VISION

Canadian business has a global presence that is recognized by all stakeholders as economically rewarding to all parties, acknowledged as being ethically, socially and environmentaly responsible, welcomed by the communities in which we operate, and that facilitates economic, human resource and community development within a stable operating environment.

BELIEFS

We believe that:

we can make a difference within our sphere of influence (our stakeholders)
business should take a leadership role through establishment of ethical business principles
national governments have the prerogative to conduct their own government and legal affairs in accordance with their sovereign rights all governments should comply with international treaties and other agreements that they have committed to, including the areas of human rights and social justice
while reflecting cultural diversity and differences, we should do business throughout the world consistent with the way we do business in Canada
the business sector should show ethical leadership
we can facilitate the achievement of wealth generation and a fair sharing of economic benefits
our principles will assist in improving relations between the Canadian and host governments
open, honest and transparent relationships are critical to our success
local communities need to be involved in decision-making for issues that effect them
multistakeholder processes need to be initiated to seek effective solutions
confrontation should be tempered by diplomacy
wealth maximization for all stakeholders will be enhanced by resolution of outstanding human rights and social justice issues
doing business with other countries is good for Canada and vice versa

VALUES

We value:

Human rights and social justice
Wealth maximization for all stakeholders
Operation of a free market economy
A business environment which mitigates against bribery and corruption
Public accountability by governments
Equality of opportunity
A defined code of ethics and business practice
Protection of environmental quality and sound environmental stewardship
Community benefits
Good relationships with all stakeholders
Stability and continuous improvement within our operating environment

PRINCIPLES

A. Concerning Community Participation and Environmental Protection, we will:

strive within our sphere of influence to ensure a fair share of benefits to stakeholders impacted by our activities
ensure meaningful and transparent consultation with all stakeholders and attempt to integrate our corporate activities with local communities as good corporate citizens
ensure our activities are consistent with sound environmental management and conservation practices
provide meaningful opportunities for technology, training and capacity building within the host nation

B. Concerning Human Rights, we will:

support and promote the protection of international human rights within our sphere influence
not be complicit in human rights abuses

C. Concerning Business Conduct, we will:

not make illegal and improper payments and bribes and will refrain from participating in any corrupt business practices
comply with all application laws and conduct business activities in a transparent fashion
ensure contractor's, supplier's and agent's activities are consistent with these principles

D. Concerning Employees Rights and Health & Safety, we will:

ensure health and safety of workers is protected
strive for social justice and promote freedom of association and expression in the workplace
ensure consistency with universally accepted labour standards, including those related to exploitation of child labour

APPLICATION

The signators of this document are committed to implementation with their individual firms through the development of operational codes and practices that are consistent with the vision, beliefs, values and principles contained herein.

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