Foreign Affairs and International Development

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development met to discuss the role of Canada's ambassador to the United States. Mark Wiseman, the ambassador, gave an opening statement about his background and priorities, including strengthening the Canada-U.S. relationship and addressing trade issues. He apologized for an error where an invitation was sent out in English only. Committee members questioned Wiseman on various topics, including trade negotiations, tariffs, and his past statements on supply management. Several committee members questioned Ambassador Wiseman about the strategy for dealing with tariffs on steel, aluminum, and autos, with some expressing concern that Canada was not actively negotiating. Wiseman reiterated that Canada is ready to negotiate and is working to reduce uncertainty caused by U.S. trade policies. Members also raised concerns about the impact of these tariffs on Canadian businesses and the economy. Some committee members questioned Wiseman about his past views on supply management and his involvement with the Century Initiative, which aims to increase Canada's population. Wiseman stated that his personal views are irrelevant and that he is committed to representing the policies of the Canadian government. He also addressed concerns about an invitation to committee members that was sent only in English, calling it an unacceptable error. Steven Guilbeault introduced a motion to affirm the committee's commitment to official bilingualism and to invite the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs to discuss Global Affairs Canada's Official Languages policy. The committee discussed the importance of the Canada-U.S. relationship, including trade, defense, and cultural ties. Wiseman emphasized the need to diversify Canada's relationships while maintaining a strong connection with the United States. The committee agreed to schedule future meetings to discuss proposed law C-219 and to hold an informal meeting with the Kosovo deputy minister of foreign affairs.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development met to discuss Canada's Indo-Pacific strategy. The committee heard from Kai Ostwald, a professor at UBC, and Ari Van Assche, a professor at HEC Montréal. Ostwald highlighted that the Indo-Pacific region is economically and geopolitically important, but Canada has underinvested in the area, leading to deficits in knowledge, networks, and reputation. He suggested focusing on trade and security while also investing in people-to-people connections. Van Assche emphasized the need for Canada to diversify its trade to reduce overreliance on China and the United States. He proposed focusing on value chain positioning, prioritizing key sectors, and building strategic partnerships with countries aligned with Canada's economic security goals. Committee members asked about specific sectors to focus on, ways to lower barriers to trade, and concerns about forced labor in Chinese supply chains. The committee also heard from Stephen Nagy, a professor at International Christian University, and Cleo Paskal, a senior fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies. Nagy emphasized Canada's need to be actively involved in regional agreements, prevent security issues, and avoid the dominance of any single regional power like China. He suggested strengthening relationships with the United States and developing bilateral ties with Japan, South Korea, Vietnam, and Indonesia. Paskal focused on strategic geography, highlighting the importance of the Central Pacific and the need to counter corruption in island nations. She suggested Canada could provide legal support and expertise to combat corruption and build resilience in the region. Committee members discussed the importance of Taiwan, the Solomon Islands, and the potential for closing consulates in Auckland and Osaka. They also explored the role of climate change in the region and the need for Canada to balance economic prosperity with environmental concerns. The committee discussed the importance of a written foreign policy and whether the current strategy should be updated. The witnesses emphasized the need for Canada to be strategic in its approach, focusing on key partnerships and addressing corruption to maintain a free and open Indo-Pacific.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development met to discuss Canada's Indo-Pacific Strategy. Government officials from various departments, including Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development, National Defence, and the Canadian Armed Forces, provided updates on the strategy's progress and answered questions from committee members. The discussion covered topics such as trade diversification, security partnerships, and Canada's relationship with key countries in the region, including China and India. The officials emphasized the strategy's adaptability and its focus on advancing Canada's interests in the rapidly evolving Indo-Pacific region. Weldon Epp, Assistant Deputy Minister, Indo-Pacific, highlighted the economic importance of the Indo-Pacific region and Canada's efforts to strengthen trade and security partnerships. He mentioned increased ministerial visits, naval presence, and trade missions to the region. He also spoke about progress in renewing the bilateral relationship with India and engaging with China on areas of mutual interest. Michael Chong, a Conservative MP, questioned the witnesses on the timing of an updated Indo-Pacific strategy document and the status of a trade arrangement with Taiwan. Anita Vandenbeld, a Liberal MP, inquired about the link between open societies and security in the Indo-Pacific region, as well as Canada's engagement on human rights and women, peace, and security. Alexis Brunelle-Duceppe, a