West Street

Notes to media:

• Pooled photo opportunity of the tour
• Attire: Long pants, long sleeve shirts, flat soled, closed shoes must be worn. Appropriate personal protective equipment will be provided.

10:30 a.m. The Prime Minister will participate in a roundtable with steel industry leaders.

Mezzanine
The Machine Shop
83 Huron Street

Notes to media:

• Photo opportunity at the beginning of the roundtable
• Media are asked to arrive no later than 10 a.m.at the Mill Steakhouse entrance.

Regina, Saskatchewan

Note: All times local.

1:40 p.m. The Prime Minister will meet with the mayor of Regina, Michael Fougere.

Regina City Hall
2476 Victoria Ave

Notes to media:

• Photo opportunity at the beginning of the meeting
• Media are asked to arrive no later than 1 p.m. in the lobby.

2:20 p.m. The Prime Minister will participate in a tour and meet with workers of EVRAZ Regina.

Mill 5
EVRAZ Regina
100 Armour Road

Notes to media:

• Pooled photo opportunity
• Attire: Long pants, long sleeve shirts, flat soled, closed shoes must be worn. Appropriate personal protective equipment will be provided.

3:30 p.m. The Prime Minister will participate in a roundtable with steel industry leaders.

Training Room
The Turvey Center
100 Armour Road

Notes to media:

• Photo opportunity at the beginning of the roundtable
• Media are asked to arrive no later than 3 p.m. in the lobby of the Turvey Center.

4:20 p.m. The Prime Minister will hold a brief media availability.

Roll Shop
EVRAZ Regina

Note to media:

• Open coverage

Media appearances

• An interview with the Prime Minister will air on Country 104.3 and on KiSS 100.5 at 8:30 a.m.

Itinerary for Wednesday, March 14, 2018

March 13, 2018
Ottawa, Ontario

Itinerary for the Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, for Wednesday, March 14, 2018:

Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario

6:45 a.m. The Prime Minister will meet with the workers of Algoma.

Gate 2
Algoma
105 West Street

Note to media:

• Pooled photo opportunity

8:30 a.m. The Prime Minister will participate in a brief tour of Algoma’s Direct Strip Production Complex.

Algoma
105 West Street

Notes to media:

• Pooled photo opportunity of the tour
• Attire: Long pants, long sleeve shirts, flat soled, closed shoes must be worn. Appropriate personal protective equipment will be provided.

10:30 a.m. The Prime Minister will participate in a roundtable with steel industry leaders.

Mezzanine
The Machine Shop
83 Huron Street

Notes to media:

• Photo opportunity at the beginning of the roundtable
• Media are asked to arrive no later than 10 a.m.at the Mill Steakhouse entrance.

Regina, Saskatchewan

Note: All times local.

1:40 p.m. The Prime Minister will meet with the mayor of Regina, Michael Fougere.

Regina City Hall
2476 Victoria Ave

Notes to media:

• Photo opportunity at the beginning of the meeting
• Media are asked to arrive no later than 1 p.m. in the lobby.

2:20 p.m. The Prime Minister and the Premier of Saskatchewan, Scott Moe, will participate in a tour and meet with workers of EVRAZ Regina.

Mill 5
EVRAZ Regina
100 Armour Road

Notes to media:

• Pooled photo opportunity
• Attire: Long pants, long sleeve shirts, flat soled, closed shoes must be worn. Appropriate personal protective equipment will be provided.

3:30 p.m. The Prime Minister will participate in a roundtable with steel industry leaders.

Training Room
The Turvey Center
100 Armour Road

Notes to media:

• Photo opportunity at the beginning of the roundtable
• Media are asked to arrive no later than 3 p.m. in the lobby of the Turvey Center.

4:20 p.m. The Prime Minister will hold a brief media availability.

Roll Shop
EVRAZ Regina

Note to media:

• Open coverage

Media appearances

• An interview with the Prime Minister will air on Country 104.3 at 9 a.m. and on KiSS 100.5 at noon.

CANADA news

Statement by the Prime Minister on Canada’s steel and aluminum workers and businesses

March 12, 2018
Ottawa, Ontario

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on Canada’s steel and aluminum workers and businesses:

“This week, I will travel across Canada to meet with the workers and businesses at the heart of our country’s world-class steel and aluminum industries.

“From Northern Quebec to the St. Lawrence Valley and the Great Lakes, to the ports of the east and west coasts and urban centres across the country, Canada’s steel and aluminum industries provide thousands of Canadians with good, middle class jobs and play an important role in our economy. Canada produces some of the cleanest steel and aluminum in the world thanks to our focus on new technology and cleaner sources of energy.

