Political relations

Generally speaking, France and Canada share a common view of international relations: commitment to multilateralism, emphasis on the issues of international security, promotion of democracy and good governance. The two countries are members of many different organizations (NATO, G8, OECD, OSCE, OIF, etc.). More specifically, France and Canada work closely together on many issues of common interest, such as cultural diversity (UNESCO convention), peacekeeping operations (Afghanistan, Haiti, Africa) and development assistance. Moreover, exchanges of experience concerning social issues (health, immigration, dialogue with the Muslim world, State reform) are especially productive.

With more specific regard to Afghanistan, France and Canada contribute 3,000 and 2,700 men, respectively, to the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF). The two countries agree on a global approach (civilian and military) for this mission, and on the objective of having the Afghans take control of their security responsibilities progressively.

Saint Pierre and Miquelon (SPM) is a key issue of the Franco-Canadian relationship. Following the adjudication decision of June 1992 on the Exclusive Economic Zone of SPM, France and Canada signed an agreement in 1994, which has since governed the fishing zones and regional cooperation between the archipelago and the Atlantic provinces. A joint committee meets each year to reinforce regional cooperation between SPM and these four provinces.

Link: http://www.ambafrance-ca.org/

^{Updated on 29.05.11}