| Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada
| speeches
Mr. Chairperson, members of the Permanent Forum, before I begin, I want to acknowledge that we are on the traditional territory of the Lenape people. I would also like to acknowledge Elders Willy Littlechild, Sally Webster and Oliver Boulet, who are part of our delegation and who are here with us representing as Elders from Canada's three distinct indigenous peoples, First Nations, Inuit people and the Métis Nation.
I am asked to bring to a close a conference that I did not attend, which is always a little frustrating; I am sure it has been a success and that I would have learned a lot. I look forward to reading the report my spies will prepare. The conference and this evening's reception are among many activities that celebrate our 40th anniversary: it was 40 years ago that Europe opened a diplomatic mission in Ottawa-the third of its kind after Washington and Tokyo. Since then, Canada has had only to congratulate itself for its partnership with its European friends. The same is certainly true for many other countries around the world.
Good evening, distinguished guests and colleagues. I am thrilled to be here on behalf of the Government of Canada, and in support of Jordan's ambition to champion women's rights through our collective engagement this week and in the months ahead.
You will understand that I am unable today to present the definitive architecture of the Government of Canada's international security policy. That policy will be developed by the government and the Prime Minister in the comings weeks and months.