Thank you.
Thanks for the introduction.
I am glad to be here in Prince Edward Island.
I want to start by congratulating you for all your hard work and leadership.
We are here today to celebrate a joyful event: the anniversary of the Declaration of Philippine Independence. But, alas, we must start on a tragic note.
Let me start by saying how much I like the title of this conference: because indeed in my past work, it has often felt like advocacy was an unspeakable word. In fact, I fought for the basic rights of shelter and food for those among us who are most unseen; the folks who live at the margins and are frequently excluded from even the most essential of human needs.
I am pleased to be here today on behalf of Canada's Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Honourable Stéphane Dion.
To begin, please let me express to John Kerry and the U.S. delegation the Government of Canada's sympathy and solidarity regarding the terrible crime in Orlando.
| Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
| speeches
I thought since it was coming towards the end of Parliament it might be time to do a bit of a balance sheet, a balance sheet to show what we have already done in terms of immigration and what we intend to do in the future, and also to tell you why I think immigration is so important. I think that it's really more important than ever now that we have an aging population.
I am grateful for the opportunity to participate in this year's Dialogue. This is my first time attending the Shargri-La Dialogue since our Government has been in place, and I can assure you it will not be my last. Canada is here and ready to explore new ways to cooperate with our friends and partners in the Asia Pacific.