What was one of the major focuses of Canada’s immigration policy in the late 20th century?

The emphasis on family reunification in Canada’s immigration policy during the late 20th century reflects a broader commitment to maintaining familial ties among immigrants. This policy aimed to allow Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their family members from abroad to come and live in Canada. The underlying principle was that families should not be separated by borders, and by fostering close family connections, it contributed to the social fabric and cohesion of communities within Canada.

This approach also recognized the importance of emotional and social support that family members provide to each other, which can be particularly crucial for newcomers adjusting to a new country. By prioritizing family reunification, Canada sought to enhance the integration of immigrants into Canadian society, allowing them to establish a solid support network.

Options such as trade agreements, tourism promotion, and environmental controls do not characterize the main focus of immigration policies during this period. While they may relate to Canada’s overall policy framework, they do not directly impact the human aspect of immigration and the importance of keeping families together, which was central to Canada's approach at that time.