logo

Minister Hajdu represents Canada at the UN High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development Français

Cision Canada5 days ago
NEW YORK, July 24, 2025 /CNW/ - The Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Jobs and Families and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario, concluded a series of engagements at the United Nations High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development in New York City from July 21 to 23, 2025. The Forum is an opportunity for UN countries to gather and discuss progress made toward the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These goals are a collective call to action to end poverty, protect the planet, and build a just, peaceful and inclusive world for all.
Minister Hajdu presented Canada's National Statement on the SDGs, reaffirming our country's work towards international collaboration and in advancing the 2030 Agenda. Minister Hajdu emphasized our collective duty to work with national and international partners to drive meaningful change and build a more peaceful, inclusive and prosperous world, for the next generations.
On July 22, Minister Hajdu participated in the High-Level Dialogue on Adequate Housing for All, alongside Bob Rae, Canada's Permanent Representative to the United Nations in New York, in his capacity as President of the UN Economic and Social Council. This session highlighted Canada's focus on housing as a key strategy for reducing poverty, promoting equity, and fostering an inclusive society.
On the Forum's final day, Minister Hajdu hosted Canada's official side event on inclusive and sustainable jobs. This event brought together diverse stakeholders to explore how digital education, disability inclusion, and private sector engagement can help build more inclusive economies.
While at the UN, Minister Hajdu and Alexei Buzu, Minister of Labour and Social Protection for the Republic of Moldova, also signed a Declaration of Intent to establish a Canada-Moldova Social Security Agreement. This marks a key step in strengthening bilateral ties and advancing shared goals of inclusion, equity and resilience.
Canada is focused on advancing the 2030 Agenda both domestically and internationally. While the Government of Canada leads this initiative, partnerships with other orders of government, stakeholders, Indigenous Peoples, and the public are crucial for our collective success.
Quotes
"Amid global challenges, forums like the UN High Level Political Forum remind us that we are not alone, and we are stronger when we stand united. To create a fairer and more sustainable future for everyone in Canada, we are collaborating with reliable trading partners and allies around the world and championing efforts to advance the SDGs. The UN High Level Political Forum is strengthening international partnerships and securing the future for the next generations so that no one is left behind."
– The Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Jobs and Families and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario
"As we approach 2030, Canada remains steadfast in its commitment to advancing the SDGs at home and abroad. Our engagement at the HLPF reflects our belief that global cooperation is necessary to accelerate action and help shape a more sustainable, inclusive, and equitable world for everyone."
– Randeep Sarai, Secretary of State (International Development)
Quick facts
The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development is a 15-year global framework that was adopted by Canada and by all United Nations Member States in 2015. At its heart are the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which are an urgent call to action by all countries to address today's most pressing social, economic and environmental challenges through global partnership.
This year's United Nations High-Level Political Forum focused on the following five goals: SDG 3 (Good health and well-being), SDG 5 (Gender equality), SDG 8 (Decent work and economic growth), SDG 14 (Life below water) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).
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.
Canada and the Sustainable Development Goals
Moving forward together: Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

First group of Syrian refugees returns home from Lebanon under new UN plan
First group of Syrian refugees returns home from Lebanon under new UN plan

Toronto Star

time3 hours ago

  • Toronto Star

First group of Syrian refugees returns home from Lebanon under new UN plan

JDEIDET YABOUS, Syria (AP) — The first group of Syrian refugees returned home from Lebanon on Tuesday under a new plan the United Nations developed with the Lebanese government following the downfall of Bashar Assad's rule in December. Syria's uprising-turned-conflict displaced half of the country's pre-war population of 23 million over the last 14 years. Lebanon hosted an estimated 1.5 million refugees, at one point making up roughly a quarter of its six million people, with many having been smuggled across the border and unregistered with the UN.

First group of Syrian refugees returns home from Lebanon under new UN plan
First group of Syrian refugees returns home from Lebanon under new UN plan

