Development of International Policy Statement in Canada - Essay Example

On the Canada’s International Policy ment Introduction The Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) is Canada’s federal agency tasked in planning, devising, and executing most of the country’s development cooperation program. The main priorities of CIDA is the reduction and gradual eradication of poverty and contribute to a “more secure, equitable, and prosperous world.” These goals are pursued as CIDA allocates 80% of the aid budget. This budget is used to support programs in 150 different countries worldwide which represent 80% of the global population. CIDA works hand in hand with other developing countries, Canadian organizations, institutions and business, as well as international organization and agencies (Canadian International Development Agency [CIDA], 2005). One of the most significant tasks of the CIDA is the crafting of Canada’s international policy statement which serves as the platform of the country’s international development efforts. This year, the agency releases its International Policy Statement which was designed to promote its thrusts suited to the current world situation. CIDA’s Policies CIDA’s policies are geared in promoting international development. This year’s international policy statement is focused on Canada’s foreign policy as “the world is changing, quickly, radically, and these changes matter to Canada—not in abstract terms, and not only to students of international relations but tangibly to everyone (Canada’s International Policy Statement [CIPS], 2005).” The country has recognized that its security, prosperity and quality of living are greatly influenced by drastic global transformations. As the world is more and more becoming a “global village,” Canada is affected by all global occurrences from international terrorism, virulent disease, climate changes and disappearing fish stocks (CIPS, 2005). By incorporating these considerations in its international policy statement, Canada gears itself in embracing the challenges posted by the fast paced 21st century. CIDA’s policies are categorized to represent three important goals—revitalize friendship with North America, making a change in the global arena, and changing the way it works. These three categories have overlapping objectives which tackles Canada’s relationship with North America, defense and international security, trade and commerce, international assistance, the new multilateralism, and making a difference (CIPS, 2005). Revitalizing friendship with North America includes a collaborative effort between the two nations to protect the North American territory and sovereignty especially in the face of raging international terrorism. It also involves the implementation of National Security Policy and updating of the domestic strategy of the Canadian Forces to protect the local citizens. In the economic side, Canada can serve as an attractive gateway for international players who are trying to capture the North American market. As an established player in the global arena, North America can benefit from the efforts of its neighbor while boosting the latter’s economic performance. It can be noted that the US-Canada relationship is the largest bilateral trading relationship and the longest unmilitarized borders in the world. To further deepen this relationship, Canada plans to ally with its regional partners to “build a competitive economic space that facilitates the free movement of services, capital, and people that enhances the quality of life of all North Americans (CIPS, 2005).” The 9-11 incident had imprinted a dangerous warning to countries all over the world. This had made a dramatic impact on the operation and security measures taken by nations. In order to combat terrorism Canada will strengthen its ties with the United Nations, North American Treaty Organization, and G8 in their efforts to counteract terrorists and end their support networks. Civilians will also play a role in this feat as Canada will from a Stabilization and Reconstruction Task Force (START) to “plan and coordinate rapid integrated civilian responses” during international crises. Canadians are wary of the threat posed by failed and fragile states which can be breeding grounds for terrorism. In view of this, it wants to focus in reinstating peace and stability to these nations as well as preventing the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMD). In the commercial sector, Canada acknowledges that exports play a significant role in its economy as 40% ($496.2 billion) of the country’s total output (Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, 2005). However, it also recognized investment as the more fundamental driver of economic growth. This global trend necessitates Canada to attract and secure investments overseas through aggressively marketing its potential in the global market. Canada begins this task by maintaining an accomplished and skilled workforce in the economy. It will strengthen this effort by establishing and implementing sound economic policies that would further improve while protecting the local market (CIPS, 2005). Though Canada has strong and stable relationship with the current dominant international players, it also sees large potentials in collaborating with emerging economic giants like China, India, and Brazil. It is irrefutable that these three economies are the key drivers in global economic growth, led by China which is poised to become the single most important nation in the 21st century (Gulob, 2003). Canada is ardent in pursuing strategies to enter not only China but the entire East Asian