In Italy, Minister Champagne met with Luigi Di Maio, Minister of Foreign Affairs, to discuss the strengthening of relations between Canada and Italy as well as Italy’s upcoming presidency of the G20. The ministers also talked about multilateral cooperation on the response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Finally, Minister Champagne held a meeting in Rome with Wang Yi, China’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, who was also on an official visit to Italy. August 26, 2020 – Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada While in Rome, the Minister also held a call with Jean-Yves Le Drian, France’s Minister of Europe and Foreign Affairs, to discuss the emergency situation in Beirut and the two countries’ common support for critical reforms needed in Lebanon. During his travels, Minister Champagne is following all applicable health and safety protocols, including public health advice measures. He will self-quarantine for 14 days upon his return to Canada. In Switzerland, Minister Champagne met with Ignazio Cassis, Head of the Department of Foreign Affairs, to discuss cooperation on multilateral issues, including the search for a COVID-19 vaccine. He also met with Michelle Bachelet, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights; Roberto Azevêdo, Director-General, World Trade Organization; Børge Brende, President, World Economic Forum; and Klaus Schwab, Founder and Chairman, World Economic Forum, as well as officials from the Red Cross. Minister Champagne now travels on to Lebanon, where he will be officially hosted there by Charbel Wehbe, Minister of Foreign Affairs. While in Beirut, the Minister will meet with Michel Aoun President of Lebanon, and with representatives from the United Nations, the Lebanese Red Cross and other civil society organizations. The Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, concluded successful visits to Switzerland and Italy, where he met with his counterparts and top officials from key international organizations.
Related News