Winnipeg Free Press

time3 hours ago

  • Winnipeg Free Press

First group of Syrian refugees returns home from Lebanon under new UN plan

JDEIDET YABOUS, Syria (AP) — The first group of Syrian refugees returned home from Lebanon on Tuesday under a new plan the United Nations developed with the Lebanese government following the downfall of Bashar Assad's rule in December. Syria's uprising-turned-conflict displaced half of the country's pre-war population of 23 million over the last 14 years. Lebanon hosted an estimated 1.5 million refugees, at one point making up roughly a quarter of its six million people, with many having been smuggled across the border and unregistered with the UN. The new plan has the UN refugee agency offering $100 in cash to each repatriated Syrian refugee and the Lebanese authorities waiving any fees or fines they owe. The UNHCR and the International Organization for Migration will provide them with buses for their return journey. The UNHCR also says it will help returning Syrians with 'cash grants, legal assistance for civil documents, psychosocial support, livelihood opportunities, and other protection services.' The strain on Lebanon as poverty spreads Lebanese authorities have repeatedly requested the repatriation of Syrian refugees over the years, a call that grew louder with the widespread poverty in the Mediterranean country and shrinking funding for aid agencies. But Syria under Assad was not yet safe for their return, according to major rights organizations. Many Syrians had also previously said the war, forced conscription under Syria's former government, and unpaid residency fines in Lebanon have held them back from returning. But Syria now has a new government under President Ahmed al-Sharaa, who led the surprise offensive that ousted Assad, and the Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam's government hopes Syrians will sign up for the joint repatriation plan. The UNHCR estimates that over 205,000 Syrians have crossed back into the country from Lebanon since December, of which at least 126,000 were confirmed to be full returns, said Abou Khaled. Thousands of Syrian refugees are ready to return home UNHCR Lebanon spokesperson Lisa Abou Khaled says about 17,000 Syrian refugees in Lebanon have already signed up to go back to their home country, though the vast majority have opted not to take the buses. Tuesday's repatriation was a 'test run,' she said, with only 72 people, mostly going to Syria's third-largest city of Homs and rural Damascus. Syrian border authorities greeted the returning refugees with roses and water bottles, as they filled out forms after exiting the bus. Some took pictures in front of Syria's new green flag. Among them was Rasha, who told The Associated Press she was elated to return for the first time in 14 years. 'We're going home with nothing, but it's easier than having to keep paying rent,' she said, using only her first name. She and her husband are heading to Homs. Before, she wouldn't leave because her sons were at the age of conscription, which she described as 'sending your son to his death.' They also couldn't afford to pay all the fines for overstaying in Lebanon for 14 years. Raghad fled to Lebanon when she was 10 years old after her father was killed in Homs, and is returning for the first time to her family home with her siblings and their children. 'We're hoping to fix it so we can live there for a bit,' she said. 'I can't imagine myself living there without Dad.' A humanitarian crisis still exists in Syria Despite Washington lifting decades-long sanctions, Syria is still reeling from an economic crisis that has pulled the vast majority of its population into poverty. It's still also trying to rebuild hundreds of billions of dollars in battered infrastructure after the conflict. Abou Khaled, the UNHCR Lebanon spokesperson, warns that this might hinder long-term returns if not resolved soon. 'We must acknowledge that there is a real humanitarian crisis in Syria that remains very significant,' she explained. 'Millions of people will need urgent help to be able to return in a sustainable way.' — Chehayeb reported from Beirut.

Canada pledges $30M in Gaza aid, $10M for Palestinian Authority work toward statehood
Canada pledges $30M in Gaza aid, $10M for Palestinian Authority work toward statehood

Toronto Sun

time16 hours ago

  • Toronto Sun

Canada pledges $30M in Gaza aid, $10M for Palestinian Authority work toward statehood

