Prime Minister Justin Trudeau wrapped up his trip to London, UK today where he attended the Commonwealth Heads of Government which happens every two years to address various global challenges.
Trudeau spoke about cross-country trade, and affirmative action on climate change, but gave few details on the specifics. Climate change was addressed in a 'stay tuned' approach, pointing to the G7 Summit, which happens to be hosted by Canada this June, in Charlevoix, Quebec. He also spoke about the importance of upholding values around gender equality, inclusion and diversity.
.@Theresa_May welcomed fellow heads of the Commonwealth to the Leaders’ retreat at Windsor Castle on the last day of #CHOGM2018 @10downingstreet pic.twitter.com/AdlCyvdd4H
— CHOGM London 2018 (@Commonwealth18) April 20, 2018
At the Queen's Dinner for the Commonwealth Heads of Government, Trudeau seemed to be getting chummy with Prince Harry. Still, it wasn't enough Trudeau charm to earn an invite to the Royal wedding.
During his time, Trudeau met with the UK's Prime Minister, Theresa May, at the well-known 10 Downing Street address. Free trade was among the many topics discussed as the UK plans its exit from the European Union.
Closer cooperation and growing trade between Canada & the UK will create jobs & opportunities for people in both our countries. Thanks to Prime Minister @theresa_may for the meeting today. pic.twitter.com/4a2SzTEPPp
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) April 18, 2018
Upon his arrival, Trudeau was met with protestors and an art installation of pipelines that read "Crudeau" at the entrance to the Canadian High Commission in Trafalgar Square.
He also met with Prime Minister of New Zealand, Jacinda Ardern and Prime Minister of Australia, Malcolm Turnbull, to discuss the Syria crisis, cybersecurity and more.
PM @theresa_may visited the National Cyber Security Centre with Trudeau, Turnbull and Ardern, where they discussed promoting security capability and cooperation in support of the rules-based system, during #CHOGM2018. pic.twitter.com/pEXT4Ik5V2
— UK Prime Minister (@10DowningStreet) April 18, 2018
“The UK is among Canada’s closest friends and most important partners. We unite in our shared history, family ties, and unwavering commitment to democratic values. We will continue to set the stage for an even closer economic partnership, and create greater opportunities for citizens of Canada and the UK alike," said Trudeau.
While in London, Trudeau also met with Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II at Buckingham Palace for a chat.
"It's always a privilege to discuss the state of the world, and benefit from her wisdom and insight," said Trudeau in a tweet.
And in 'True'-deau fashion, he couldn't leave a youth function without snapping a group selfie. In honour of the UK's 100th anniversary of allowing women to vote, Trudeau, Mayor Sadiq Aman Khan and Prime Minister Arden, hosted a gender equality Q&A with London youth.
What a truly inspiring discussion – a huge thank you to prime ministers @JacindaArdern and @JustinTrudeau for coming to City Hall to talk gender equality, and to our incredible audience of young Londoners for your thought-provoking questions #BehindEveryGreatCity #CHOGM18 pic.twitter.com/pYcZD9N6ul
— Sadiq Khan (@SadiqKhan) April 18, 2018
While meeting with Commonwealth leaders of small islands and coastal states, Canada committed $3.35 million to promote economic and political participation for women in the Pacific Islands.
In 2017, two-way merchandise trade between Canada and the UK totalled more than $26.5 billion.