Bloc Québécois MP, raised concerns about the delay in signing a trade agreement with Taiwan and the government's approach to China. Lianne Rood, a Conservative MP, questioned the government's progress on the Indo-Pacific strategy and the role of Canadian energy exports in the region. Committee members expressed interest in various aspects of the strategy, including trade agreements, energy exports, and human rights. The officials provided updates on ongoing negotiations, partnerships, and initiatives in the region. The committee agreed to adopt budgets for the mandate of the Ambassador of Canada to the United States and for the review of Canada's Indo-Pacific strategy. The committee also agreed to replace an informal meeting with a delegation from South Africa (postponed) with a meeting with the deputy minister of foreign affairs of the Republic of Kosovo and his delegation.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development met to discuss the political transition in Syria. Witnesses from various organizations provided insights on the current situation, challenges, and opportunities for Canada to support the transition. The discussion covered topics such as the inclusion of minorities, women's participation, humanitarian aid, and the role of international actors. Noah Bonsey from the International Crisis Group highlighted the progress made in Syria's transition but also noted the challenges, including the need for greater inclusiveness and addressing humanitarian needs. Hisyar Ozsoy from the People's Democratic Party of Turkey emphasized the importance of decentralization and the inclusion of minorities for sustainable stability. Muzna Dureid from the Syrian Women's Political Movement advocated for Canada's direct engagement with Syrian authorities and support for an inclusive political transition. Ayman Al-Yassini from the Syrian Canadian Congress spoke about the need for Canada to designate a Damascus-based ambassador and embassy to work on the development of the private sector, trade, and consular services in the country. Tufail Khan from Islamic Relief Canada emphasized the importance of sustained humanitarian and development assistance. Dr. Anas Al-Kassem from the Union of Medical Care and Relief Organizations Canada focused on the need to invest in health care, infrastructure, and education to support Syria's recovery. The committee members raised questions about the safety of minorities, the involvement of government forces in violence, and the impact of regional conflicts on Syria's transition. Witnesses provided recommendations for Canada to support an inclusive and accountable transition, promote decentralization, and address humanitarian needs. The committee agreed to a one-meeting study of the main estimates and invite the deputy minister of foreign affairs and relevant officials from Global Affairs Canada.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development met to discuss the political transition happening in Syria. The committee heard from Gregory Galligan, Canada's ambassador to Lebanon and Syria, who spoke about the progress Syria has made in establishing a transitional government and rebuilding after years of conflict. He noted Canada has removed some barriers to engagement with Syria to allow for investment and trade, while also imposing sanctions on individuals involved in human rights abuses. Stefanie McCollum, director general of the Middle East, also spoke about the criteria Canada uses to evaluate the credibility of the transitional government. The committee also heard from expert witnesses Elliot Tepper, Laurence Deschamps-Laporte, and Khattar Abou Diab. Committee members questioned the witnesses about the safety and rights of ethnic and religious minorities in Syria, such as Alawites, Druze, Kurds, and Christians. They raised concerns about reports of violence and discrimination against these groups and asked what Canada is doing to ensure their protection. Witnesses discussed the importance of holding the Syrian government accountable for human rights abuses and ensuring that all communities are represented in the political process. They also discussed the role of Russia and Turkey in Syria and the impact of the regional conflict on the country's stability. Witnesses emphasized the need for a sustainable process for national reconciliation in Syria, including addressing past grievances and building trust between communities. They also highlighted the importance of international assistance to support Syria's economic recovery and political transition. Canada's unique position as a well-regarded and non-polarizing actor in the region was noted, with suggestions for Canada to focus on supporting institutions, justice, and women's rights. The committee agreed to continue studying the situation in Syria and to consider options for Canada to play a constructive role in the country's future.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development met to discuss the situation in Venezuela. Witnesses included experts from the UN Refugee Agency, the International Crisis Group, and energy policy specialists. The committee wanted to understand the current conditions in Venezuela, especially after the recent U.S. intervention and arrest of Nicolás Maduro. They also discussed the potential for a transition to democracy and the role of international actors like Canada. Kristin Halvorsen from the UNHCR talked about the refugee situation, noting that more people are now returning to Venezuela than leaving. She said that many Venezuelans abroad want to come home for family reasons and because they hope the economy will get better. Elizabeth Dickinson from the International Crisis Group spoke about security risks in Venezuela, especially from armed groups involved in illegal mining and trafficking. She