Canada is not joining France in recognizing a Palestinian state Published Jul 28, 2025 • 4 minute read Canadian Foreign Ministe Anita Anand speaks at a conference on a two-state solution for Israel and the Palestinians at UN headquarters on July 28, 2025 in New York City. Photo by TIMOTHY A. CLARY / AFP via Getty Images OTTAWA — While Canada is not joining France in recognizing a Palestinian state, it is funding the Palestinian Authority's preparations to lead a globally recognized country that includes Gaza and the West Bank. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. THIS CONTENT IS RESERVED FOR SUBSCRIBERS ONLY Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada. Unlimited online access to articles from across Canada with one account. Get exclusive access to the Toronto Sun ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition that you can share, download and comment on. Enjoy insights and behind-the-scenes analysis from our award-winning journalists. Support local journalists and the next generation of journalists. Daily puzzles including the New York Times Crossword. SUBSCRIBE TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada. Unlimited online access to articles from across Canada with one account. Get exclusive access to the Toronto Sun ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition that you can share, download and comment on. Enjoy insights and behind-the-scenes analysis from our award-winning journalists. Support local journalists and the next generation of journalists. Daily puzzles including the New York Times Crossword. REGISTER / SIGN IN TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience. Access articles from across Canada with one account. Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments. Enjoy additional articles per month. Get email updates from your favourite authors. THIS ARTICLE IS FREE TO READ REGISTER TO UNLOCK. Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience. Access articles from across Canada with one account Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments Enjoy additional articles per month Get email updates from your favourite authors Don't have an account? Create Account Ottawa is also adding $30 million to its humanitarian funding for desperate Palestinians in the Gaza Strip. 'The Palestinian question is at the heart of any hope for long-term stability in the Middle East,' Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand told a major United Nations conference Monday in New York. 'A workable Palestinian state needs legitimate, democratic governance that serves all Palestinian people.' The conference was convened by France and Saudi Arabia to find ways to preserve the two-state solution. Canada has for decades been among those calling for the eventual creation of a Palestinian country that would exist in peace alongside Israel. Ottawa and other countries have increasingly expressed the concern that the Israeli government is trying to make a Palestinian state impossible. Some Israeli ministers have called for the population of Gaza to be concentrated in a small area or resettled to other countries. Your noon-hour look at what's happening in Toronto and beyond. By signing up you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc. Please try again This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. Read More Anand highlighted concerns about Palestinian governance in her remarks to dozens of her counterparts gathered in New York. The Palestinian Authority currently controls large parts of the West Bank through the Fatah party. Hamas has full control of Gaza. Neither territory has held an election since 2006, and polls by the anti-corruption Aman Coalition think tank have found widespread concerns about corruption in both governments. Anand said Hamas can't have a role in governing a Palestinian state, while the Palestinian Authority must undergo 'comprehensive reforms necessary to govern Gaza and the West Bank.' This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. She announced Canada will spend $10 million this year 'to accelerate reform and capacity-building for the Palestinian Authority.' She also announced aid funding for Palestinians in Gaza. 'For this critical aid to reach those in need, humanitarian partners must be granted safe and unhindered access to civilians in Gaza,' Anand said. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Sunday that only a 'minimal' amount of aid is being allowed into the territory, and rejected the assertion of multiple international organizations that starvation is happening in Gaza. Earlier in the day, Anand said the decades-long conflict is being driven by the duelling narratives through which Israelis and Palestinians perceive the conflict, and that peace requires a shared reality. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. She also called for Hamas to release its hostages and for Israel to stop 'relentless settlement expansion' in the West Bank. 'Peace is not only about borders and agreements. It is also about shared stories and understanding that humanize all sides and foster trust,' Anand said. Ottawa is co-leading an initiative with Qatar and Mexico aimed at finding ways to build that momentum. 'This moment demands political courage and resolve, and we must stand together and choose a different path, one that leads toward a sustainable and a just solution,' Anand said. The Trump administration criticized the conference. U.S. State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce called it 'an unproductive and ill-timed' event that amounts to a 'publicity stunt' that could compromise talks for a ceasefire in Gaza. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. The U.S. argued the conference will prolong the war and embolden Hamas, calling it 'a slap in the face to the victims of Oct. 7.' U.S. President Donald Trump pushed Netanyahu on Monday to allow more aid into Gaza. Earlier Monday, Prime Minister Mark Carney said Ottawa will work with its peers on recognizing a future Palestinian state 'that does not include Hamas in any role.' At a news conference in Prince Edward Island, he accused Israel and its settlers of a 'lack of respect' for 'the territorial integrity of Palestine, in the West Bank.' Carney referred to the area as Palestine instead of the 'Palestinian territories,' the term that Canadian government officials almost always use. He said Canadians 'deplore the scale of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza' and also 'condemned what has caused this situation. It starts with Hamas and the deplorable terrorist attacks of Oct. 7,' 2023. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. The Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs welcomed Carney's rejection of a role for Hamas in governing a Palestinian state. 'The path forward begins with sustained pressure on Hamas to release all Israeli hostages and ensure that no actions embolden Hamas to continue its campaign of violence,' wrote CEO Noah Shack. He added that Canada should 'work with international partners to disarm Hamas and ultimately remove them from Gaza and the West Bank.' The Trudeau government changed Canada's policy on Palestine statehood last November, saying that Ottawa could offer recognition before peace talks conclude instead of first requiring a successful peace deal with Israel. Carney said in June that there must be 'a Zionist, if you will, Palestinian state that recognizes the right of Israel to exist.' MLB Golf Toronto & GTA World Celebrity

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store