Statement
February 15, 2019 – Ottawa, Ontario - Global Affairs Canada
The Honourable Chrystia Freeland, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of International Development, today released the following statement:
"Canada is a strong supporter of Ukraine and has committed up to $24 million to support electoral reforms, election observation, gender equality and inclusive governance in Ukraine.
"This week, CANADEM officially launched Mission Canada, with 50 Canadian long-term observers beginning their work on the ground in Ukraine. The Canadians will observe all aspects of the electoral process leading up to, during, and following the presidential elections in Ukraine, including monitoring the participation of women, internally displaced persons and minorities in the process. More Canadian short-term observers are planned to join them in the weeks to come.
"Canada is also providing approximately $2.8M for initiatives that will counter the negative impact of disinformation activities in association with the Ukrainian elections".
"Canada stands for democracy around the world. Electoral observation missions are key contributors to the strengthening of democracy. We will continue to support Ukraine in its efforts to implement reforms, including by hosting the Ukraine Reform Conference this summer."