regional market by penetrating South Korea first. Science and technology agreement with India is also a priority (CIPS, 2005). Canada also supports the policies of the World Trade Organization. This includes the further eradication of trade barriers among nations to facilitate the mobility of the goods and services among national boundaries. Also, one of the important policies of Canada is promoting sustainable development, respecting human rights, and building genuine development. Canada also plans to change the way it works as it recognize the new multilateralism and diplomacy (CIPS, 2005). Analysis of CIDA’s Policies Canada’s international policy statement mirrors the country’s framework for international growth and development. As it is strongly based on the current global situation, it is seen as a response to the pressing international issues at hand. Looking at the policies closely, we see Canada trying to fit into the larger world picture by devising strategies geared to ride the wave of global development. It can be seen that CIDA’s policies strongly highlighted the importance of the United States-Canada alliance not just on economic terms but also in their pursuit of achieving regional security. As stated above, the role of United States in the development of Canada can never be overstated as these countries comprise the largest bilateral trading relationship. It was also mentioned that 40% of the Canada’s economy relies on exports. This reveals Canada’s dependence on North America. I believe that Canada should really maintain its harmonious relationship with the United States as it plays a big role in its local economy. Canada’s move to safeguard North America’s interest and security will help in revitalizing the relationship between them. Being an attractive gateway and taking advantage of the fact North America is perceived as a lucrative market by international markets also seems to be logical way of bolstering national revenue. However, Canada should not also overlook the fact that its alliance with a single nation, the United States can harm it in the long run. For one, strong dependence with North America will expose it to the risks faced by the nation. Economic downturns in the United States adversely affect Canada’s economy. If Canada really wants to grow alongside North America it should strengthen its collaboration with it and be involved in its policy making. This, however, seems impossible for the moment. I believe that Canada should consider stronger collaboration with other prospective future economic giants like China, India, and Brazil. Canada should be more focused on the future direction of the global economy. Looking at China’s unprecedented growth during the recent years earned it the distinction of being the future economic giant. The country should concentrate in tapping this large lucrative market for future growth. Canada, instead of trying to develop new core competencies should strive to identify its specializations. After identifying the processes and products that it can efficiently generate, it should market these skills and outsource the other functions which are handled by other international players more competently. I have no objection on Canada’s policy of developing its manpower, equipping them with the proper skills and competencies. However, the new outsourcing trend can be more beneficial to Canadian firms. Outsourcing other business processes often leads to maximized efficiencies and lower costs in business operations. Counteracting terrorism is also one of the provisions of the international policy statement. As one of the most important nations in the world, I believe that Canada should be hands-on in the eradication of terrorism through diplomacy. Canada’s policy on sustainable development will be advantageous for the economy in the long run. In this fast paced environment, it is very crucial to pursue economic growth through environment friendly mechanism. The growth of an economy is always tied with how it utilizes and conserves its natural resources for the future generation. Canada’s policy of allocating an ample amount of fund to help less fortunate countries is remarkable. Employing this aid to support the economic development of the countries involve should be a priority. Conclusion Canada’s international policy statement is a framework of the new international strategy of the country. It takes into account the significant features of the changing world economy such as globalization. As the world has evolved into a global village, Canada has set a roadmap which applies to the seemingly inexistent geographical boundaries today. As with other policy statements, CIDA’s have sufficiently addressed security and economic concerns. However, some flaws can still be found and should be diagnosed. Global industry experts and opinions should be taken into consideration in establishing and implementing these policies. Also, the international policy statement will give a more accurate picture of the situation if it is backed by quantitative analyses. References Canada International Development Agency (2005). Frequently Asked Questions. Retrieved Oct. 20, 2005, from http://www.acdi-cida.gc.ca/faq-e Canada International Development Agency (2005). Canada’s International Policy Statement. Retrieved Oct. 20, 2005, from http://www.acdi-cida.gc.ca/ Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade (2005). Canada Releases International Policy Statement. Retrived Oct. 20, 2005, from http://w01.international.gc.ca/ Gulob, P. (2003). China: The New Economic Giant. Retrieved Oct. 20, 2005, from http://mondediplo.com/2003/10/08china Read More