Immigration Minister Lena Metlege Diab said on Monday that Canada is making progress toward its 2026 target of welcoming 9 per cent French-speaking permanent residents outside Quebec.
Diab made the comment in a statement issued in Ottawa on Nov. 2 to mark the 14th National Francophone Immigration Week. This year's theme is "Finding your place within the Francophonie community."
The minister said French-speaking immigrants contribute to the vitality and influence of Francophone and Acadian minority communities outside Quebec. She said their talent, energy and dedication help those communities grow.
Diab described the Canadian Francophonie as central to the country's bilingual identity and history. She said it plays a role in the economy, in resilience and in the vitality of communities, and that Francophone immigration enriches social, economic and cultural life.
"This week, we are highlighting the concrete actions we are taking to support Francophone communities," Diab said in the statement.
She said the federal government is working with the provinces, territories and community organizations to improve settlement and integration supports for newcomers.
Diab named three measures: the Welcoming Francophone Communities Initiative, the Francophone Immigration Support Program and the Express Entry system. She said Express Entry selects qualified French-speaking candidates to help meet labour market needs. According to the minister, the measures help newcomers settle and contribute to community life while sharing their language and culture.
The statement did not provide current figures on how close Canada is to the 9 per cent target.
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