“We know the tremendous effort that steel and aluminum workers put in every day to provide for their families, support their communities, and build businesses that are competitive in the global market. We also know they face real challenges, including concerns around global overcapacity and our integrated North American market.

“I look forward to hearing directly from workers about how we can work together to address these issues and help our steel and aluminum industries grow and succeed.

“We will always stand up for Canadian steel and aluminum workers. This is about defending our country’s primary interests and values, so that our industries and businesses can continue to drive economic growth, and create the good, middle class jobs that we need for our future prosperity.”From the Prime Minister's Web Site (http://pm.gc.ca/)

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Statement by the Prime Minister on Commonwealth Day

March 12, 2018
Ottawa, Ontario

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on Commonwealth Day:

“Today, on Commonwealth Day, we join the citizens of the Commonwealth of Nations to celebrate our shared values and the strong bonds of cooperation and friendship that unite us.

“This year’s theme, Towards a Common Future, underscores our shared commitment to the ongoing goal of creating a better tomorrow for all.

“The Commonwealth is a voluntary association of 53 states that spans from Africa, Asia, and the Caribbean, to the Mediterranean and the Pacific. Headed by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the Commonwealth promotes the values of democracy, freedom, sustainable development, the rule of law, and human rights – especially those of women and girls. As a proud member, Canada will continue to promote and protect these values.

“On behalf of the Government of Canada, I invite all Canadians to take time today to learn more about the Commonwealth and its history.”

Itinerary for Tuesday, March 13, 2018

March 12, 2018
Ottawa, Ontario

Itinerary for the Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, for Tuesday, March 13, 2018:

Hamilton, Ontario

9:30 a.m. The Prime Minister will participate in a brief tour and meet with workers of Stelco Hamilton Works.

Stelco Hamilton Works
386 Wilcox Street

Note to media:

• Pooled photo opportunity

11:45 a.m. The Prime Minister will participate in a roundtable with steel industry leaders.

Sheraton Hamilton Hotel
116 King Street West

Notes to media:

• Photo opportunity at the beginning of the roundtable
• Media are asked to arrive no later than 11:15 a.m.

2 p.m. The Prime Minister will participate in a brief tour of the ArcelorMittal Dofasco plant. A media availability will follow.

ArcelorMittal Dofasco
1330 Burlington Street East

Notes to media:

• Pooled photo opportunity of tour
• Open coverage of media availability
• Media are asked to arrive no later than 1 p.m.
• Media must register with Amy Gringhuis (amy.gringhuis@arcelormittal.com) by 11 a.m. on Tuesday, March 13. Due to a security briefing and personal protective equipment inventory, any media that fails to register unfortunately will not be able to participate in the event.
• Attire: Long pants, long sleeve shirts, and closed toe footwear must be worn. Appropriate personal protective equipment will be provided.

CANADA latest news

Prime Minister announces new Commissioner and Administrator of Yukon

March 9, 2018
Ottawa, Ontario

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced the appointments of Angélique Bernard as the next Commissioner of Yukon and Adeline Webber as the next Administrator of the territory.

Since moving to Yukon in 1995, Angélique Bernard has worked hard to advance Francophone rights and women’s rights, making sure they have access to the services they need to thrive. A devoted member of the territory’s francophone community, she served as president of the Association franco-yukonnaise for seven years and is currently the organization’s vice-president.

Adeline Webber is a proud member of the Teslin Tlingit First Nation. She was born and raised in Whitehorse, where she spent most of her career working in the federal public service. Ms. Webber has worked diligently to advance the recognition of Indigenous women’s rights, and played an important role in the implementation of land claims and First Nation self-government agreements in the territory.

The Prime Minister took the opportunity to recognize Douglas Phillips, whose term as Commissioner ended January 31, 2018, for his long career in service to Yukoners. He also thanked the outgoing Administrator, Gerald Isaac, for his service, including his work fulfilling the legislative function of Commissioner since the position became vacant in January.

Quotes

“With her leadership experience and advocacy work, I know that Angélique Bernard will be an excellent Commissioner of Yukon. She has a deep understanding and appreciation of the diverse people who call Yukon home, and her unique perspective will be invaluable as she works to represent their best interests.”
– Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada

“Adeline Webber has dedicated much of her career to public service and has proven herself to be a champion of Indigenous Peoples. I know that the territory will benefit greatly from the experience and knowledge she will bring to the table as the Administrator of Yukon.”
– Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada

Quick facts

• Territorial Commissioners and Administrators are Governor in Council appointments.
• Territorial Commissioners fulfill many of the same duties as the Lieutenant Governor of a province. Their responsibilities include swearing in Members of the Legislative Assembly and Members of the Executive Council, opening the Legislative Assembly, and providing assent for legislation passed by the Assembly.
• Territorial Administrators act in the place of the Commissioner if the Commissioner is unable to fulfill his or her duties during an absence or illness or other situation, or when the office is vacant.

