Pictured left to right: Joanne Vrakas, The Honorable Lloyd Axworthy, Anne Delorme, Pierre Leonard. | © Amélie Eggerstorfer / HI
An event organized by Humanity & Inclusion (HI) Canada in partnership with the Montreal Institute for Genocide and Human Rights Studies, the Canadian International Council, the World Refugee & Migration Council and the Montreal Council on Foreign Relations. Nearly eighty people from the academic, political, humanitarian, philanthropic and civil society worlds attended the book launch.
Guests welcome Lloyd Axworthy with applause. © Amélie EGGERSTORFER
The evening began with opening remarks by Anne Delorme, HI Canada's Executive Director. She took the opportunity to announce that the Hon. Axworthy has joined the prestigious Council of Governors, a council that brings together influential figures from across the country. She also recalled the long-standing collaboration between HI and the former Minister of Foreign Affairs.
He played a decisive role in the process leading to the signing of the Ottawa Convention against landmines 27 years ago, working closely with Handicap International, now Humanity & Inclusion, and other NGOs behind the International Campaign to Ban Landmines. The Ottawa Convention or Treaty is a successful example of international mobilization on an ongoing humanitarian issue, of strategic partnership among states, NGOs, international groups and the United Nations, and of Canadian leadership on the world stage.
Marc-André Blanchard gives his speech. © Amélie EGGERSTORFER
The evening continued with a speech by Marc-André Blanchard, former ambassador and Permanent Representative of Canada to the United Nations from 2016 to 2020. He paid tribute to his friend, Mr. Axworthy, whom he considers an inspiration.
The Hon. Axworthy and Joanne Vrakas in discussion. © Amélie EGGERSTORFER
The former politician then spent an hour talking to host Joanne Vrakas about some of the defining moments in his political career, as described in his memoir. He also discussed foreign policy issues ranging from Canada's evolving role on the international stage, to the importance of diplomacy in resolving international problems, to the problems faced by humanitarian personnel in conflict zones.
The Hon. Axworthy signs copies of his book. © Amélie EGGERSTORFER
The conversation ended with a question and answer period for the audience, followed by a cocktail reception where attendees were able to purchase and have copies of the former Foreign Minister's book signed.
