Amman, Jordan, Sunday, October 30, 2016

Thank you for warmly welcoming our Canadian delegation—we are very pleased to be here.

Canada is pleased to help support the strength and resilience of Jordanian communities.

I am impressed by the efforts led by Jordan’s municipalities to respond to the influx of Syrian refugees.

Earlier this morning we visited Zaatari Refugee Camp, and learned more about the services provided to refugees in the camps.

However, I know only twenty percent of refugees live in the camps. The vast majority are living in Jordanian communities, which has put extreme pressure on your infrastructure and ability to deliver services.

Canada recognizes the economic and social strain that Jordan is experiencing as a result of this ongoing crisis.

Our country stands with yours. We are committed to helping communities cope and even prosper, in face of the refugee crisis.

We are pleased to be working together on this challenge in a number of ways.

This includes seeking inclusive and sustainable ways to reduce poverty and create economic growth.

Canada also values the empowerment of women and sees them as essential to building a smart, caring and successful society.

And we understand that municipalities play a critical role in maintaining social cohesion and ensuring tolerance toward refugees.

Let me also take this opportunity to congratulate you also for your efforts in achieving democratic reform in the municipal sector.

Taken together, your hard work is making a real difference in peoples’ lives.

Strong communities are essential to our success, and Canada and Jordan are strengthening the resilience of your communities while helping refugees in desperate need.

I wish you the very best in these efforts and look forward to this discussion.

Thank you.