This week, the Honourable Gregor Robertson, Minister of Housing and Infrastructure and Minister responsible for Pacific Economic Development Canada, led Canada's delegation at the ministerial segment of the United Nations High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development 2026, accompanied by Annie Koutrakis, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Jobs and Families, where he underscored Canada's commitment to bold action on the shared values embodied in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The High-Level Political Forum serves as the main UN platform for sustainable development, playing a central role in the follow-up and review of the 2030 Agenda at the global level. This year's forum convened ministers, senior government officials, representatives from international organizations, civil society and other stakeholders to assess global progress and share best practices in sustainable development.
During the forum, Minister Robertson presented Canada's national statement, where he emphasized resilience through multilateral cooperation, the importance of intergenerational inclusion and practical domestic and international actions to accelerate progress on the goals. At Canada's official side event on "Cities that Work for People: Connecting Social Policy and Infrastructure for Resilient Communities," he addressed the importance of inclusive urban planning, sustainability and social infrastructure in building thriving communities. Additionally, Minister Robertson met with investors to highlight investment opportunities in advance of the first-ever Canada Investment Summit.
Canada's 2026 Annual Report on the Sustainable Development Goals helped inform participation at the event, providing an opportunity to share insights with global partners and highlight the collective efforts of Canadians of all ages and backgrounds who are advancing the SDGs at home and abroad. It highlights major federal initiatives and investments that address key challenges and advance the SDGs by building and strengthening housing, infrastructure and communities in Canada, including Build Canada Homes, the Canada Public Transit Fund and the Build Communities Strong Fund. The report also spotlights Canada's international contributions to sustainable development, including working with partners to address shared global challenges, reduce poverty, and advance human rights.
