Minister Hussen Engages with European Allies on Canada’s Immigration Strengths
From: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
News Release
July 24, 2018 – Ottawa, ON – The Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, has successfully concluded a week-long tour of the United Kingdom, Belgium, and Germany. The trip focused on discussions with European partners and stakeholders about global migration trends and showcased how Canada leverages diversity and immigration to boost its economy.
Canada’s Immigration as an Economic Engine
Promoting Economic Growth
During his visit, Minister Hussen emphasized immigration as a crucial economic driver. He engaged in a fireside chat at the University of Oxford and delivered a keynote at a Canada-U.K. Chamber of Commerce luncheon. Additionally, he addressed the London School of Economics and conducted a roundtable with U.K. businesses with Canadian investments. These engagements highlighted Canada’s multi-year immigration plan designed to attract skilled talent to fuel economic growth and address labor shortages caused by an aging population.
Fostering Humanitarian Commitments
Canada’s commitment to refugees was a central theme throughout the journey. In discussions with the U.K.’s Home Secretary, Sajid Javid, Minister Hussen praised the U.K.’s efforts in advancing a community-based refugee sponsorship program. He also expressed gratitude for the U.K.’s co-hosting of the Global Refugee Sponsorship Initiative (GRSI) Technical Workshop.
Collaboration with Germany and Beyond
Innovative Solutions for Integration
In Germany, Minister Hussen met with government officials, including cabinet members involved in migration. Acknowledging Germany’s leadership in addressing migration challenges, he also visited the ReDI School of Digital Integration and other organizations to explore digital innovations for refugee integration.
Engagement with African Leaders
Representing Canada at the Somalia Partnership Forum, Minister Hussen participated in bilateral meetings with African leaders, including the President of Somalia. Discussions focused on shared interests and collaborative opportunities.
Quotes
“Canada offers the world a great example of how different groups of people can successfully live and work together, while contributing to great prosperity and social harmony. With populism and xenophobia on the rise in many places in the world, I am grateful for the opportunity to share Canada’s positive experiences of diversity and immigration.”
– The Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
Associated Links
- The Global Refugee Sponsorship Initiative
- Joint Statement – Ministers from Canada, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Argentina, Spain and New Zealand underline their support for community-based refugee sponsorship (PDF, 246 KB)
- Somalia Partnership Forum
Contact Information
Media Contacts Only
Mathieu Genest
Minister’s Office
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-954-1064
Media Relations
Communications Branch
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-952-1650
IRCC.COMMMediaRelations-RelationsmediasCOMM.IRCC@cic.gc.ca
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the purpose of Minister Hussen’s European visit?
The visit aimed to discuss global migration trends and showcase how Canada’s immigration policies bolster economic growth.
How does Canada support refugee integration?
Canada promotes initiatives like community-based refugee sponsorship and collaborates with international partners to advance refugee integration.
What role does immigration play in Canada’s economy?
Immigration attracts skilled talent essential for addressing labor shortages and fostering economic expansion.
What is the Global Refugee Sponsorship Initiative?
The GRSI is a program encouraging community-based sponsorship of refugees globally, supported by countries like Canada and the U.K.
For more information, please read our immigration guide.
