Statement by Minister of Foreign Affairs on Ministerial Conference of La Francophonie

The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement at the conclusion of the 40th extraordinary session of the Ministerial Conference of La Francophonie, which took place in Paris on March 16, 2022:

“Canada, represented by Isabelle Hudon, personal representative of the Prime Minister of Canada for La Francophonie, actively participated in the conference to promote the Canadian vision of a diverse and inclusive Francophonie, centred on the protection and promotion of the French language as well as the defence of peace, democracy and human rights.

“This extraordinary session was particularly important as the world is experiencing a crisis. The invasion of Ukraine, an observer member of La Francophonie, by the armed forces of President Putin, goes against the values ​​of peace and solidarity that are the foundation of La Francophonie. These values, to which its members adhere, are enshrined in the Charter La Francophonie and are at the heart of its actions.

“Canada commends the members of the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie for speaking out against the military aggression ordered by President Putin against Ukraine. The resolution adopted yesterday by consensus condemns in the strongest terms the invasion, which constitutes an attack on international law and on the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine, and which also affects other member countries of La Francophonie.

“This resolution signals that President Putin’s attack on Ukraine is also a direct violation of the Charter of the United Nations, according to which all of its members must refrain ‘from the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state’. Members of La Francophonie are also calling for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire, the withdrawal by Russia of its military forces, and call for a peaceful and speedy settlement of the ongoing conflict.

“In recent weeks, Canada has advocated for a resolution that unequivocally condemns President Putin’s invasion of Ukraine and its devastating impact on civilian populations, including women and children.

“As the second-largest international organization, La Francophonie has a strong voice on the world stage and can contribute to ongoing diplomatic efforts to find a solution to the current crisis.

“Together with its allies and partners, Canada will continue to act decisively in support of the sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence of Ukraine and, by extension, promoting the principles of peace, democracy and human rights that are cherished by La Francophonie.”