noted that while the U.S. action removed Maduro, it hasn't changed the underlying power structure in the country. Robert Johnston, an energy expert, discussed the importance of Venezuela's oil sector and how its recovery is linked to global oil prices and U.S. policy. He said that increased oil production in Venezuela could affect Canada's oil exports. Daniel Di Martino, who grew up in Venezuela, described how socialism caused the country's economic crisis and supported the U.S. intervention. He urged Canada to push for free elections and the release of political prisoners. Committee members asked questions about the role of key political figures in a potential transition, the impact of U.S. policy on Venezuela's oil industry, and how Canada can best support the Venezuelan people. The committee agreed to hold an informal meeting with a delegation from the United States to continue discussing the situation. The next meeting will focus on Syria.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development met to discuss the situation in Venezuela following recent events. The committee wanted to understand what's happening on the ground and how Canada can help. Wendy Drukier, from the Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development, explained that Venezuela has been struggling with corruption and human rights issues, and that recent U.S. actions have led to a new, but still uncertain, situation. Stuart Savage, Canada's representative to the Organization of American States (OAS), talked about the OAS's role in keeping Venezuela on the international agenda. Committee members asked about Canada's position on the U.S. intervention, the possibility of restoring diplomatic relations with Venezuela, and the well-being of Venezuelan refugees. Drukier said Canada wants to see a peaceful, democratic transition in Venezuela, but didn't clearly state whether Canada approved of the U.S. operation. She also mentioned that Canada is monitoring the situation to see if it's safe for Canadian diplomats to return to Venezuela. Savage added that the OAS is ready to help with elections and human rights monitoring if Venezuela moves towards democracy. The committee also discussed the economic situation in Venezuela and the potential for Canadian businesses to get involved in rebuilding the country's oil sector. Members explored how Canada can support democracy and prevent corruption in Venezuela. Drukier noted that Canada hasn't changed its sanctions on Venezuelan officials and is working with international partners to address the situation. The committee agreed to continue monitoring the situation and explore ways to support a democratic transition in Venezuela.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development met to discuss the humanitarian situation in Cuba. Witnesses from various organizations testified about the severe economic and social crisis on the island, including shortages of food, medicine, and electricity. They argued that the crisis is primarily due to the Cuban government's mismanagement and repressive policies, not external factors like the U.S. embargo. Speakers highlighted the Cuban military's control over much of the economy and its prioritization of tourism over basic needs. They also discussed the lack of political freedoms and the imprisonment of dissidents. Kirenia Carbonell from the Cuban Canadians Coalition described the dire conditions in Cuba, emphasizing the government's use of hunger as a control mechanism. She recommended that Canada direct aid through independent faith-based and civil society channels and advocate for the release of political prisoners. Carolina Barrero Ferrer from Citizens and Freedom argued that Cuba is experiencing a structural crisis caused by a governance model that prioritizes the power of a military elite over the well-being of the population. She urged Canada to condition bilateral relationships on the protection of civil and political rights and to sanction officials responsible for human rights violations. John Suarez from the Center for a Free Cuba stated that the humanitarian crisis predates recent sanctions and is driven by the inefficiencies of Cuba's communist system. He called for an international humanitarian corridor to deliver aid directly to Cubans, bypassing the government. Yaxys Cires from the Cuban Observatory of Human Rights reported that a large percentage of the population lives in extreme poverty and struggles to access basic necessities. He proposed that Canada promote economic and political opening, deliver humanitarian support directly to the Cuban population, and press for reforms to the labor regime governing foreign investment. Committee members questioned the witnesses about the causes of the crisis, the impact of U.S. sanctions, and how Canada can best provide assistance to the Cuban people. Some members expressed concern about the effectiveness of channeling aid through UN agencies and suggested exploring alternative channels, such as faith-based organizations. There was discussion about whether Canada should impose targeted sanctions on Cuban officials responsible for human rights abuses. The committee did not make any specific decisions during the meeting. The discussion and witness testimonies will likely inform future policy recommendations regarding Canada's engagement with Cuba.