There are a number of reasons that it is in Canada's interest to reinforce our partnerships with countries in Africa and to increasingly have those relationships on a peer-to-peer basis. This is indeed what African stakeholders are seeking, and it's the result of consultations we've undertaken in Canada and in Africa.
I'll break down a little better what is in the Canadian interest and say that, in terms of the Canadian strategy, we have a good history to build on. We have had a presence in Africa for a long time, and a very strong international assistance presence. As I mentioned, with the economic growth in Africa there are increasingly other opportunities for Canada and Canadians, especially in the medium term, when it comes to economic co-operation.
One predominant reason it's in Canadians' interest is that it is a clear way for Canada and the international community to address climate change. I mentioned in my speech that Africa has carbon capture potential. It has 25% of global diversity and 60% of the best solar resources that exist. If Canada partners and engages with Africa—including, for example, in green energy—this is a win-win solution for all of us, for Canada and for Africa.
Another is that partnering with African countries in order to maintain influence will be in Canada's interest. We already know that organizations multilaterally, such as the BRICS and the G20, are growing in influence. There are international organizations that are shifting, and you can even see at the UN Security Council that there are groups that are voting certain ways, and so for Canada to forge strong bilateral relationships with African countries will help us to build like-minded views.
Another is that there is an opportunity for us to foster even more Canadian prosperity. I have mentioned that it is the fastest-growing economy. The African Continental Free Trade Area provides potential for stronger inter-African trade, which will also create opportunities for Canadian businesses. The potential economic market is of $2 trillion to $3 trillion. Another, as I mentioned, are mining assets, so Canada has an interest in co-operation economically.
Security and stability are also very important to Canada and something we can focus on. There is the risk of terrorism. There's also a risk to Canadians who are travelling in Africa. There is an important reason for Canada to engage with the international community and with African partners to help them address some of their challenges with insecurity, and we can do so in a number of ways. Examples include partnering through defence and security, and providing them with international assistance, as some of that insecurity arises from the lack of social safety nets for poorer populations, for example, in the north of some western African countries.
Finally, we have people-to-people ties—