As we say, is it the dog wagging the tail or is it the tail wagging the dog?
Colleague, Canada is meeting its commitments in Africa. Once again, we doubled our annual aid to Africa to $2.1 billion. We are working in partnership with reform-minded African governments. We're seeking results in terms of poverty reduction, improved education and health, and of course more democracy. We're also working with Africa and others to address key regional security and governance crises. I point out what we're doing in Sudan, the Congo, as well as Zimbabwe.
You're probably referring to your colleague's article this morning--and I see a smile on your face--who indicated that not only did this government but the previous government.... I can say, though, that this government has doubled its aid to Africa.
I had the opportunity of meeting two weeks ago with the ambassadors from Africa to Canada. We had a very, very good exchange
I would even say that our relationship could be described as being fruitful.
In the coming years, I foresee us continuing these efforts, particularly with respect to aid. You talked about coordination. I can assure and re-assure you by saying that we have exceptional coordination, exemplary coordination even, between my department and that of my colleague, Ms. Oda.