Foreign Affairs and International Development

This meeting of the Foreign Affairs and International Development committee was about reviewing a proposed law (Bill C-219) that aims to change how Canada handles foreign affairs, sanctions, and human rights. Committee members went through the proposed law section by section, discussing and voting on various changes. A key discussion point was how much information the government should make public about human rights cases. Robert Oliphant, a Liberal committee member, argued that the government needs flexibility and discretion to decide when to speak publicly, as sometimes going public can put people's lives in danger. He also opposed expanding the definition of "family member" for sanctions, stating that existing immigration laws already cover this and that a broader definition could create problems for government operations. Officials from Immigration and Foreign Affairs supported this view, explaining the complexities of international law and existing provisions. Conservative members, including James Bezan and Michael Chong, pushed for more public reporting on human rights issues, citing witnesses who said public naming helps victims and holds bad actors accountable. They also wanted to broaden the definition of family members for sanctions to prevent people from hiding money. Another significant debate was about renaming the Special Economic Measures Act to include "Sergei Magnitsky Law" and whether to ban state-controlled broadcasters from countries that commit serious international wrongs, like CGTN. Mr. Chong argued that public airwaves should not be used by such entities, while Mr. Oliphant raised concerns about censorship and the CRTC's expertise. The committee voted on many changes. Most of the Liberal-proposed changes were accepted, while many Conservative ones were not. Several sections of the proposed law were removed entirely. The committee decided to put off decisions on the final name of the proposed law and a few other sections until a future meeting, which will take place on Tuesday at 5:30.

The committee met to discuss the security situation in the Balkans, focusing on the Republic of Kosovo and its path to joining European organizations. The meeting began with some procedural discussions about meeting times and attendance. The Ambassador of the Republic of Kosovo to Canada, His Excellency Adriatik Kryeziu, spoke about Kosovo's strong partnership with Canada and its commitment to peace and democracy. He highlighted that the security in the region is fragile because Serbia refuses to recognize Kosovo's independence and supports groups that try to undermine Kosovo's government. He mentioned a serious attack in September 2023 by an armed group from Serbia and asked Canada to urge Serbia to hand over those responsible. The Ambassador also raised concerns about the rights of ethnic Albanians in southern Serbia and Serbia's close ties with Russia and China, which he sees as a threat to stability. He emphasized Kosovo's desire to join NATO and the European Union as quickly as possible. Committee members asked the Ambassador about Kosovo's journey to the European Union, its relationship with China, and how Canada could further help. The Ambassador explained that joining the European Union is closely tied to talks with Serbia, and Kosovo is careful about China's growing influence. He also pointed out Canada's existing support in defence and security, and the potential for more economic cooperation, especially in mining. Later, three other experts – Dr. Muhamet Brajshori, Dr. Gëzim Visoka, and Jos Boonstra – joined the discussion. They agreed that the Balkans remain vulnerable due to old disagreements, outside interference, and slow progress in joining Europe. They stressed that Canada should actively support Kosovo's NATO membership and increase its involvement in the region. They also talked about challenges like corruption and political disagreements within Kosovo and the wider area. The experts noted that major obstacles for Kosovo joining the European Union include the five EU countries that don't recognize it and Serbia's unwillingness to cooperate. They also discussed new ideas from Germany and France for a step-by-step process for countries to join the European Union, which could be a positive change. All speakers agreed that the risk of a larger conflict in the Balkans is serious and should not be ignored, especially with changing international priorities. At the end of the meeting, the committee approved budgets for future briefings and adopted a report on democracy and human rights defenders. The committee's next meeting will focus on a proposed law, C-219.

This committee meeting focused on the security situation in the Balkans region, with committee members hearing from government officials and experts about the challenges and progress in countries like Kosovo, Serbia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina. The discussion highlighted ongoing issues and potential ways Canada could help. The first group of speakers included Canadian ambassadors and a director general from the Department of Foreign Affairs. Gallit Dobner, a director general, explained that while the Balkans are more stable than in the past, problems like ethnic disputes, weak governments, crime, and outside influences (especially from Russia) still exist. She pointed out ongoing tensions between Kosovo and Serbia, political issues in Kosovo, and fragility in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Michelle Cameron, Ambassador to Serbia, discussed efforts to help Serbia reduce its reliance on Russian energy and concerns about Chinese debt in Montenegro. Committee members asked about foreign interference from Russia and China, Canada's diplomatic presence in the region, and the effectiveness of international organizations. The second group of speakers included experts: Valerie Percival, a professor, Krenare Recaj, a Ph.D. candidate, and Maria Berishaj-Sylejmani, a gender equality specialist. Professor Percival emphasized that Canada's foreign policy is most effective when it has a clear purpose, like protecting people, and uses many tools, not just military strength. She suggested Canada should do more in the region. Krenare Recaj argued that linking Kosovo's future in Europe to its relationship with Serbia is not working and that Canada should push to separate these issues. Maria Berishaj-Sylejmani highlighted the importance of women's involvement in peace and security efforts, noting that women are still under-represented in decision-making and security roles, and stressed the need to fight against false information and foreign influence. No major new policies or proposed laws were decided during the meeting. However, committee members did approve budgets for various studies, including one on the security situation in the Balkans and another for a proposed law. They also approved expenses for a future meeting with the Speaker of Greenland's Parliament. The discussions identified potential next steps for Canada, such as increasing its diplomatic presence in the region, supporting women's peace and security initiatives, and exploring ways to counter foreign interference and false information.

