March 25, 2026 – Paris, France – Global Affairs Canada

The Honourable Anita Anand, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today met with Louise Mushikiwabo, Secretary General of La Francophonie, to officially present Canada’s candidacy to host the 2028 Francophonie Summit and to reaffirm Canada’s strong and enduring support for the organization.

During the meeting, Minister Anand formally presented Canada’s official letter of candidacy to host the 2028 Francophonie Summit, underscoring Canada’s commitment to promoting the French language, cultural diversity and multilateral cooperation across La Francophonie.

Minister Anand also announced the renewal of Canada’s long-term institutional support to the International Organisation of La Francophonie (OIF) for an additional four-year period (from fiscal year 2025-2026 to fiscal year 2028-2029), totalling $20.8 million, or $5.2 million per year. This support will contribute to advancing the OIF’s mandate, including promoting the French language and cultural and linguistic diversity; strengthening peace, democracy, human rights and gender equality; improving access to quality education and training and fostering sustainable economic development across La Francophonie. Minister Anand was also pleased to announce the renewal of its long-term institutional support of $2.4 million over four years (fiscal year 2025-2026 to fiscal year 2028-2029) to the Agence universitaire de la Francophonie (AUF) [University Agency of La Francophonie].

This renewed funding will support programming that benefits populations across La Francophonie, particularly youth and women, and will help strengthen economic resilience and cooperation among member states, in line with Canada’s priorities.

Canada is a proud member of La Francophonie and is pleased to continue working with partners to advance shared priorities and support vibrant and inclusive francophone communities around the world.