The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Tourism, Official Languages and Francophonie, today welcomes Louise Mushikiwabo, Secretary General of La Francophonie, to Ottawa, Ontario. The two will discuss a number of issues, notably, strengthening the presence of the French language in the digital sphere and the values that unite Canada and La Francophonie. The Secretary General will also meet with Prime Minister Trudeau as well as Franco-Ontarian women entrepreneurs to promote the important role of women's entrepreneurship in the economy as well.
The Minister will also use this opportunity to highlight the appointment of Ambassador Isabelle Hudon as the personal representative of the Prime Minister of Canada for La Francophonie, commonly known as the sherpa for La Francophonie. In this role, she will promote Canada's position and priority interests with the Secretary General of La Francophonie, the International Organisation of La Francophonie (IOF) and its operators, as well as all its members. Ms Hudon has been chose to succeed Lise Filiatraut, Canadian Ambassador to Sénégal.
"I am delighted that Isabelle Hudon has been appointed sherpa for La Francophonie. Ms. Hudon is doing remarquable work serving Canadians as an ambassador. She has promoted Canada's values of equality and diversity in France, which she will be able to continue in her new role. I thank Lise Filiatrault who will continue to contribute to our discussions and share her passion for Francophone Africa."
- Hon. Mélanie Joly, Minister of Tourism, Official Languages and La Francophonie
"It's an honour for me to represent Canada at La Francophonie as Sherpa and continue the tradition of Canadian leadership at the International Organization of La Francophonie. Canada is a key player in this space comprised of 300 million French speakers, particularly in the promotion of democracy, human rights, gender equality and governance. "
- Isabelle Hudon, Canadian Ambassador to France, Sherpa for La Francophonie
Quick facts
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An active member and second-largest major donor to the IOF after France, Canada is a key actor in the implementation of the political, economic and cooperation mandates of La Francophonie, as well as a leader in the ongoing process of empowering the institutions of La Francophonie with the tools they need to allow them to achieve more progress in the areas of efficiency and transparency and to show better results.
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Canada contributes to the outreach of La Francophonie and francophone communities in Canada.
