Message from the High Commissioner
Gaston Barban
Welcome to the High Commission of Canada's Web site in South Africa
Promoting and protecting Canadian interests is our mission.
Through our High Commission in Pretoria and our Trade Office in Johannesburg, we are seeking to build on the close and vibrant relationships that we have developed with South Africa and with the other countries to which we are accredited: Lesotho, Mauritius, Namibia and Madagascar. Our goal is to broaden and deepen these relationships so that we can advance the Government of Canada’s political and economic priorities, facilitate trade and create new commercial opportunities for Canadian business, and better serve travelling and resident Canadians in all of these countries
Our Trade Office in Johannesburg supports Canadian companies in their international business development efforts.
Through our development cooperation program, led by the Canadian International Development Agency, the focus is on capacity development and technical assistance, particularly in support of those affected and infected by HIV/AIDS. Enhancing governance and strengthening institutions are also priorities of the program.
In addition to providing consular and passport services to Canadian citizens, the High Commission also offers services to those interested in learning more about Canada, immigrating or traveling to study or work in Canada.
We cooperate closely with our host governments on a range of defence, police and security issues, as well as economic and social development matters. We also work closely with them as partners in the United Nations, the Commonwealth, La Francophonie and other international organizations.
With recent strong economic growth and improving political conditions, Africa has a bright future. Canada has an interest in Africa’s progress and promise. Based in South Africa, The High Commission is committed to engage with its host governments to advance our shared goals here in Africa and through the world.
I invite you to explore our web site to learn more about programs.
Please provide us with feedback on the site and on how we can best respond to your needs.
Our e-mail address is pret@international.gc.ca.
Gaston Barban
High Commissioner
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