Mr. Waterhouse, Mr. Leuprecht, thank you for joining us this evening.
Mr. Leuprecht, we had an opportunity to engage in a discussion just a few days ago.
Mr. Waterhouse, as a former Quebec minister of public security, I thought it was very interesting to hear you say that Quebec claims to be able to do things on its own. Once the situation improves and we can meet for a coffee, I would like us to discuss this.
Gentlemen, I am completely fascinated by the apprehensions expressed about a power like China in terms of cybersecurity. According to Greg Austin, who leads the Cyber, Space and Future Conflict Programme at the International Institute for Strategic Studies, China's cyber defence capacities are clearly inferior to those of most western powers, including Canada. According to him, Canada ranks ninth out of the 155 countries evaluated, while China ranks 27th.
Why is China such a threat to Canada?
In light of this very interesting information, I am wondering why Canada and other western powers are not an equivalent or higher cybersecurity threat to China.
My question is for both witnesses.