STATEMENT - Together, let's help Canada's Francophone communities thrive during National Francophone Immigration Week

OTTAWA, ON, Nov. 2, 2026 /CNW/ -- The Honourable Lena Metlege Diab, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, issued the following statement:

"On the occasion of the 14th National Francophone Immigration Week, under the theme 'Finding your place within the Francophonie community,' I would like to highlight the essential contribution of French-speaking immigrants to the vitality and influence of the Francophone community. Their talent, energy and dedication help our Francophone and Acadian minority communities outside Quebec thrive and grow.

"The Canadian Francophonie is at the heart of our bilingual identity and our history. It plays an important role in our economy, our resilience and the vitality of our communities. Francophone immigration enriches our social, economic and cultural life. Thanks to the dedication of immigrants, our communities become more inclusive, dynamic and resilient. All of Canada benefits from this.

"This week, we are highlighting the concrete actions we are taking to support Francophone communities. We are making progress toward our 2026 target of welcoming 9% of French-speaking permanent residents outside Quebec. By working together with the provinces, territories and community organizations, we're improving settlement and integration supports to help newcomers succeed.

"Measures like the Welcoming Francophone Communities Initiative, the Francophone Immigration Support Program and the Express Entry system, which selects qualified French-speaking candidates to help meet labour market needs, help newcomers settle, thrive and contribute to community life while sharing their language and culture.

"I encourage everyone to recognize and celebrate their remarkable contributions, a source of strength for our country and an inspiration for our shared future. Together, let's celebrate the vitality of our Francophone communities and build an inclusive Canada where they can thrive and flourish."

SOURCE Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada

For further information (media only), please contact: Taous Ait, Senior Communications Advisor and Press Secretary, Office of the Minister, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, [email protected]; Media Relations, People and Communications Sector Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, [email protected]