Mr. Speaker, February 12 marked the annual Chinese New Year celebration hosted by the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office, one of the best-attended events on Parliament Hill.
The relationship between Canada and Taiwan has never been stronger.
This Conservative government waived the visa requirement for people from Taiwan in November 2010, paving the way for increased visits by Taiwan's law-abiding tourists and students, who are welcome contributors to the Canadian fabric.
This year we have seen great progress in several commercial agreements between Canada and Taiwan, including one that greatly increases air traffic. Other discussions have good momentum concerning tax, trade, and investment.
I am proud to state that after several years of trying, Canadian producers will now be able to sell bone-in beef to Taiwan.
Also, last year Taiwan's parliament created a sister group to our very active Canada-Taiwan Parliamentary Friendship Group, which I have the honour to lead. Our group last year paved the way to revive the Terry Fox Run in Taiwan.
I ask all members to stand and join me to salute the friendship of Canadians with a free and democratic people, the people of Taiwan.