Biographical notes

• Angélique Bernard
• Adeline Webber

Prime Minister announces new Commissioner Designate of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police

March 9, 2018
Ottawa, Ontario

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced the appointment of Brenda Lucki as the new Commissioner Designate of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). This appointment is effective April 16, 2018.

A proven leader, Ms. Lucki brings with her a diverse background and the expertise needed to keep our communities safe and secure while addressing the needs of the RCMP. She will play a vital role in advancing reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples, promoting gender equity, supporting mental wellness across the RCMP, addressing workplace harassment, and protecting the civil liberties of all Canadians.

Ms. Lucki has enjoyed a long and distinguished career at the RCMP. In her nearly 32 years with the national police force, she has served in Divisions in Quebec, Ontario, Manitoba, Alberta, and Saskatchewan, worked with the United Nations in the former Yugoslavia, and helped train and select police units for the UN Civilian Police Mission in Haiti.

Since October 2016, Ms. Lucki has served as the Commanding Officer of “Depot” Division, ensuring cadets receive the best possible training – including diversity training – before they begin to serve our communities.

The Prime Minister made this announcement during an event at the RCMP Academy, “Depot” Division. On behalf of all Canadians, the Prime Minister also thanked Daniel Dubeau for assuming leadership of the RCMP after the retirement of former Commissioner Bob Paulson. Both Mr. Dubeau and Mr. Paulson were recognized for their efforts to modernize and strengthen Canada’s national police force.

Quote

“I am pleased to announce the appointment of Brenda Lucki as the 24^th Commissioner of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. She is an exceptional leader who is known for being a hard worker, a dedicated officer, and someone who is constantly looking for ways to improve the status quo. We look forward to working with her to help keep all Canadians safe.”

– Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada

Quick facts

• Ms. Lucki was chosen through the Government’s open, transparent, and merit-based appointment process.
• When Ms. Lucki takes her new post on April 16, 2018, she will be the 24^th Commissioner in the RCMP’s history, and the first woman to serve as Commissioner in a permanent role.
• Ms. Lucki has received numerous awards for her excellent service. Most notably, she is a member of the Order of Merit of the Police Forces in recognition of the work she did to improve the relationship between Indigenous communities and the RCMP in Northern Manitoba.
• In February 2016, the Government of Canada announced a new, more rigorous approach to Governor in Council appointments. To this end, selection committees are established to assess and recommend candidates for appointment to various Governor in Council positions.
• A Selection Committee for the position of Commissioner of the RCMP was established as an independent, non-partisan body whose mandate is to provide recommendations to the Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness on a list of highly qualified candidates for this position.  

Biographical notes

• Brenda Lucki

Related product

• Budget 2018: Investing to keep Canadians safe

Statement by the Prime Minister on the opening of the 2018 Paralympic Winter Games

March 9, 2018
Ottawa, Ontario

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on the opening of the 2018 Paralympic Winter Games in PyeongChang, South Korea:

“Today, as the 2018 Paralympic Winter Games open, I join with all Canadians to wish our athletes the best of luck in PyeongChang. Over the next ten days, our Paralympians will compete against the best in the world, push for the podium, and show us what is possible with hard work and determination.

“The Paralympics bring together diverse communities of people, from all over the world, who share a passion for sport and competition. Canada’s Paralympians are some of our country’s finest athletes. They have trained for years, and made incredible sacrifices, to be part of the 2018 Paralympic Winter Games. I have no doubt they will represent the best of Canada and make their mark in PyeongChang.

“To all of our Paralympians: You set a remarkable example, and inspire us all, especially our young people living with disabilities. In PyeongChang, I know you will raise the bar even higher and make us all proud.

“Go Canada!”

Reminder - Itinerary for Friday, March 9, 2018

March 8, 2018
Ottawa, Ontario

Itinerary for the Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, for Friday, March 9, 2018:

Regina, Saskatchewan

Note: All times local.

10:15 a.m. The Prime Minister will make an announcement followed by a media availability.

