I am pleased to contribute to this special issue of Canadian Family Physician which highlights and honours Canada’s many contributions to global development.
Ensuring good health for the world’s population is a key component to laying the foundation for sustainable social, economic, and human development. The Government of Canada is committed to continuing our work with other governments, nongovernmental organizations and the private sector to improve the health of people living in developing countries, whether it be reducing child mortality and improving maternal health or combating HIV/AIDS, malaria and other serious diseases.
Through the World Food Program’s (WFP) School Feeding Program, our government has made substantial contributions to support the WFP’s efforts to feed more than 20 million African children. In Afghanistan, we’ve extended basic medical services to 83 per cent of the population, infant mortality has decreased substantially, and more than 200,000 people have received emergency food aid.
Canada is a world leader in the fight against hunger, HIV/AIDS and poverty. Our contributions are having a tremendous impact around the world and I am proud to salute the men and women at Canada International Development Agency (CIDA) for their hard work and dedication.
Sincerely,
The Rt. Hon. Stephen Harper, P.C., M.P.
Prime Minister of Canada
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