Canada has pledged CAD 700,000 to support developing countries in strengthening their food safety systems. This commitment is a step towards ensuring that people across the world have access to safe and nutritious food, regardless of where they live. This investment is expected to improve the safety and quality of food products, while also boosting trade and economic growth in these countries. The initiative aligns with Canada's commitment to supporting sustainable development goals and promoting global food security. Food safety is a crucial issue, especially in developing countries where foodborne illnesses are a major public health concern. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 600 million people fall ill and 420,000 die each year due to contaminated food. These statistics highlight the need for urgent action to improve food safety systems, particularly in developing countries. Canada's commitment to supporting food safety initiatives in developing countries will help to enhance the capacity of these countries to prevent, detect and respond to food safety issues. This support will be channeled through the Canadian Food Inspection Agency's (CFIA) International Regulatory Cooperation program, which works to improve food safety and animal and plant health around the world. The CFIA will work with partner countries to identify areas where they require assistance in strengthening their food safety systems. The areas of focus will include developing food safety regulations and standards, improving inspection and surveillance programs, and enhancing laboratory testing capabilities. Canada's commitment to supporting food safety initiatives in developing countries is part of its larger commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). SDG 2, which aims to end hunger, achieve food security, and improve nutrition, recognizes the importance of safe and nutritious food for all. Canada's pledge to support food safety in developing countries is a significant step towards achieving this goal. By strengthening food safety systems, we can ensure that people across the world have access to safe and nutritious food, which is essential for healthy and productive lives. In addition to its commitment to food safety, Canada has also pledged to support other SDGs, including SDG 1, which aims to eradicate poverty, and SDG 5, which aims to achieve gender equality. These commitments demonstrate Canada's commitment to creating a more just and sustainable world for all. In conclusion, Canada's commitment to supporting food safety initiatives in developing countries is a critical step towards ensuring that people across the world have access to safe and nutritious food. This pledge will help to enhance the capacity of developing countries to prevent, detect and respond to food safety issues, and is part of Canada's broader commitment to the UN SDGs. We must continue to work together to build a more just and sustainable world, where everyone has access to the basic necessities of life, including safe and nutritious food.

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