moved for leave to introduce Bill C-315, An Act respecting a framework to strengthen Canada-Taiwan relations.
Mr. Speaker, it is an honour to rise to introduce the Canada-Taiwan relations framework act.
Canada does not have a formal relationship with Taiwan and that complicates our interactions. As such, the legislation seeks to establish an orderly mechanism by which to conduct relations by establishing a framework for strengthening Canada-Taiwan relations, including in respect of economic, cultural and legal affairs.
Taiwan is one of Canada's largest trading partners. We have strong people-to-people links and share common values. It is a vibrant democracy and one of the world's top 20 economies. It is time that Canada's relations with Taiwan reflect the reality that Taiwan is today. This legislation is an important step towards that.
(Motions deemed adopted, bill read the first time and printed)