I call the meeting back to order.
I'd like to make a few comments for the benefit of the witnesses and members.
Today's meeting is taking place in a hybrid format. Members are attending in person in the room and remotely by using the Zoom application.
Please wait until I recognize you by name before speaking. For those participating by video conference, click on the microphone icon to activate your mic, and please mute yourself when you're not speaking.
There is interpretation. Those on Zoom have the choice at the bottom of your screen of either floor, English or French. Those in the room can use the earpiece and select the desired channel.
This is a reminder that all comments should be addressed through the chair. For members in the room, if you wish to speak, raise your hand. Of course, we have the questioning order here, so that will work very well.
Now I'd like to welcome our witnesses on the matter of Canada's Indo-Pacific strategy.
Appearing by video conference are Dominique Caouette, professor and chair, Asian and Indo-Pacific studies, Université de Montréal, and Claude Vaillancourt, Association pour la Taxation des Transactions financières et pour l’Action Citoyenne. We also have, from the Canada West Foundation, Carlo Dade, director, Centre for Trade and Trade Infrastructure.
Each of you will have five minutes to make an opening comment.
Monsieur Caouette, we will begin with you.