On June 4, President Sahle-Work Zewde met with Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada, in Vancouver, to discuss various issues of mutual concern.
The two leaders spoke of their shared commitment to advancing women, peace and security and support for the Elsie Initiative.
They noted the deep and warm relationship between Ethiopia and Canada, reflected in strong people-to-people ties and shared values of diversity and inclusion, particularly in the context of federalism.
They discussed the importance of investing in grassroots women’s organizations to drive lasting change and welcomed the launch of the Equality Fund.
They discussed the importance of investing in infrastructure to support growth and change as well as looked forward to strengthening bilateral cooperation and committed to staying in close contact.
President Sahle-Work commended Canada’s stronger partnership with Ethiopia, including at difficult times, and expressed the government’s commitment to strengthen its economic cooperation with Canada in particular.
Prime minister Trudeau expressed his appreciation for the President’s attendance at Women Deliver and for her leadership on advancing gender equality for Ethiopians.
He noted Ethiopia’s continued commitment to building peace in the Horn of Africa, making a substantial contribution to stability and prosperity in the region.
Prime Minister Trudeau welcomed the recent significant reforms and transformation in Ethiopia and took note of the elections planned for 2020.
