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Canada and the Organization of American States
  • The Organization of American States (OAS) is the first multilateral organization of the Americas and its purpose is to promote economic, military, and cultural cooperation among members.
  • There are 34 active member states, of which Canada and the US are part, and 70 states and the European Union with observer status.
  • Canada initially declined the US offer (from President Dwight Eisenhower) to join the OAS under Prime Minister Diefenbaker, however, under Prime Minister Mulroney, Canada became part of OAS in 1990, while the United States was among the original members.
Policy Type
Info Note