The Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, met with members of the Lebanese-Canadian community in Montréal, Québec, today.
The Minister took the opportunity to offer his deepest condolences and support to members of the community whose family and friends have been affected by this tragedy.
The Minister and community members discussed the situation in Lebanon in the aftermath of the devastating explosion in the port of Beirut on August 4, 2020. The dialogue focused on how Canada can best help the country not only through this difficult time but also in achieving much-needed economic and political reforms.
As many members of the community raised the issue of governance in Lebanon, Minister Champagne reassured them that Canada will continue to support the people of Lebanon in their demands for an effective, representative and accountable government. He also reaffirmed Canada's support through humanitarian assistance and the Canadian task force on Lebanon.
Quotes
"I thank the Lebanese-Canadian community for their time, generosity and solidarity. Together we will be here for the Lebanese people through the recovery and in achieving the reforms they seek for their country."
- François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs
Quick facts
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The Lebanese community is significant in Canada, comprising more than 250,000 people of Lebanese descent.
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Canada is providing over $365.5 million in international assistance to Lebanon between 2016-2021 as part of Canada's Middle East Strategy.
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The Government of Canada is also providing $30 million in assistance following the explosion to help trusted partners address immediate humanitarian needs and support recovery efforts. As part of the $30 million in assistance, Canada is matching donations made by Canadians through the Lebanon Matching Fund.
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To support the delivery of consular services and answer immigration questions, Canada is setting up a task force on Lebanon to support the delivery of services and answer immigration questions. Lebanese citizens in Canada are allowed to extend their stay in Canada on a temporary basis if they are unable to return home because of the explosion.