The committee met to talk about a proposed law, Bill C-219, which aims to make Canada's rules for punishing human rights abusers and corrupt foreign officials much stronger. This proposed law would change several existing laws, including the one known as the Sergei Magnitsky Law, to better target those who commit serious human rights violations. Sir William Browder, who leads a global campaign for justice, explained that the proposed law would rename Canada's main sanctions law after Sergei Magnitsky, a Russian lawyer who died in prison after exposing corruption. This change would make it clear why Canada uses these punishments. He also said the law would punish family members of sanctioned people and deal with foreign governments targeting people living in Canada. Vladimir Kara-Murza, a former political prisoner from Russia, shared his personal story, saying that public support and sanctions helped him get released. He strongly believes that publicly reporting on political prisoners gives them hope and can save lives. Marcus Kolga, an expert on misinformation, also supported the proposed law. He highlighted how it would help stop foreign governments from harassing people in Canada and prevent state-controlled news channels, like those from Russia and China, from broadcasting harmful information. Kate McInnes, a human rights lawyer, agreed with the law's goals but suggested changes to make sure it can catch people who secretly work for foreign governments to carry out harassment. She also worried that the law might punish family members without enough proof, which could go against fair legal practices. Committee members discussed if publicly naming political prisoners always helps, with Mr. Kara-Murza stressing its importance. They also talked about how well Canada's current sanctions are working and the need for better enforcement. The committee will meet again to discuss a different topic, the security situation in the Balkans, and also plans an informal meeting with the President of the Parliament of Greenland.

The committee met to review Canada's Indo-Pacific strategy, discussing how to update it for a changing world and strengthen Canada's role in the region. Three experts, Dr. Scott Simon from the University of Ottawa, Jonathan Berkshire Miller from the Macdonald-Laurier Institute, and Vina Nadjibulla from the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada, shared their views. They all agreed that the strategy, launched in 2022, needs to be refreshed because the global situation has changed significantly, pointing to events like the war in Ukraine, tensions in the Middle East, and the potential impact of a new U.S. presidency. They emphasized that Canada needs a clearer and firmer approach to China, describing it as a "disruptive actor" and stressing that economic decisions cannot be separated from national security concerns. The speakers highlighted the importance of supporting Taiwan's resilience, including completing a trade agreement, continuing naval ship passages through the Taiwan Strait, and maintaining parliamentary visits, despite China's objections. They also recommended strengthening ties with democratic partners like Japan, Australia, and the Philippines, and working together to push back against China's aggressive actions and unfair trade practices. Concerns were raised about importing Chinese electric vehicles due to potential security risks and links to forced labor. The experts suggested that the updated strategy should focus on fewer priorities, have more dedicated funding, and clearly measure its success. They advised Canada to leverage its strengths in areas like energy, artificial intelligence, and critical minerals to become a more influential partner. They also stressed the need to continue addressing foreign interference in Canada and to use Canada's diverse communities and universities to build stronger connections in the Indo-Pacific region.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development met to discuss a proposed law that would change several existing laws related to human rights and sanctions. The proposed law aims to strengthen Canada's ability to respond to human rights violations and corruption around the world. Witnesses from various government departments, including Global Affairs Canada and the Department of Canadian Heritage, shared their perspectives on the proposed changes. Robert Brookfield from Global Affairs Canada raised concerns about some parts of the proposed law. He worried that publishing details about individual human rights defenders could put them at risk. He also suggested that the proposed law's definition of "family member" for visa restrictions might be too narrow. Angelica Liao-Moroz, also from Global Affairs Canada, explained the department's preference for the term "human rights defenders" over "prisoners of conscience," saying it's a broader, more inclusive term. Charlene Budnisky from Canadian Heritage discussed concerns about how the proposed law might affect freedom of expression for broadcasters. Brandon Silver from the Raoul Wallenberg Centre for Human Rights spoke in favor of the proposed law. He emphasized the importance of shining a light on prisoners of conscience and expanding visa bans to immediate family members of those sanctioned. Committee members discussed potential amendments to the proposed law, including clarifying definitions and ensuring the safety of individuals and their families. No final decisions were made during the meeting, but committee members plan to continue discussing the proposed law and consider potential changes.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development met to discuss a proposed law, Bill C-219, which aims to strengthen Canada's ability to address corruption and human rights violations around the world. James Bezan, a Member of Parliament, introduced the proposed law and explained its various components, including requiring annual reports on international human rights, defining "transnational repression" to sanction foreign nationals who commit it in Canada, banning family members of sanctioned individuals, and revoking licenses for media outlets spreading propaganda from sanctioned entities. He emphasized the need to close loopholes in existing legislation and protect Canadian values and diaspora communities. During the meeting, committee members asked questions and raised concerns about the proposed law. Ziad Aboultaif discussed how the proposed law could address foreign interference and protect Canadian communities from intimidation. Robert Oliphant acknowledged the government's support for the proposed law's intentions but suggested amendments to ensure it aligns with government operations and protects human rights defenders. Alexis Brunelle-Duceppe pointed out discrepancies between the English and French versions of the proposed law and raised concerns about the potential impact on freedom of expression and privacy. Other committee members, including Tamara Kronis, Anita Vandenbeld, Grant Jackson, and Braedon Clark, also raised questions and offered suggestions for improvement. Discussions covered topics such as asset forfeiture timelines, the definition of "prisoners of conscience," and potential unintended consequences of the proposed law. Bezan expressed openness to working with all parliamentarians to make reasonable amendments that would strengthen the proposed law. The committee did not make any final decisions during the meeting, but it was clear that there is broad support for the goals of the proposed law. The next steps will likely involve further discussion and debate, as well as potential amendments to address the concerns raised by committee members.

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.