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development met to discuss the humanitarian crisis in Cuba. The committee wanted to understand the situation and how Canada could help. Witnesses from Global Affairs Canada and the Cuban Ambassador to Canada spoke to the committee. Mark Richardson from Global Affairs Canada said that Canada is watching the situation closely, especially the safety of Canadians in Cuba and the impact on Cubans. He mentioned that Cuba declared a state of emergency and Canadian airlines stopped flights to Cuba for a bit. He also said that the U.S. embargo on Cuba makes things harder for Cuba. Lianne Rood, a committee member, asked why Canada doesn't give aid directly to the Cuban people instead of working with the Cuban government. The Cuban Ambassador, Rodrigo Malmierca Díaz, said that the U.S. economic blockade is causing a lot of problems in Cuba, like not having enough fuel for hospitals and food distribution. He said Cuba is open to talking with the U.S., but not if they are threatened. Steven Guilbeault, a committee member, asked about the condition of Cuba's healthcare system. The Ambassador said it's usually good, but the U.S. blockade is making it hard to get medicine and equipment. Committee members also discussed whether Canada should send oil to Cuba and if the U.S. embargo is making things worse. The committee approved a budget of $9,000 for the study on Cuba. They also agreed to meet with the head of the Global Fund later in March. The committee will meet again to continue discussing the situation in Cuba.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development met to discuss Canada's Arctic strategy. The meeting focused on the increasing economic and strategic importance of the Arctic and the growing threats to Canada's national security in the region. Key speakers included Paul Lynd, Assistant Director at the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS), and René Ouellette, Director General of Engagement at CSIS. They discussed how CSIS is working to protect Canada's Arctic sovereignty and security through cooperation with federal, indigenous, and territorial partners. They also spoke about the threats of espionage and foreign interference, particularly from Russia and China. Lynd and Ouellette explained that CSIS is focused on investigating activities in the Arctic that could threaten Canada's security, including espionage, sabotage, and foreign interference, especially through cyber means. They emphasized the importance of building relationships with Arctic communities and governments to gather information and enhance resilience against threats. They also mentioned that CSIS is sharing information with indigenous partners to support their decision-making related to resource development. Committee members questioned the witnesses about specific threats from Russia and China, including their attempts to gain a foothold in the Arctic through research vessels and economic activities. Lynd stated that China is a primary threat due to its strategic competition to control critical minerals and supply chains. He also mentioned that CSIS is providing advice to the government on economic security considerations related to trade engagements with China. The committee discussed the need for increased monitoring and protection of critical infrastructure in the Arctic, as well as the importance of collaboration with international partners to counter foreign threats. During the meeting, committee members also discussed the importance of working with indigenous communities and governments to protect them against various threats, including cyber threats. They explored ways to strengthen ties and improve information sharing with these communities. The committee also touched on the impact of climate change on the Arctic and its implications for national security. The committee agreed that the chair should send a response to his counterpart in China and inquire whether the sanctions against the Subcommittee on International Human Rights and certain members are still in place.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development met to discuss the Royal Canadian Navy's operations in the Taiwan Strait. The committee wanted to understand Canada's approach to maintaining stability and security in the region, especially given China's increasing military activity. Witnesses included Major-General Travis Morehen from the Department of National Defence, and Eric Laporte and Ryan Baerg from the Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development. Major-General Morehen explained that Canada sends three Royal Canadian Navy ships to the Indo-Pacific region each year as part of its Indo-Pacific Strategy. These ships conduct exercises with allies and transit through the Taiwan Strait, which is a key international shipping route. He emphasized that these transits are done according to international law and demonstrate Canada's commitment to a stable and peaceful region. He also noted that Canada does not notify China in advance of these transits, as they are considered international waters. Committee members asked about the risks involved in these operations, especially given China's opposition to foreign military presence in the Strait. They also questioned whether Canada's approach could be seen as provocative. Witnesses explained that they carefully assess the risks of each operation and consult with allies. They also engage in diplomatic discussions with China to explain Canada's position and maintain open lines of communication. The committee also discussed Canada's relationship with Taiwan and whether Canada should deepen economic ties with the island. Some members expressed concern that the government was hesitant to pursue a trade agreement with Taiwan for fear of angering China. Witnesses explained that Canada has a "One China Policy" that recognizes the People's Republic of China as the sole legitimate government of China, but that Canada also maintains unofficial relations with Taiwan. They said that Canada is committed to pursuing its national and economic interests in the region. The committee agreed to meet again to discuss future business. They will also discuss travel requests related to their study of Canada's foreign policy in the Indo-Pacific region.