REMINDER: Minister's Message for International Development Week (IDW) February 3-9, 2008

On my recent trip to Peru, I saw first-hand how our assistance was making a difference in the lives of those affected by the earthquake that ravaged the country in August 2007. Canadian dollars have rebuilt houses and schools, so that Peruvians were able to return to their everyday lives. In neighbouring Colombia, I spoke with displaced Afro-Colombian youth about their future, and was moved by the stories of young children who had been exploited. With our help, these children are now receiving vital services, like health care, basic education, and security.

However, there is no example of progress more striking than in Afghanistan. Here, Canadian funds are removing landmines, building essential wells and roads, financing small businesses run mostly by women, and providing education to young girls for the first time in decades.

The Government of Canada is committed to improve our international aid effectiveness to ensure that Canadian dollars are well spent. By focusing our efforts, we believe that even better results can be delivered to those who need it most.

It is a harsh reality that so many around the world do not have even the basics of a quality of life. With our partners, Canada will contribute to helping the world's most vulnerable.

Beverley J. Oda

Minister of International Cooperation

http://www.cida.gc.ca (electronic version of document)