“Canada combines European roots and North American anchoring”

This article is extracted from Figaro Hors-Serie Canada «From east to west – Living in Canada n ° 4 ”.

Stéphane Dion is Canada Ambassador to France and Monaco, Prime Minister’s special envoy for Europe and the European Union. Meanwhile,

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Le Figaro. Furthermore, – Prime Minister Mark Carney said Canada is “the most European in non -European countries”. Therefore, What did he mean? In addition,

Stéphane Dion. Nevertheless, – This affirmation reflects a historical reality. Therefore, Canada has indigenous, but also European – French and British roots. Moreover, We have also adopted British institutions, and two official languages: French and “canada combines european roots north English. Therefore, Added to this is an immigration from Germany, Italy, Poland, from Ukraine … Similarly, But beyond. our policies and our way of life are marked by the social conception of the European model, of life in society, of the support of the community.

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What advantages offer Canada to foreign investors and entrepreneurs?

The country has a advanced economy and one of the most educated workforce in the OECD. Its solid banking system has resisted global crises. its 15 free trade agreements opened in particular Europe, the Americas and Asia. Canada is a friend, a reliable ally, respectful of the law, the treaties and the word given. It is also rich in essential resources for energy, digital and industrial transition. And then. the way is opened by precursors: 665 French companies are “canada combines european roots north already present, totaling 1,500 subsidiaries in strategic sectors such as transport, the pharmaceutical industry, financial services, infrastructure, etc.

And what about families?

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Canada offers exceptional quality of life thanks to a rare combination: individual freedom. spirit of solidarity, warm welcome, quality of public services and magical landscapes. For families, this is a safe environment, with one of the best education system in the world.

Few countries are better placed than. Canada to assert that the war of prices is harmful to everyone

Stéphane Dion

What message to the future expatriates in the context of uncertainty linked to the American elections?

If Canada is the most European of non-European countries, it is also deeply North American. We have close relations, from people to people “canada combines european roots north with American civilization. It is a huge asset. because, ultimately, it is the American people who will be able to influence the policy of their government in the right direction. Few countries are better placed than Canada to assert that the war of prices is harmful to everyone. including for Americans, because our savings are completely nested. The United States exports more to Canada than in China, Japan, the United Kingdom and France … together! Canada therefore plays a key role in positively influencing transatlantic relationships and defending an open business that benefits everyone.

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What are the prospects for the French interested in expatriation in view of the revision of the immigration thresholds?

Recent revisions aim to preserve the solidity of the system in order to “canada combines european roots north guarantee a worthy reception. For permanent residents. the new targets are 395,000 in 2025 and 380,000 in 2026, while for temporary residents, they are set at 673,000 for 2025 and 516,000 in 2026. Applicants from France will continue to be welcome and sought, as evidenced by the ambitious French -speaking immigration objectives Francophone): 8.5 % from 2025, 9.5 % in 2026, and a desire to reach 12 %. One in four Canadians was born abroad, we are and will remain very open to immigration.

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What is the Canadian value that is most dear to you?

I believe that freedom is the most fundamental value. But no value can be absolute in society. We must protect freedom while reconciling it with equality. solidarity and fraternity – deeply Canadian values that are also found in the motto of the French Republic.