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development met to discuss proposed changes to the Export and Import Permits Act. The goal of the proposed law is to give the government more tools to protect Canada's economy from things like supply chain problems or economic pressure from other countries. Minister of Foreign Affairs Anita Anand said the changes would help Canada act quickly when facing global disruptions and protect Canadian jobs and access to important goods. She emphasized that these changes wouldn't create new rules right away but would allow the government to develop them in the future. She also spoke about Canada's support for human rights in Iran and Haiti. During the meeting, committee members asked the Minister about how the new measures would be used. Some members were concerned about the potential for the government to overreach or misuse these new powers. The Minister explained that any actions taken would require a careful review of the costs and benefits. She also said that the government is always planning for different scenarios and wants to be ready to protect Canada's economic security. Members also discussed whether the proposed law would help prevent products made with forced labor from entering Canada, and how the proposed law related to trade with China. Robert Brookfield, director general, sanctions and strategic export controls, from the Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development, provided more details about the proposed changes. He explained that the changes would allow the government to add items to the export and import control lists for economic security reasons. He said that this would give Canada more flexibility to respond to different situations. He also said that the government would consult with businesses and other groups before adding any items to the lists. The committee agreed to invite Canada's new ambassador to the United States, Mark Wiseman, to testify about Canada-U.S. relations.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development met to discuss Canada's Arctic strategy with a focus on security and sovereignty. Key witnesses included Premier R.J. Simpson of the Northwest Territories and Premier John Main of Nunavut. Both premiers emphasized that true Arctic sovereignty comes from investing in the people and communities of the North, not just military presence. They highlighted the need for infrastructure improvements like roads, housing, and reliable energy, as well as addressing issues like food insecurity and the legacy of colonialism. Premier Simpson stressed that the Arctic is now central to Canada's strategic future and called for action to match the government's words. He pointed out that the lack of infrastructure and high costs of doing business in the North are major barriers to development. Premier Main echoed these concerns, emphasizing the need to invest in human security by meeting the basic needs of Nunavut residents. He also cautioned against a short-term focus, advocating for sustained engagement and investment in the North. Committee members questioned the premiers on various topics, including infrastructure priorities, engagement with Indigenous governments, and the role of the Arctic Council. There was a consensus on the need for improved infrastructure and a more balanced approach to Arctic security that prioritizes the well-being of northern communities. The premiers expressed optimism about recent engagement with the federal government but stressed the importance of sustained commitment and collaboration.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development met to discuss Canada's strategy for engaging with Africa. The meeting featured testimony from Ambassador Ben Marc Diendéré, Canada’s special envoy for Africa, along with Ryan Clark and Susan Steffen from the Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development. Later, Lori Kerr, CEO of Development Finance Institute Canada (FinDev Canada), spoke about their investments in Africa. Ambassador Diendéré highlighted the importance of the Africa strategy in strengthening partnerships, promoting trade, and supporting the African diaspora. He mentioned Canada's involvement in initiatives like the Intra-African Trade Fair and the Africa Energy Forum. He emphasized the need for Canada to have "champions on the ground" to drive business opportunities and suggested that more interdepartmental coordination is needed to support Canadian businesses in Africa. Committee members questioned the witnesses on the effectiveness of Canadian aid, the role of blended finance, and the timing of the release of the Africa strategy. Ryan Clark explained that Canada's international assistance in Africa funds social and productive programs. He noted a shift towards using international assistance to spur economic growth and mobilize investment, including through blended finance. Lori Kerr discussed FinDev Canada's role in supporting private sector growth in Africa through financing, investment, and technical assistance. She highlighted their focus on climate action, gender equality, and market development, and mentioned the upcoming opening of a regional office in Cape Town. Committee members discussed the importance of gender equality, the challenges posed by security threats, and the need for Canada to compete with other foreign powers in Africa. There was also discussion about the UN's call for countries to budget 0.7% of their GDP to international assistance. Finally, the committee agreed to undertake a study of proposed law clauses related to foreign affairs and invite the Minister of Foreign Affairs to appear.