MP Ahmed Hussen asked Canada’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Stephane Dion to update Canadians on Canada’s contribution to support Somalia

Somali-Canadian MP Ahmed Hussen asked Canada’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Stephane Dion to update the Canadian Parliament on Canada’s contribution to the international community’s effort to support a more democratic, secure, and prosperous future for the people of Somalia.

Ahmed Hussen York South—Weston, ON

QUESTION: Mr. Speaker, the sixth meeting of the Somalia High Level Partnership Forum was recently held in Istanbul, Turkey. The meeting was attended by 46 countries, including Canada. With the end of the terms of the federal government and parliament in Somalia, 2016 is a decisive year for Somalia. Could the Minister of Foreign Affairs update the House on this important meeting and Canada’s contribution to the international community’s effort to support a more democratic, secure, and prosperous future for the people of Somalia?

Stéphane Dion Minister of Foreign Affairs

ANSWER: Mr. Speaker, I am honoured to answer the first question ever asked in the House on Somalia by a member of Parliament of Somalian origin. This year will be crucial for Somalia. It will have a constitutional review, the implementation of a federal structure, and national elections. This would be a challenging agenda for any country, including Canada. Canada will be there with Somalia this year and for the long term.