As 2nd Vice-President of ParlAmericas and Chair of the Canadian Section of ParlAmericas, I was proud to officially welcome more than 80 parliamentarians and diplomatic representatives from across the Americas and the Caribbean to Ottawa this week for the 22nd ParlAmericas Plenary Assembly and the 10th Gathering of the Open Parliament Network. It marked the first time Canada has hosted a ParlAmericas Plenary Assembly since 2018, and it was both an honour and a pleasure to meet, exchange ideas, and strengthen relationships with representatives from across the hemisphere.
This year’s theme, Parliamentary Leadership for Shared Prosperity, reflects the growing importance of international collaboration at a time of significant geopolitical, economic, technological, and social transformation. Throughout the Assembly, delegates engaged in meaningful discussions focused on strengthening democratic institutions, promoting transparency, and ensuring governments can respond effectively and collaboratively to the challenges facing citizens across the hemisphere.
The official inauguration ceremony, held at the Senate of Canada, marked an important moment in advancing regional cooperation and parliamentary diplomacy. During the ceremony, I was honoured to address participants and emphasize the critical role parliamentarians play in reinforcing democracy and building resilient societies rooted in openness, accountability, and shared prosperity.
Another major highlight of the gathering was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and ParlAmericas. This important agreement represents another step forward in strengthening cooperation on governance, democracy, and sustainable development throughout the Americas and the Caribbean.
We also launched the inaugural meeting of ParlAmericas’ Indigenous Women Parliamentarians Caucus this week, a powerful reminder that the inclusion of diverse voices and perspectives only strengthens our democracies and institutions.
Through these partnerships and continued collaboration among legislators, I am proud to reaffirm Canada’s commitment to advancing transparent institutions and supporting the objectives of the United Nations 2030 Agenda. As we commemorate ParlAmericas’ 25th anniversary, we will continue working together to foster democracy, sustainable economic growth, and a stronger, more prosperous, and resilient hemisphere for all.