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development met to discuss Canada's strategy for engaging with Africa. Witnesses from various organizations and universities shared their perspectives on how Canada can strengthen its relationships with African nations. Key topics included trade, investment, development assistance, and the importance of aligning Canada's policies with African priorities. Ndidi Nwuneli from the ONE Campaign emphasized that Africa presents significant opportunities for Canadian businesses and that Canada should increase its trade and investment on the continent. She suggested that Canada needs to provide affordable financing for entrepreneurs, promote value addition in African countries, and organize trade missions to Africa. Kate Higgins from Cooperation Canada highlighted the need for Canada to maintain its international assistance budget and address structural barriers to development, such as debt crises. She also stressed the importance of policy coherence across Canada's foreign policy tools. Stephen Brown, a professor at the University of Ottawa, expressed confusion about Canada's Africa strategy, questioning whether it represents a significant change from past approaches. He raised concerns about budget cuts and the impact on Canada's ability to support health and human rights initiatives in Africa. Chris Roberts, a political science instructor from the University of Calgary, urged Canada to focus on delivery, defense, and diversification in its Africa strategy. He also suggested reinstating a secretary of state for Africa to prioritize the relationship. Committee members questioned the witnesses on various aspects of Canada's Africa strategy, including how Canada can compete with other countries like China and Russia, the role of Canadian mining companies, and the importance of integrating trade and development. The committee acknowledged the need for Canada to be a reliable partner to African nations and to ensure that its policies are aligned with African priorities. No specific decisions were made during the meeting, but the discussion will likely inform the committee's recommendations to the government.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development met to discuss supplementary budget estimates for the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and Development, and the International Joint Commission. The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Anita Anand, spoke about Canada's foreign policy priorities, including economic resilience, defense, and core values like human rights and gender equality. She highlighted efforts to diversify trade, strengthen supply chains, and deepen partnerships with countries in Europe, Asia, and the Americas. The minister also addressed Canada's support for Ukraine and its focus on the Arctic region. Department officials were also present to answer questions. During the meeting, committee members questioned the minister on various topics. Ziad Aboultaif (Conservative) asked about Canadian-made rifles appearing in Sudan and whether the Prime Minister raised human rights concerns with the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Alexis Brunelle-Duceppe (Bloc Québécois) questioned the consistency of Canada's feminist foreign policy, given trade deals with countries that have poor human rights records. Shelby Kramp-Neuman (Conservative) inquired about the foreign influence transparency registry and the G7 Rapid Response Mechanism. Bill Blair (Liberal) asked how the budget allocations align with Canada's foreign policy priorities. The committee also heard from department officials, including Shirley Carruthers, Catherine Jobin, and Leslie Norton, who provided details on budget allocations, trade diversification strategies, and international assistance programs. They discussed the impact of budget cuts on international assistance and the department's efforts to maintain core services. Officials also addressed questions about specific grants, such as one to the Lebanese armed forces, and the criteria for determining departmental result indicators. The committee voted on the supplementary estimates, approving them on division. The committee also scheduled an informal meeting with members of the Irish Parliament's foreign affairs and trade committee.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development met to discuss Canada's response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, with a focus on the abduction and re-education of Ukrainian children. Witnesses included Mykola Kuleba from Save Ukraine and Caitlin Howarth from the Yale School of Public Health Humanitarian Research Lab. Mykola Kuleba described Russia's systematic abduction, indoctrination, and militarization of Ukrainian children, emphasizing the urgent need to rescue these children from military camps and forced assimilation. He highlighted Save Ukraine's efforts in rescuing over 1,000 children and called for continued international support, particularly from Canada, to combat this child trafficking and re-education program. Caitlin Howarth presented findings from the Yale HRL, documenting a large-scale, state-organized program of forced transfer, coerced adoption, militarization, and ideological re-education of Ukrainian children. She emphasized the need for a centralized registry for these children and called for continued funding to support investigations and data collection efforts. She noted that Russia is deliberately manipulating and obscuring the total number of Ukrainian children abducted since the start of the full-scale invasion in February 2022. Ihor Michalchyshyn and Orest Zakydalsky from the Ukrainian Canadian Congress also testified, urging Canada to strengthen defense and commercial ties with Ukraine, seize frozen Russian assets, and increase sanctions on Russia. They stressed the importance of Ukraine being at the table in any peace negotiations and condemned the leaked U.S. peace plan as unacceptable.