Statement on the passing of the Honourable Maurice Strong by Jean Lebel, President of Canada's International Development Research Centre

OTTAWA, Nov. 30, 2015 /CNW/ - On behalf of the entire IDRC family, I wish to express our deep sadness at the passing of the Honourable Maurice Strong. We extend our sincere condolences to his family, colleagues, and many friends.

Mr. Strong leaves a lasting legacy in the fields of sustainable development, environmental diplomacy, and multilateralism. He made a profound contribution to international cooperation on environmental challenges, including climate change. Along the way, he elevated the influence of civil society groups and Canada's reputation on the world stage.

Canada's IDRC owes its existence to Mr. Strong. He first proposed the idea of creating a research-funding organization dedicated to closing the science and technology gap between rich and poor countries. Instrumental in shaping the early vision of the Centre, which was established in 1970, Mr. Strong served as IDRC Board Chairperson between 1977 and 1981.

As the 2015 UN climate conference opens in Paris, we remember that Mr. Strong's many accomplishments included organizing the 1992 Rio Earth Summit, which gave rise to the UN climate negotiations.

A global citizen of remarkable vision, energy, and commitment, Maurice Strong's loss will be deeply felt, but his legacy lives on.

SOURCE International Development Research Centre

Jocelyn Sweet, 613 696-2117