An agreement between the Wallonia-Brussels Federation and Ontario with the aim of strengthening cooperation between the two political entities in matters of Francophonie could be signed as early as April 8, according to an internal note. This would be the first official agreement between the two governments.
The two parties had announced, on September 22, their intention to collaborate more in the field of culture, education and economic development. The collaboration would be ratified as part of an agreement “which will specifically target programs and initiatives related, among other things, to higher education, digital technology, youth and the promotion of the French language”, indicates an internal memo produced in anticipation. a meeting between the Minister of Francophone Affairs of Ontario, Caroline Mulroney, and the Belgian Ambassador to Canada.
“The two parties responsible for monitoring the file continue to collaborate within the framework of the objectives mentioned in [la déclaration] », Communicated by email Sharon Weinblum, general delegate of the Wallonia-Brussels Federation in Quebec.
“We are continuing our discussions,” replied Charles Jean Sucsan, director of strategic communications at the Ontario Ministry of Francophone Affairs.
Talks have been held since the announcement in early fall. A working group with representatives of the two government delegations was formed in October. In December, the Ministry of Francophone Affairs contacted other ministries that could be included in the agreement, such as the Ministry of Colleges and Universities and the Ministry of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade.
The joint declaration of September 22 is part of a group of programs intended to strengthen the vitality of the Francophone community in Ontario. The province notably supported Francophone non-profit organizations affected by COVID through a relief fund and launched a Support Program for the Ontario Francophonie in 2019.
“The advantage that the Ontario Francophonie represents is important and must be enhanced by building on the enviable reputation of the province,” the note read.
This story is supported by the Local Journalism Initiative, funded by the Government of Canada.