Minister Bibeau to travel to Madagascar to participate in 16th Francophonie Summit

By Department of Foreign Affairs Canada

The Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of International Development and La Francophonie, will travel to Antananarivo, Madagascar, to take part in the 32nd session of the Ministerial Conference of La Francophonie, which will be held on November 23 and 24, 2016. In addition to participating in the conference’s proceedings, she will meet with partners of projects funded by Canada and will hold discussions with representatives of various organizations.

Minister Bibeau will then join Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to take part in the 16th Francophonie Summit on November 26 and 27. This summit will give Canada the opportunity to promote priority themes, such as the empowerment of women and girls, green and inclusive economic growth, and peace and security. Quotes

“The countries of La Francophonie are facing some significant challenges, such as the population boom in Africa, climate change that is threatening food security and access to water, and security issues related to armed conflicts and radicalization. In light of these challenges, which transcend borders, Canada is committed to promoting sustainable economic growth that will enable youth and women to reach their full potential.”

- Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of International Development and La Francophonie Quick facts

  • The 16th Francophonie Summit will be chaired by Madagascar’s President Hery Rajaonarimampianina.
  • Since the first Francophonie Summit, which was held in Paris, France, in 1986, the number of member and observer countries of La Francophonie has nearly doubled.