Senator Gerba: I’m delighted to hear that, Senator Gold. However, as you know, a strategy can only progress if the two parties meet. Many other very powerful countries are already jockeying for Africa’s attention. The entire continent is developing. In December, the United States will host the U.S.‑Africa Leaders Summit. When will Canada follow suit? Is it part of the strategy that the Government of Canada is going to put forward?

Hon. Marc Gold (Government Representative in the Senate): Thank you for the question. As the government continues to develop Canada’s strategy for Africa, it also continues to work with key partners to advance our shared priorities, including peace, security and prosperity.

That is why the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs visited South Africa, Malawi, Tanzania, Egypt, Morocco, Senegal and Nigeria this year to strengthen those ties. That is also why the government announced the opening of a new Office of the High Commission in Kigali and the establishment of a dedicated mission and permanent observer to the African Union. I’m told that the government will soon have more to say about the next steps in the Africa strategy.

Senator Gold: Thank you for the question. As I said, the government is currently developing the strategy and will announce details soon.

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