KENORA – POLITICS – Over the past few weeks Canadian news sources have been filled with international news. The attacks in Nice, the attempted coup in Turkey and the racial tensions in the United States, have been a few of the headlines grabbing people’s attention. Unfortunately, most of this is not good news. While some may argue that now is the time to close our doors and limit our conversations with other countries, I believe the opposite approach is needed.
As Chair of the Foreign Affairs Committee and ParlAmericas, the Canadian Section, I am proud to represent Canada on an international scale. It is our government’s belief that instead of shying away from difficult conversations, now is the time to try to work respectfully with other countries. Obviously, this can be challenging and may draw some criticism. However, we strongly believe that dialogue it crucial in either repairing strained relationships or enhancing existing ones.
While these issues may seem distant enough, Canada’s relationship with other countries impacts everyone economically and socially, whether it’s in rural Canada, like Northwestern Ontario, or urban centres.
A significant part of our country’s economy is exports and trade relationships. The ability to trade with other countries is crucial. Whether we’re exporting wood products, petroleum, car parts, or other manufactured goods, it’s necessary we have export or import trade agreements that benefit the citizens of Canada as much as possible. These relationships need to be in place to ensure that our exporters and manufacturers are doing business on a level playing field.
Canada is well-known for its peacekeeping and military capabilities and this government is taking a strong stand overseas. Recently, we committed to deploying soldiers as part of a NATO plan to counter fears of Russian aggression. At the same time, we’re looking into ways we can support United Nations peacekeeping missions to help ensure the safety of civilians who rely on countries like Canada to protect them.
Through conversation and cooperation internationally, together we can move forward both economically and socially. I look forward to discussing these issues with you as I travel throughout the riding this summer.
Bob Nault MP
Kenora
