I would like to begin by acknowledging that we are gathered on the traditional territory of the Wendat, the Anishnaabeg, Haudenosaunee, Métis and the Mississaugas of the New Credit First Nation.
Let me start by thanking Finland for hosting us here so very warmly in Rovaniemi. Canadians will always feel very much at home in a hockey rink. And I want to thank you very much, Timo [Soini, Finland’s Minister of Foreign and European Affairs], and your entire team for the excellent work you’ve done chairing the Arctic Council for the past two years. And let me start by saying that Canada is very pleased to support the excellent chairman statement.
"We’re here to update you on the restricted access to China’s market for Canadian canola. We know that maintaining markets for our high-quality canola means more money in the pockets of our farmers and supports good, middle-class jobs for Canadian farm families..."
Canada has a proud tradition of international leadership. Whether confronting climate change, terrorism and radicalization, or international conflicts, the need for effective Canadian multilateral leadership has never been greater than it is today.
"The Maduro regime has violated Venezuela’s constitutional law and created an economic and political crisis that threatens the lives of millions of Venezuelans. We are all well aware of the challenge ahead...."
Dearest friends, distinguished guests, I am honoured to be here today, with so many inspiring women and alongside so many of you who understand the importance of investing in women and of doing everything we must do to advance our rights.