Canada has revised its list of countries that will receive the bulk of its development assistance, and more funding will go to those with trade and investment opportunities for Canadians companies.
Monglolia, Myanmar and Democratic Republic of the Congo are among seven countries added to a list of 20 that was drawn up in 2009. Jordan was added because of the help it needs in dealing with huge numbers of refugees that have arrived from Syria. Pakistan and Bolivia have been removed from the priority list.
Canada dismantled its development agency, CIDA last year folding it into the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade. This reflects the current government’s goal of linking aid with business opportunities.
Canada’s interests were considered in devising the new list, but in announcing it, the International Development Minister said they were not the only determinants. He pointed out that the list meshes with Canada’s initiatives to improve mother and child health in needy countries.
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