Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, Filippo Grandi.
Prime Minister Trudeau and High Commissioner Grandi discussed the unprecedented nature of the current global refugee crisis, which is fuelled by more intense and longer lasting conflicts and the growing effects of climate change. The Prime Minister recognized the valuable role that the High Commissioner and his office (UNHCR) play in providing protection and humanitarian assistance to refugees and other forcibly displaced people.
Prime Minister Trudeau expressed his concern over the growing humanitarian impacts arising from the situation in the Middle East and acknowledged the important role that the UNHCR is playing in responding to the needs of those forcibly displaced in both Lebanon and Syria. The two leaders also discussed the human dimension of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, including its impacts on internally displaced people and refugees. Additionally, Prime Minister Trudeau expressed his concern over the humanitarian impacts of the crisis in Sudan and underscored Canada’s support for those affected by it.
The Prime Minister strongly underscored Canada’s commitment to the UNHCR and its support for the organization’s work to make a positive difference in the lives of refugees. Prime Minister Trudeau thanked the High Commissioner for the UNHCR’s dedication to protecting the most vulnerable in difficult circumstances.
The two leaders reaffirmed the strong partnership between Canada and the UNHCR, and they agreed to stay in close contact.