Members, in our second hour today we are continuing our study of Canada's mission in Afghanistan.
We have with us this afternoon His Excellency Omar Samad, Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan to Canada.
We want to thank you, Mr. Ambassador, for taking the time and making the effort to be with us here today. This committee, as you know, the foreign affairs and international development committee, is concerned about both parts of the undertaking that Canada has in Afghanistan, not only the military perspective but also the developmental perspective.
We look forward to your comments. You're always welcome here and we're pleased to have you.
I should also mention that you've brought your wife with you today--we welcome her--and a group from the embassy.
The time is yours, and then we'll move into the first round of questioning.
Your Excellency.