Canada and Belgium have enjoyed long-standing bilateral relations for many years based on friendship and trust, as well as shared values of freedom, democracy, human rights, openness and tolerance.
Today, the Honourable Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Minister of Veterans Affairs Canada and Associate Minister of National Defence, met with Ludivine Dedonder, Belgium's Minister of Defence, during her visit to Brussels.
The ministers had the opportunity to discuss common priorities relating to the services and supports each country provides to current and former military members and their families.
While discussing considerations around gender and diversity in the military and Veteran community, the ministers noted efforts being made to ensure the culture within the armed forces is one which is inclusive of its diverse members.
The ministers spoke of their countries' desire to ensure the health and well-being of Veterans, especially as they transition out of the military and how the transition from the military often begins at recruitment.
Touching on the upcoming 2025 Invictus Games, the first hybrid winter games which will be held in British Columbia, Minister Petitpas Taylor and Minister Dedonder emphasized the value of supporting participants in these games and the value of sport as a healing tool.
They exchanged ideas on how lessons learned from their respective departments could be used to reinforce our shared goals of supporting, recognizing and meeting the health and well-being needs of all Veterans.
At the close of the meeting, the two ministers welcomed the opportunity to meet again, in Canada.
