Good afternoon.
Pursuant to Standing Order 122, we are having a briefing on the situation in Afghanistan.
We have as witnesses today, from Project Ploughshares, Mr. Ernie Regehr, senior policy adviser--welcome, Mr. Regehr--and through video conference from the University of Calgary, Mr. David Bercuson, professor, director of the Centre for Military and Strategic Studies. Welcome also, Mr. Bercuson.
I want to point out that we also have with us today a group from the Teachers' Institute on Canadian Parliamentary Democracy sitting in our committee. Welcome to you also. We're very pleased to have you with us this afternoon.
We'll start with Mr. Regehr. You have 10 minutes for your introductory remarks. Please, Mr. Regehr.