Today, Global Affairs Canada issued the following statement:
"As we mark Africa Day, we join partners across the African continent and around the world in celebrating 62 years since the founding of the Organization of African Unity-now the African Union. This anniversary, celebrated with the theme Revisiting Our History, Shaping Our Future, is a tribute to Africa's vision and leadership in shaping its future.
"Canada reaffirms its commitment to deepening its people-to-people ties and strengthening its commercial relations and partnerships with institutions and countries across the African continent.
"In this spirit, Canada recently launched its first Africa Strategy to drive economic prosperity and security to the benefit of Canadians and Africans alike. Central to this work is strengthening economic cooperation with Africa-one of the fastest-growing economic regions in the world-while continuing to support sustainable development, promote peace and security and build more equitable multilateral systems.
"As fellow members of the G20, Canada and the African Union will work together to address mutual opportunities and concerns, including during South Africa's G20 presidency this year.
"We are committed to deepening our partnerships with African countries and the African Union to build a future where Canada and Africa thrive together. Our vision is clear: a brighter, more inclusive and prosperous future for generations to come."