RCMP Heritage Centre, RCMP Academy, “Depot” Division
5907 Dewdney Avenue

Notes for media:

• Media are asked to arrive no later than 9:15 a.m. at the Fort Dufferin Guard Room
• Open coverage

12:55 p.m. The Prime Minister will visit a library and deliver remarks to highlight parental leave in Budget 2018.

George Bothwell Branch
Regina Library
2787 Gordon Road

Notes for media:

• Media should arrive no later than 12:15 p.m.
• Photo opportunity
• Open remarks

2 p.m. The Prime Minister will meet with the Premier of Saskatchewan, Scott Moe.

Saskatchewan Legislative Building
2405 Legislative Drive

Notes for media:

• Media should arrive no later than 1:30 p.m.
• Photo opportunity at the beginning of the meeting

Media appearances

7:50 a.m. An interview with the Prime Minister will air on CBC Radio One Regina, The Morning Edition.
8:18 a.m. An interview with the Prime Minister will air on CTV Regina Morning Live.
8:53 a.m. An interview with the Prime Minister will air on Global News Morning Regina.

CANADA latest

Prime Minister welcomes second report from the Canada-United States Council for Advancement of Women Entrepreneurs and Business Leaders

March 8, 2018
Ottawa, Ontario

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement to welcome the second report from the Canada-United States Council for Advancement of Women Entrepreneurs and Business Leaders:

“I am pleased to welcome today, on International Women’s Day, the Canada-United States Council for Advancement of Women Entrepreneurs and Business Leaders’ second report, which explores how we can expand women’s role in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

“This report highlights the important work that we all need to do – businesses, governments, and educational institutions – around education, promotion, mentorship and empowerment so more women have the opportunities they need to thrive in STEM on both sides of the border.

“We have seen incredible progress in recent years as more and more women entered the field and started changing the game, but more progress is needed. I thank the Council for their thoughtful recommendations on what can and needs to be done to address the specific barriers that girls and women face, and to eliminate the gender gap that continues to exist.

“As underscored in Budget 2018, Canada will continue to be a strong supporter of openness and diversity in STEM as we know how important it is for the future of our communities, our environment, our health, and our economy.”

Statement by the Prime Minister on International Women’s Day

March 8, 2018
Ottawa, Ontario

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on International Women’s Day:

“Today, on International Women’s Day, we celebrate the achievements of women everywhere and reaffirm our collective commitment to gender equality.

“This year’s theme, #MyFeminism, reminds us that everyone has the power to lead and carry us closer to gender equality. It also recognizes feminists, from early suffragettes to activists today, who have paved the way towards justice and equality, and worked tirelessly to advance the rights of women and people with diverse gender identities. Their vision and determination have brought us a long way, but we still have a long way to go.

“Around the world and here in Canada, women continue to face barriers to achieving their full potential – from discrimination, to harassment and gender-based violence, to a lack of opportunity, freedom, and support. Not all women experience the same challenges, and certain women and girls, including Indigenous women and others whose identities are historically marginalized, face particular and disproportionate obstacles.

“None of us can move forward if half of us are held back. That is why this year, the Government of Canada released a historic federal budget that, for the first time in Canadian history, puts gender equality at its core. Budget 2018 has gone through a full gender-based analysis plus. This approach factors in the lived experience of women – half of our population and workforce – and looks closely at how different groups of women, men, and gender-diverse people may experience decisions and policies.

“Budget 2018 will make a concrete difference in the lives of women of all backgrounds, in communities across Canada. It lays the groundwork to close the gender wage gap, and promotes equality by helping more parents take parental leave. It includes investments to support women entrepreneurs and women-owned business, help women enter and succeed in the trades, and end gender-based violence, including on university campuses.

“Beyond our borders, Budget 2018 provides for major new investments – $2 billion over five years – to strengthen the impact of the Feminist International Assistance Policy, which puts the empowerment of women and girls at the centre of all our international assistance. Advancing gender equality and women’s empowerment is also one of the five key themes of Canada’s 2018 G7 Presidency. To that end, we announced yesterday the members of the G7 Gender Equality Advisory Council, chaired by Isabelle Hudon, Canada’s Ambassador to France, and Melinda Gates, Co-chair of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. This new council will recommend concrete actions on gender equality and women’s empowerment across all areas of the G7’s work.

“Every single one of us – no matter our gender identity – has a role to play in achieving gender equality. On International Women’s Day, and every day, let us celebrate women’s contributions, stand up for women’s rights, and listen to women’s voices. Together, we can build a world where women and girls no longer face high walls and glass ceilings, and are free to realize their full potential.”