The Summit of the Americas

April 27, 2001

All Canadians can be proud of the role we played in the historic achievements that were made at the Summit of the Americas in Quebec City.

In an unprecedented spirit of openness, respect and dialogue, the 34 democratically elected leaders of the Americas – la Gran Familia – made a ringing declaration of common purpose for the 21^st century.

One that will help achieve a brighter future for all the peoples of the America though a joint commitment to democracy, open trade, shared prosperity, realizing human potential and social inclusion.

While the leaders adopted an ambitious plan of action, they also endorsed significant funding in support of their objectives.

More than $56 billion will be channelled through the Inter-American Development Bank and the World Bank to reinforce democratic institutions, economic infrastructure, education, health care and connectivity.

The Democratic Clause

The nations of the Americas took an historic step to strengthen democracy throughout the Americas by agreeing to abide by a Democratic Clause - which makes a commitment to democratic government a condition for participation in the Summit of the Americas process.

The Free Trade Area of the Americas (FTAA)

The nations of the Americas reaffirmed our shared commitment to building greater prosperity for all of the people of the Americas. By renewing our resolve to create a FTAA by 2005.

Canada is deeply committed to the FTAA – by temperament and history. We understand the connection between freer trade, prosperity and social progress. And we see an FTAA – with increased transparency and clearer rules – as the best way of forging that same connection throughout the hemisphere, for big nations and for small.

By collectively deciding to release the negotiating texts for the FTAA, the Summit participants followed through on a shared pledge to reach out to those who have very real doubts and concerns about the social and economic effects of a hemispheric trade agreement.

The Plan of Action also recognized the need for action and cooperation to ensure that economic growth in the Americas is sustainable, to promote the adoption of labour standards and encourage corporate social responsibility.

Realizing Human Potential

The nations of the Americas pledged to take actions to promote the inclusion of all citizens in the social, political and economic life of our nations and of the hemisphere.

We placed a high priority on cooperation to reduce poverty, broaden access to education and health care, promote the equality of men and women, strengthen cultural diversity, and promote dialogue with the indigenous peoples of the Americas.

Declaration on Connectivity

The nations of the Americas adopted a Declaration on Connectivity which outlines how we plan to use information and communications technologies to facilitate contacts among people, promote participation in democratic institutions, create new economic opportunities, and deliver government services.

As a major contribution to fulfilling the Summit’s goals, Canada announced a $20 million investment to create the Institute for Connectivity in the Americas.